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Dubai · UAE Free Zone

Dubai Media City

The Regional Hub for Media, Marketing and Creative Industries

Established2001
Companies1,500+
Area2.8 million square feet
LocationDubai
Official website

Zone at a glance

Cost efficiency
Setup speed
Flexibility

Relative rating across UAE free zones, scored out of five.

Overview

About Dubai Media City

Dubai Media City is a tax-free business community dedicated to media, marketing, advertising, broadcasting, publishing, music, film, new media, and information agencies. Established as part of TECOM Group, it serves as the regional hub for media and creative industries, hosting over 1,500 companies including global media giants and innovative startups.

Governing Authority:TECOM Group

Location & Connectivity

Nearest Airport

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

25 km away

Address

Dubai Media City, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE

Total Area

2.8 million square feet

Nearby Landmarks

Dubai MarinaPalm JumeirahDubai Internet CityAmerican University of DubaiKnowledge Village

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Sectors

Key Industries

Media Production
Broadcasting
Publishing
Advertising
Digital Marketing
Film Production
Music Production
New Media

Ideal For

Media CompaniesCreative AgenciesContent CreatorsBroadcasting CompaniesDigital Marketing FirmsFilm Production HousesPublishing CompaniesAdvertising Agencies

Licensing

License Types & Costs

Media License

For media production, broadcasting, publishing, and content creation activities

Starting from
18,500AED

Activities Allowed

Broadcasting, film production, publishing, content creation, media distribution

Creative License

For creative services including advertising, design, and marketing agencies

Starting from
16,500AED

Activities Allowed

Advertising, graphic design, digital marketing, creative consulting, branding services

Technology License

For technology-enabled media and digital services

Starting from
17,500AED

Activities Allowed

Digital media platforms, software development for media, tech-enabled creative services

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.

Residency

Visa Information

Available for shareholders, employees, and dependents of licensed companies

3 visas

Flexi Desk

6 visas

Office Space (up to 200 sq ft)

12 visas

Office Space (201-500 sq ft)

Unlimited based on space

Office Space (500+ sq ft)

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

Investment

Estimated Costs

License Fee
From 16,500 AED
Visa (per person)
~4,500 AED
Office Space
From 12,000 AED/year
Estimated First Year Total
From 33,000 AED
Approximate, starting estimate

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

Want a detailed cost breakdown for your business?

Request a personalized quote tailored to your specific business needs.

Assessment

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Specialized ecosystem for media and creative industries
  • Access to state-of-the-art production facilities and studios
  • Strong networking opportunities with industry professionals
  • 100% foreign ownership with no local partner required
  • Tax-free environment with full profit repatriation
  • Strategic location near Dubai Marina and key business districts
  • Comprehensive business support services
  • Access to regional and international markets
  • Flexible office space options for different business sizes

Considerations

  • Higher costs compared to some other Dubai free zones
  • Limited to media and creative industry activities only
  • Competitive market with many established players
  • Parking can be challenging during peak hours

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Advantages

Why Choose Dubai Media 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 Companies
  • Creative Agencies
  • Content Creators
  • Digital Marketing Firms
  • Startups in Creative Industries

Not Ideal For

  • Manufacturing Companies
  • Traditional Trading Businesses
  • Financial Services
  • Heavy Industry
  • Non-Media Technology Companies

Last reviewed: December 2025. Figures are indicative and confirmed in a tailored quote.

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