Dubai Media City (DMC) was launched in 2001 and has evolved into the region’s leading media hub. Home to major global names like CNN, BBC, MBC, CNBC, and Forbes, DMC provides a collaborative and innovation-driven environment specifically built for media professionals and organizations.

As part of the TECOM Group, DMC offers full Free Zone benefits, including 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified setup processes, making it the preferred choice for media startups, freelancers, and multinational corporations.

Why Set Up in Dubai Media City?

Established Media Cluster
DMC is part of Dubai’s Technology and Media Free Zone and hosts hundreds of global, regional, and local media brands. The environment fosters creativity, networking, and fast growth.

Free Zone Advantages

  • 100% foreign ownership

  • Full repatriation of capital and profits

  • 50-year exemption from personal, corporate, and income tax

  • No customs duties on goods and services

  • Flexible visa options and dedicated government services

Business-Friendly Setup

  • Streamlined company registration process

  • Transparent business laws and Free Zone governance

  • Access to government services including licensing, visa, and postal facilities

  • Flexible office and infrastructure options

Who Can Set Up in Dubai Media City?

Dubai Media City welcomes a wide variety of sectors, including:

  • Advertising and Communications

  • Marketing Services

  • Media Support Services

  • Event Management and Support

  • Media Consultancy

  • Digital and New Media

  • Non-profit Media Associations

  • Freelancers in creative, media, and content roles

Market Opportunity in the MENA Region

According to PricewaterhouseCoopers, the MENA region holds the highest global growth index in the Entertainment & Media sector, projected at a 16.5% Compound Annual Growth Rate over the next five years. Dubai Media City provides strategic access to high-growth markets such as India and Turkey, offering a competitive advantage over North America and Europe.

The UAE continues to lead the MENA region in advertising spend, with newspapers, television, and digital platforms accounting for the majority. The rise of internet advertising has further created opportunities for startups and digital marketing firms within DMC.

Business Setup in Dubai Media City

You can set up your business as either:
Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)

  • Separate legal entity

  • Requires minimum paid-up capital of AED 50,000

  • For broadcasting activities (TV or Radio), the capital requirement is AED 2,500,000

Branch Company

  • Legally dependent on a parent company (UAE or foreign)

  • No capital requirement

Company Setup Process

Step 1: Submit the following:

  • FZ-LLC application form

  • Business plan template

  • License application form

Step 2: Provide required legal documents:

  • Shareholder resolution (for individuals or corporations)

  • Board resolution to open a branch (if applicable)

  • Specimen signature forms (Registry Identification Code form)

  • Passport copies and personal documents of shareholders

Launch Your Media Company With Our Help

We provide complete support for setting up your business in Dubai Media City. From paperwork to government approvals, licensing, and visa processing, we handle everything so you can focus on launching and growing your brand in one of the most dynamic media markets in the world.