Establishment of a company in the media makers area

The Media Makers Zone is a media free zone located in the heart of one of the world’s fastest growing media markets with attractive economic benefits for businesses such as licensing services, easy business set-up, 100% company ownership in a stable environment. It is a place where some of the biggest names in the industry call home and the perfect location for your business, large or small, to grow and thrive. This article explains how to establish a company in the Media Makers Free Zone, which clears all procedures from Itqan Company, which is one of the best leading companies in the field of establishing companies and investing in Dubai.

Establishing a company in the media makers area

Establishing a company in the Media Makers Free Zone with the help of Itqan Company is an ideal option for investors wishing to enter the growing media market in Dubai. Itqan Company, with its extensive experience in the field of business management and company establishment, provides comprehensive support to entrepreneurs by providing specialized professional advice, selecting appropriate business activities, and facilitating legal and administrative procedures. Thanks to its distinguished services, investors can benefit from the many benefits that the Media Creators Zone offers, such as tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, and advanced infrastructure, enabling them to focus their efforts on innovation and creativity in their media fields.

Region Media Authority

The Media Zone Authority established a free media zone in Abu Dhabi, pursuant to Law No. (12) of 2007 regarding the establishment of the Media Zone Authority, in order to consolidate Abu Dhabi’s position in the field of creating Arabic media content. The Media Zone Authority is the body responsible for setting and implementing regulations, policies and organizational plans for the management and work of the free zone. The free zone provides attractive financial incentives for companies and allows full foreign ownership within an effective and clear regulatory framework. Prominent names in the world of media have opened branches within the Free Media Zone, such as the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), CNN, the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the Financial Times newspaper, and others.

Establishing a company in the media free zone

The Regulatory Affairs Department of the Media Zone Authority supervises the establishment, registration and licensing of companies operating in the free zone. There are three ways to establish a company in the free zone. The investor can establish a free zone company with limited liability, establish a branch of one of the existing companies, or be licensed as an independent employee. Establishing a company in the Dubai Media Free Zone (Dubai Media City) provides many advantages to investors and companies in the media and creative production sectors. Dubai Media City was established as part of the emirate’s efforts to enhance the media and creative sector and provide a supportive environment for business growth and development. Below are the basic steps to establish a company in the media free zone:

Basic steps to establish a company in the media free zone

1. Choosing a Business: Determine the right business for your media company, such as television production, publishing, digital media, or public relations.
2. Determine the legal form: Choose the appropriate legal form for the company, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a branch of a foreign company, or a sole proprietorship.
3. Company Name: Choose an appropriate name for your company and ensure it matches the naming laws in Dubai Media City.
4. Submit a license application: Submit a license application to the Dubai Media Free Zone Authority. The application includes submitting a completed application form, along with the required documents.
5. Initial approval: After submitting the necessary documents, you will obtain initial approval from the Media Free Zone Authority.
6. Office Rental: Find a suitable office or commercial space within Dubai Media City. The area provides various offices and work spaces to meet the needs of companies.
7. Completing the licensing procedures: After obtaining the initial approval and renting the office, complete the remaining licensing procedures. Additional documents or licensing fees may be required.
8. Obtaining the final license: After completing all required procedures, you will obtain the final license that allows you to start your business operations in the media free zone.
9. Registration with government agencies: Register your company with the relevant government agencies, such as the Dubai Health Authority and the Social Insurance Fund, if necessary.
10. Open a bank account: Open a business bank account in the name of the company to facilitate financial operations.

Documents required to establish a company in the free zone

Establishing a company in the free zone requires providing a set of documents necessary to complete the process legally and effectively. These documents may vary slightly depending on the type of business and the specific free zone, but in general the required documents include the following:

1. Establishment application form: Fill out the company establishment application form available at the free zone authority.
2. Copy of passport: Provide a copy of a valid passport for all shareholders and directors.
3. Personal photographs: Passport size photographs of all shareholders and directors.
4. Business plan: Submitting a detailed business plan that explains the nature of the business activity, goals, and future plans of the company.
5. Proof of Address: Provide proof of address such as a recent utility bill or lease for current residence.
6. CV: Provide a CV for all shareholders and directors showing their professional and educational backgrounds.
7. Board of Directors’ decision (for branches and parent companies): Submitting the Board of Directors’ decision to the parent company to open a branch in the free zone.
8. Company Memorandum and Articles of Association: Submit a copy of the company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association if it is a parent or partner company.
9. Commercial license: Submit a copy of the current commercial license of the parent company, if it exists.
10. No-objection letter: If one of the partners is residing in the UAE, a no-objection letter may be required from the current sponsor.
11. Signing the lease agreement: Signing a lease contract for an office or work space in the free zone.
12. Registration fees: Pay the required registration fees and licensing fees.
13. Additional Documentation: Some free zones may require additional documentation based on the type of business activity, such as special permits or approvals from regulatory authorities.
    Once you submit all the required documents and pay the fees, the application will be reviewed by the free zone authority, and upon approval, the commercial license will be issued and you can start doing your business.

Advantages of establishing a company in the media free zone

Establishing a company in a media free zone (such as Dubai Media City) offers many advantages that make it an attractive option for investors and entrepreneurs in the media space. Here are some key advantages:

1. 100% Foreign Ownership: Media free zones allow foreign investors to own 100% companies without the need for a local partner.
2. Tax exemptions: Companies in media free zones enjoy full tax exemptions on income and profits for a certain renewable period.
3. Freedom to transfer funds: Free zones allow complete freedom to transfer funds and profits outside the Emirates without restrictions.
4. Exemption from customs duties: Companies in free zones are exempt from customs duties on import and export.
5. Advanced infrastructure: Media free zones provide advanced infrastructure that includes modern offices, production studios, and advanced technological services to support media businesses.
6. Ease of procedures: Media free zones feature simple and quick procedures for establishing companies, allowing businesses to start quickly and efficiently.
7. Business cluster: Media free zones provide an integrated business environment that brings together different media companies, which enhances opportunities for cooperation and partnerships between companies.
8. Flexible work environment: Media free zones provide flexibility in labor and residency laws, making it easier for companies to attract global talent and expertise.
9. Integrated services: Media free zones provide integrated services that include administrative and legal support, visa and residency services, in addition to consulting services.
10. Strategic location: Media free zones are located in strategic locations close to major business centers, airports, and ports, making them easily accessible.
    These advantages make establishing a company in the Media Free Zone an excellent option for investors wishing to enter the media market in the Emirates and benefit from the supportive environment and the many benefits available.

How can you establish a company in the free zone?

Establishing companies in the free zones in Dubai is much easier than establishing a company inside Dubai, as it can be 100% owned by any nationality, and the presence of a partner or sponsor who is a citizen of the UAE is not required, as the company is registered as a free zone establishment or it is a company belonging to The free zone or a branch or representative office in the free zone in Dubai. In this case, it is possible for the main company to be outside the Emirates, and it is not required to be inside the Emirates. The companies located within the free zone are regulated through the authority responsible for the free zone, which is the one that issues any licenses to the company. This depends on the location of the free zone and the activity it carries out. The type of license issued by the responsible authority varies according to the commercial activity. A company can be established in the free zone by following some steps, including:

• Choose the company’s location
• Agreeing on the trade name, as it is the name that distinguishes one company from another.
• Obtaining the company’s business license.
• Obtaining initial approval to start work.
• Commercial license registration.
• Complete the requirements for a commercial license and obtain it.

Details of establishing a company in the free zone

Request advice on company formation procedures, international taxation, company structuring, asset protection or wealth management guidance.
After this stage, we will send a quote for approval and upon approval, we will send an invoice for payment. We will begin work as described below after receiving payment.

1. Reserve and approve the trade name
2. Gaining legal status and initial approval
3. Renting a commercial facility (e.g. shop, office, warehouse)
4. Drafting agreements and legal requests
5. Documentation, acquiring legal status, and submitting a final approval request
6. Follow up and receive the commercial license from the Jumeirah Lake Towers authorities
7. Company seal
8. Meet the person responsible for opening the bank account
9. However, the new facilities aim to achieve the strategic objectives of the free zone in contributing to strengthening the country’s economy by providing solutions
10. Integrated plays a fundamental role in enhancing investment activity and motivating investors to establish their businesses and strive to expand their investments, including:
11. It is in line with the efforts aimed at achieving the “Dubai Plan 2021” and other government plans that aim to move to the post-oil phase by supporting economic diversification policies.

Types of companies in the free zone

Here is a table showing the types of companies that can be established in free zones in the UAE:

Establishing a company in the free zone

The UAE is characterized by the presence of more than 40 free zones, in addition to some new ones being established. Therefore, establishing a company in the free zone is considered one of the difficult matters facing investors, as it is difficult to choose between many regions. For this reason, our company, through its extensive experience in business management, helps many investors choose the appropriate free zone for their business activity. It also helps in establishing and establishing the company in the free zone in the shortest time and at the lowest costs.

Our work is in establishing companies

The company establishing a company in the free zone works to carry out many important works related to businessmen and investors. Among the works carried out by the company are:

1. The company works to establish companies and equip them with the best equipment. It also takes care to choose the best places in which to establish companies.
2. Establishing offices, furnishing them, and offering them for rent. Working to complete all required procedures related to opening companies.
3. Dealing with multiple parties and paying fees.
4. Registration of trade names in the competent authority.
5. Registration of commercial licenses.

In conclusion, establishing companies in the free zone is a strategic step that allows investors and entrepreneurs to benefit from a wide range of competitive advantages. These regions provide an ideal environment for growth and innovation thanks to their advanced infrastructure, tax exemptions, and complete freedom of foreign ownership. Choosing a media free zone to establish your company guarantees you access to a wide network of companies and talents in the media sector, which enhances opportunities for cooperation and creativity. With administrative facilities and simplified procedures, entrepreneurs can start their businesses quickly and efficiently, enabling them to focus on achieving their vision and goals. Establishing your company in the Media Free Zone is not only an investment in the present, but it is also an investment in a brighter and more creative future.

Frequently asked questions about establishing companies in the free zone