Dubai Media City (DMC)
Media, advertising, broadcasting — Dubai, UAE
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Overview
Dubai Media City (DMC) is the Arab world's largest media business community, hosting global broadcasters, publishers, and advertising agencies. CNN, BBC, Reuters, and major regional networks operate from DMC. It offers licenses for media production, publishing, advertising, public relations, and digital content creation.
Business Activities (243)
The following 243 business activities are available in DMC, organized by category.
Consulting (39)
Design (13)
E-Commerce (10)
Education (22)
Freelance (16)
Media (27)
Professional Services (21)
Trading (95)
| Full Name | Dubai Media City | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abbreviation | DMC | ||||||
| Emirate | Dubai | ||||||
| Specialty | Media, advertising, broadcasting | ||||||
| Notable | CNN, BBC, Reuters offices | ||||||
| Website | dmc.ae |
| License Fee (from) | AED 15,000 |
|---|---|
| Visa Cost Range | AED 5,000 - AED 7,000 |
| Total Year 1 (from) | AED 25,000 |
| Total Year 1 (to) | AED 50,000 |
License Packages & Costs
| Package | License Type | License Fee | Visa Cost (pp) | Visas | Office | Total Year 1 | Renewal Year 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DMC Freelance Permit | Freelance | AED 7,500 | AED 3,300 | 1 | No Office | AED 10,800 | AED 10,800 |
| DMC Company License | Commercial | AED 15,000 | AED 3,300 | 3 | Flexi Desk | AED 39,900 | AED 28,300 |
| DMC Premium Office | Professional | AED 25,000 | AED 3,300 | 6 | Private Office | AED 94,800 | AED 73,300 |
Other Free Zones in Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to set up a company in DMC?
The cheapest package at DMC starts from AED 10,800 for Year 1, which includes the license fee, visa allocation, and office solution. Packages range up to AED 94,800 depending on office type and visa quota.
What business activities can I do in DMC?
DMC offers 243 licensed business activities across 8 categories, including Consulting, Design, E-Commerce, Education. Each activity requires a specific license type (commercial, professional, or industrial).
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in DMC?
Yes. All UAE free zones, including DMC, allow 100% foreign ownership. You do not need a local UAE partner or sponsor to set up your company.
How long does it take to get a license in DMC?
Most free zones complete the licensing process within 3-7 business days once all documents are submitted. DMC may offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
What visas can I get through DMC?
Visa costs at DMC range from AED 5,000 to AED 7,000 per person. You can sponsor yourself, employees, and dependents through your company. Investor visas (3 years) and employment visas (2-3 years) are the most common options.
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