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Dubai Studio City

The Middle East's Premier Media and Entertainment Hub

Established

2005

Companies

Over 1,200 companies

Location

Dubai

About Dubai Studio City

Dubai Studio City is a specialized free zone dedicated to media, entertainment, and creative industries. It serves as the region's leading hub for film production, television, music, advertising, and digital content creation, offering world-class facilities and comprehensive support services for creative professionals and businesses.

Governing Authority:Dubai Development Authority (DDA)
Official Website

Interested in setting up in Dubai Studio City?

Let's discuss your requirements and find the best solution for your business.

Key Industries

Film Production
Television Broadcasting
Music Production
Advertising
Digital Media
Animation
Gaming
Post-Production Services

Ideal For

Production CompaniesMedia AgenciesCreative StudiosBroadcasting CompaniesDigital Content CreatorsEntertainment Businesses

License Types & Costs

Media License

For companies engaged in media production, broadcasting, and content creation activities

Starting from

18,000

AED

Activities Allowed

Film production, TV production, radio broadcasting, digital media creation

Service License

For companies providing support services to the media and entertainment industry

Starting from

15,000

AED

Activities Allowed

Equipment rental, post-production services, talent management, event management

Commercial License

For trading activities related to media and entertainment equipment and products

Starting from

20,000

AED

Activities Allowed

Trading in media equipment, distribution of content, retail of entertainment products

Processing Time

5-7 working days

Annual Renewal

Same as initial license fee

Validity

1 year, renewable

Need help choosing the right license type?

Our experts can guide you through the licensing options and help you select the best fit.

Visa Information

Available for shareholders, directors, and employees of licensed companies

1-2 visas

Flexi Desk

2-4 visas

Private Office

4-10 visas

Custom Office

6-15 visas

Warehouse with Office

Investor VisaEmployee VisaDependent VisaDomestic Helper Visa
Processing:7-10 working days
Golden Visa Eligible

Estimated Costs

License Fee
From 15,000 AED
Visa (per person)
~4,500 AED
Office Space
From 12,000 AED/year
Estimated First Year Total
35,000 - 85,000 AED
Approximate

Costs vary based on license type, office space, and number of visas required. Additional fees may apply for specific services and facilities.

Want a detailed cost breakdown for your business?

Request a personalized quote tailored to your specific business needs.

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Specialized infrastructure for media and entertainment industry
  • World-class production facilities and sound stages
  • Strong government support for creative industries
  • Access to regional and international markets
  • Comprehensive ecosystem of service providers
  • Strategic location with excellent connectivity
  • 100% foreign ownership allowed
  • Tax-free environment with full profit repatriation

Considerations

  • Limited to media and entertainment activities only
  • Higher setup costs compared to general free zones
  • Competitive market with many established players
  • Seasonal fluctuations in production activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Dubai Studio City?

100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required
Zero corporate tax on qualifying income
Full repatriation of capital and profits
No currency or exchange restrictions
World-class infrastructure and connectivity
Streamlined business registration process

Best For

  • Media Production Companies
  • Creative Agencies
  • Entertainment Businesses
  • Digital Content Creators
  • Broadcasting Companies

Not Ideal For

  • General Trading Companies
  • Manufacturing Businesses
  • Financial Services
  • Heavy Industrial Operations
  • Non-creative Service Providers

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