Dubai Studio City (DSC) is a dedicated free zone for media, entertainment, and creative businesses in Dubai. Established to support film, television, music, digital media, and advertising industries, DSC offers a state-of-the-art infrastructure, specialized business licenses, and a thriving ecosystem for companies and startups. Located strategically near Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and just 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport, DSC provides easy access to local and global markets.

For investors exploring other creative and business hubs, options such as Dubai Media City Free Zone and Dubai Internet City Free Zone also offer excellent opportunities.

At RIZ & MONA Consultancy, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs and businesses set up across Dubai free zones, providing complete support from choosing the right license to final approval.

Benefits of Setting Up in Dubai Studio City

Strategic Location

Strategic hub for global media and production.

100% Foreign Ownership

Full control with 100% ownership rights.

Media Ecosystem

Studios, sound stages, and creative spaces.

Industry Collaboration

Access to clusters, events, and networking.

Flexible Licensing

Permits for freelancers, startups, and firms.

Startup Support

Coworking spaces and resources for growth.

Types of Licenses Available in Dubai Studio City

Production License

This license lets you run film, TV, music, and digital content production.

Service License

This license is for media consultancy, events, marketing, and support services.

Freelancer License

This license allows independent creators and media professionals to work solo.

Commercial License

This license covers trading of media equipment and content rights.

Steps for Business Setup in Dubai Studio City

one-rizmona

Select License Type

Determine the type of business licence you need, whether production, service, commercial, or freelance, based on the nature of your media, entertainment, or creative activities.

2 - rizmona

Reserve Trade Name

Submit your preferred company name to the DSC Authority for approval, ensuring it meets regulatory guidelines and is unique within the free zone.

3 - rizmona

Submit Required Documentation

Provide passport copies, a business plan, No Objection Certificate (if applicable), and proof of office, studio, or coworking space within DSC.

4 - rizmona

Office or Studio Allocation 

Lease a physical office, production studio, or coworking space approved by DSC to meet free zone requirements.

null

License Issuance

Upon verification, the DSC Authority issues the trade license, officially allowing the company to operate in Dubai Studio City.

6

Registration & Visas 

Complete company registration with the UAE Ministry of Economy if necessary, and apply for employee visas to legally hire staff within the free zone.

Start your Dubai Studio City Free Zone business hassle-free today!

Get a Free Consultation

Costs of Business Setup in Dubai Studio City

Item Cost (AED) Notes
Trade Name Reservation 620 Valid for 3 months
Initial Approval / Application 1,020 Required before license issuance
Business / Trade License 15,000 – 25,000 Depends on license type (service, production, commercial, freelance)
Office Space / Studio Space 15,000 – 50,000 Annual lease, varies by size and type
Visa Processing 3,000 – 5,000 per visa Includes entry permit and Emirates ID
Registration / Documentation Fees 1,000 – 2,500 Covers registration and administrative costs

Required Documents for Business Setup in Dubai Studio City Free Zone

Entity Type Required Documents
Free Zone Company – Passports of shareholders/managers – Business plan – NOC (if applicable) – Proof of office/studio in DSC – DSC application form
Branch of UAE Company – Parent company license & MOA – Board resolution – Passports of branch manager/shareholders
Freelance License – Passport & visa – CV/portfolio – NOC (if applicable) – DSC application form

Business Activities in Dubai Studio City

Dubai Studio City supports a wide range of media, entertainment, and creative business activities to foster innovation and production excellence:

  • Film & TV Production – Studios, sound stages, post-production, and digital content creation.
  • Broadcasting & Media Services – Television/radio broadcasting, media consultancy, and content distribution.
  • Animation & VFX – Animation studios, visual effects, motion graphics, and CGI production.
  • Music & Performing Arts – Music production, recording studios, live events, and talent management.
  • Event & Entertainment Services – Film festivals, concerts, live shows, and corporate/entertainment events.
  • Advertising & Marketing Media – Creative agencies, digital marketing, campaigns, and multimedia production.
  • Freelance & Individual Services – Independent media, content creation, or production support professionals.
Rizmona Consultancy 15 Years Experience

Dubai Studio City Free Zone Business Setup Consultants

How Riz & Mona Consultancy Can Help?

Riz & Mona Consultancy is renowned as one of the top business setup consultants in Dubai, with over 15 years of experience facilitating a wide range of businesses throughout the UAE. Our deep connections with government officials and key authorities, combined with our extensive expertise in consultancy, streamline the process of establishing your business in Dubai. Additionally, we offer comprehensive financial, legal, and corporate services to support our clients throughout their business endeavors.

We are here to provide comprehensive support for your Business setup in Dubai Studio City Free Zone, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!

10000 Happy Clients Rizmona

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can foreigners own 100% of a company in DSC?

Yes, DSC allows full foreign ownership for most business types, including production, service, and media licenses.
DSC supports media, film, TV, digital production, post-production, creative services, and related commercial activities.
Typically, 2–4 weeks, depending on license type and completeness of documents.
Yes, DSC offers flexible options, including office, studio, or co-working spaces for eligible licenses.
Yes, DSC provides access to state-of-the-art production facilities, networking with industry peers, and support from Dubai government initiatives.
Yes, companies in DSC can sponsor employees depending on office space and license type.
No, DSC licenses are valid within the free zone. Separate permissions are required to operate on the mainland.