Dubai Media City Company Setup
The Arab world's media capital: broadcasters, agencies, publishers and creators.
- Ownership
- 100% foreign
- Setup time
- 2 to 4 weeks
- Licence cost
- from AED 15,000
- Visas
- Tied to office or package
Dubai Media City concentrated the region's media industry into one campus: global broadcasters, news agencies, advertising networks, PR firms and production houses operate side by side, with Dubai Studio City and Production City handling the heavier production work nearby.
A DMC licence carries weight with government media accreditation, event permits and press credentials, which matters for businesses that publish, broadcast or represent brands publicly. Freelancers and small studios can enter through TECOM's talent packages without leasing full offices.
Who Dubai Media City suits
- Broadcasters and publishers
- Advertising, PR and comms agencies
- Production companies and studios
- Media freelancers via talent permits
Why choose Dubai Media City
- The region's established media cluster
- Recognised licence for press accreditation and permits
- Freelancer and talent packages available
- Adjacent to Internet City and the Marina talent pool
- TECOM campus services and event venues
Dubai Media City frequently asked questions
What does a Dubai Media City licence cost?
Company licences start around AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 plus workspace; freelancer permits run lower. Costs scale with office needs, and we scope the right entry tier for your operation.
Do I need a DMC licence to work in media in Dubai?
Not strictly, cheaper zones license media activities too, but DMC accreditation smooths press credentials, filming permits and government media relations in ways budget licences do not. For public-facing media brands it remains the credible address.
Can freelancers join Dubai Media City?
Yes, TECOM's freelance permit covers writers, directors, producers, designers and similar roles with access to the campus and a residence visa, at a fraction of full company-licence cost.
JRE analysis
Advisory Journal- 2026-10-04UAE Free Zone 0% Tax Qualification: What the Rules Actually RequireFree zone companies risk losing their 0% corporate tax rate if they fail to meet the Qualifying Free Zone Person criteria.
- 2026-09-05UAE's 15% Global Minimum Tax: What Free Zone Companies Must Do Before the Clock Runs OutThe UAE's QDMTT regime means free zone entities in large MNC groups may owe a 15% top-up tax, ending a long-held structural advantage.
- 2026-08-02Dubai Media City Briefing: What Recent Activity Around the Zone Tells OperatorsA look at what recent news around Dubai Media City signals for businesses based in or considering the free zone.
Latest Dubai Media City news
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