Abu Dhabi Media Zone is one of the leading destinations for the media and entertainment sector in the United Arab Emirates. Located in the heart of the capital, Abu Dhabi, this zone provides an integrated and innovative environment that supports the growth and development of companies operating in the media sector. The zone was established to attract media companies and creatives from all over the world, providing them with a distinguished working environment that allows them to make the most of the opportunities available in the media industry.
Abu Dhabi Free Zone is a media makers zone with a strategic location that connects it to the markets of the Middle East and North Africa, making it an ideal platform to reach a wide audience. The zone provides advanced infrastructure that includes filming studios, production facilities, modern control centers, in addition to fully equipped offices, which contributes to facilitating media production operations and facilitating cooperation between companies and workers in this sector.
Companies operating in this zone enjoy many benefits, including tax exemptions, flexibility in repatriating profits, and full foreign ownership, allowing them to focus on their creativity and expand their businesses without hindrance. In addition, the zone provides a suitable environment to support innovation and development in the media industry, through incentive programs and strong networks with key players in the market.
In short, the Media Makers Zone Free Zone is a strategic starting point for any company wishing to take advantage of the many opportunities offered by the media industry in the region, and enhance its competitiveness in the global market.

Media Zone Authority
The Media Zone Authority – Abu Dhabi, also known as the Media Makers Zone, is one of the leading institutions supporting and developing the media and production sector in the United Arab Emirates. The Authority was established with the aim of creating an ideal environment for creativity and innovation in the field of media and entertainment, providing a comprehensive range of services and modern infrastructure that contribute to enhancing the growth of companies and facilitating media production operations.
Strategically located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the Media Zone Authority is an important point of contact between regional and global markets. The Authority offers world-class facilities including state-of-the-art filming studios, production control centres and offices equipped with the latest technology, helping companies deliver their projects to the highest quality standards. The Authority also provides a wide network of support services, such as legal and business advice, in addition to training programmes and workshops aimed at enhancing the skills of media professionals.
One of the most prominent advantages of the Media Zone Authority is the facilitation of licensing and compliance procedures, as the Authority provides a comprehensive and simplified solution for registering companies and providing the necessary licenses, which contributes to accelerating the establishment and operation processes. Companies in the Authority are also granted tax benefits, including exemption from taxes on profits and customs duties, which enhances the attractiveness of the region as an investment destination.
Furthermore, the Authority seeks to support innovation and renewal by organizing interactive events and conferences, which contribute to building an integrated media community and enhance opportunities for cooperation and partnership between regional and international companies. Thanks to these initiatives, the Media Zone Authority in Abu Dhabi remains a vital and attractive center for investment in the media sector, providing an ideal platform for growth and creativity in this field.
Establishing a company in the free media zone
Establishing a company in the Dubai Media Free Zone allows companies to operate in an environment that encourages creativity and innovation in the media industry. Here are the general steps to establish a company in the Dubai Media Free Zone:
- Choose the type of company: Select the type of company you want to establish, such as a limited company or a partnership.
- Choosing a business activity: Choose the company’s activity carefully, making sure it complies with the laws and requirements of the free media zone.
- Determine the trade name: Choose an appropriate trade name and ensure that it complies with local regulations.
- Determine Capital: Determine the capital required for the company and determine the path to financing it.
- Submitting the application: Submit the company establishment application and fill out the required forms with the Free Media Zone authorities.
- Obtain the necessary permits: Obtain the necessary permits and licenses from the area authorities, such as a business license and an activity permit.
- Open a bank account: Open a bank account in the name of the company and deposit the required capital.
- Residence and Work Visas: Apply for residence and work visas for foreign employees if required.
- Office Establishment: Establish a company office in the media free zone, ensuring compliance with all local regulations.
- Tax Registration: Register the company for tax and comply with all tax obligations.
Documents required to establish a company in the free media zone
Establishing a company in the Abu Dhabi Media Makers Zone Free Zone requires submitting a set of documents and papers that vary slightly depending on the type of company and business activity. However, in general, the required papers include the following:
- Establishment application form: Complete the establishment application form submitted by the Free Media Zone Administration.
- Copies of Passports: Color copies of passports of all founders, directors and partners.
- Headshots: Recent headshots of founders and directors, usually with a white background.
- Residence Visas: A copy of the residence visas (if available) of the founders or key employees.
- Lease Contract: A lease contract for the company’s headquarters within the free media zone. The contract must be signed and approved.
- Articles of Association and Incorporation Agreement: A document that includes the company’s articles of association and incorporation agreement, which defines the company’s legal structure, objectives, and the rights and duties of the members.
- Business Plan: A business plan that outlines the business activity, business strategy, future goals, and projected funding.
- Commercial Register or Certificate of Registration (if available): Copies of any commercial register or certificate of registration for existing companies if the company is a branch of an existing company.
- Financial Statements: Some jurisdictions may require financial statements showing the sources of funding and the financial capacity of the founders.
- Media activity license: A document proving that the company has obtained the necessary license to practice media activity, if there are specific requirements.
- Personal identification documents: Documents proving the identity of the founders and directors, such as a national ID card or driver’s license.
- Legal Power of Attorney: If there is an agent or legal representative acting on behalf of the founders, a signed legal power of attorney must be provided.
Etqan Company Services for Establishing a Company in the Media Makers Zone
Itqan Company provides a comprehensive range of services for establishing companies in the Abu Dhabi Media Free Zone, specifically in the Media Makers Zone. These services include:
- Initial Consultations: Providing initial consultations to help clients understand the options available and determine the best legal structure and type of company for them.
- Company Registration and Licensing: Assistance in submitting company registration applications and obtaining the necessary licenses to practice media activity. This service includes preparing and submitting all required documents to the relevant authorities.
- Preparing legal documents: Preparing and drafting the legal documents necessary to establish the company, such as the incorporation agreement, articles of association, and other legal contracts.
- Choosing a company name: Assistance in choosing a suitable trade name for the company and submitting name approval requests to the relevant authorities.
- Rental and employment procedures: Facilitating the procedures for signing a lease contract for the company’s headquarters within the free media zone, providing support in the procedures for employing workers, and facilitating obtaining work and residence visas.
- Opening a Bank Account: Providing support and assistance in opening a business bank account for the company in a local bank.
- Tax Exemptions and Licenses: Providing information and assistance in obtaining tax exemptions and other licenses related to media activity.
- Administrative Support Services: Providing administrative and procedural support services such as license renewals, legal amendments to the company structure, and annual licensing procedures.
- Startup Support: Providing support services to start-ups, including advice on growth and expansion strategies.
- Translation and Notarization Services: Providing legal translation and notarization services to ensure that documents comply with the required legal standards.
- Guidance and Training: Providing guidance and training to founders and employees on the systems and procedures in place in the free zone.
In conclusion of our article about the Media Makers Zone in the Abu Dhabi Free Zone , we see that this zone represents a distinct starting point for innovation and development in the media industry. The Media Makers Zone is considered one of the most prominent destinations for establishing companies in this sector, thanks to the stimulating business environment and advanced facilities it provides.
The Media Makers Zone offers a range of exceptional benefits that make it an attractive destination for investors and media professionals. The most prominent of these benefits are tax and customs exemptions that contribute to reducing operating costs and enhancing profitability. In addition, the advanced infrastructure and modern facilities, including studios equipped with the latest technology, provide an ideal environment for creativity and media production.
The region is also a hub for networking and business partnerships, bringing together leading media companies and support service providers, creating vast opportunities for collaboration and development. The region also offers easy access to global markets thanks to its strategic location and advanced logistics services.
Moreover, government support and continued interest in developing the media sector enhances the ability of companies to innovate and grow. The facilities provided in licensing and business establishment procedures contribute to accelerating the process of starting a business and providing a suitable environment for success.
Top Frequently Asked Questions About Abu Dhabi Free Zone Media Makers Zone
What is the Media Makers Zone in Abu Dhabi?
Media Makers Zone is a free zone dedicated to supporting and developing the media and entertainment industry in Abu Dhabi, offering a unique business environment and advanced facilities for companies in this sector.
What are the advantages of establishing a company in the Media Makers Zone?
The zone offers tax and customs exemptions, a modern business environment, government support, easy access to international markets, and advanced infrastructure including specialized media studios and facilities.
What types of companies can be established in the Media Makers Zone?
Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), sole proprietorships, professional corporations, or branches of international companies can be established. Activities include media production, broadcasting, digital marketing, and other media and entertainment related activities.
How long does it take to set up a company in the Media Makers Zone?
The company formation process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month, depending on the speed of completion of the required documents, procedures and approvals.
Does the Media Maker Zone provide support for startups?
Yes, the region provides support to startups through support and mentoring programs, as well as facilitating access to funding and business networks.