Dubai Studio City (DSC)
DSC is a Dubai-based free zone with packages starting from AED 38,540, supporting up to 10 visa allocations, and moderate banking access. Dubai Studio City (DSC) is TECOM/DDA's specialized hub for film, TV, broadcasting (including streaming), and production services. Many DSC segments follow the AED 15,000 licence tier, but broadcast network categories can be AED 25,000-40,000, so activity selection is the key cost driver.
From
AED 38,540
Established
2005
Companies
0
Max Visas
10
Banking
Moderate
DSC Packages & Pricing
| Package | License | Visas | Office | Year 1 Total | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FZ-LLC Starter (0 Visa) | AED 18,540 | 0 | Flexi Desk | AED 38,540 | AED 35,020 |
| FZ-LLC + Flexi Desk (1 Visa) | AED 18,540 | 1 | Flexi Desk | AED 47,120 | AED 38,040 |
| FZ-LLC + Dedicated Desk (2 Visas) | AED 18,540 | 2 | Dedicated Desk | AED 61,680 | AED 47,040 |
| FZ-LLC + Private Office (4 Visas) | AED 18,540 | 4 | Private Office | AED 126,800 | AED 101,040 |
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Clear segment-based fees: AED 15,000 for many production segments, AED 25,000-40,000 for broadcast network tiers
- UAE MOET describes DSC as dedicated to television, radio, film and related production ecosystem
- Licensing covers end-to-end media workflows: production, support services, digital content, music & entertainment
- Published DDA registration timeline: 10 working days provisional approval + 2 working days registration
- Multiple sources converge on AED ~15,000 licence starting point for production segments
- axs customer care centre in DSC for visa and licensing workflow support
Watch out for
- Cost variability is high: broadcasting network categories can be AED 40,000/year before registration and office
- Studio-grade space and production facilities are quote-based and can far exceed basic flexi desk pricing
- Banking friction higher than generic zones — media/broadcasting activities trigger extra compliance checks
- Agent 'all-in' quotes can differ from authority fee components and your actual lease
- Freelancer pathway can be confusing — confirm whether you need a freelancer permit or full company licence
Visa Information
Max Quota
10 visas
Processing Time
12 days
Renewal Cost
AED 5,560
Every 2 years
Dependent Visa
AED 5,560
Available Visa Types
Visa Cost Breakdown
Employee Visa
AED 5,560
Investor Visa
AED 5,560
Medical Standard
AED 450
Medical VIP
AED 850
Emirates ID Typing
AED 390
DDA publishes 10 working days provisional approval + 2 working days registration for FZ-LLC. Visa processing adds time for medical and Emirates ID steps.
Banking
Partner Banks
Expect 3-8 weeks for media/broadcasting profiles due to detailed KYC: client contracts, content/source-of-funds explanation, and evidence of physical lease. Lean creative agencies (non-broadcast) may see 2-6 weeks.
Features
Mainland Trading
Physical Office Required
Dual License Allowed
Crypto Friendly
Shared Ownership
Free Zone to Mainland
Online Portal
Co-working Available
Audit Required
Share Capital Requirement
Unspecified (activity-dependent; typically not required to be deposited publicly)
Special Ecosystems
Location
Recent Developments
- February 2026: UAE Ministry of Economy & Tourism updated the official DSC free-zone profile
- May 2024: DSC highlighted ecosystem activity around CABSAT 2024 with original content production metrics
- January 2021: DDA Decision No. (1) of 2021 published DSC licence categories with fee tiers (AED 15,000 segments, AED 25,000-40,000 broadcasting tiers)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dubai Studio City license cost in 2026?
Many DSC production segments sit at AED 15,000/year, while broadcasting network categories can be AED 25,000-40,000/year. New companies add a one-time registration fee of AED 3,520.
What is the cheapest DSC setup package?
Some consultancies advertise from AED 14,999, typically excluding lease and visa. A realistic starter model (FZ-LLC + flexi desk, 0 visas) comes to about AED 38,540 in Year 1.
How much does DSC with 1 visa cost?
Conservative model: Year 1 about AED 47,120 — AED 18,540 (registration+licence) + AED 20,000 office + AED 2,020 establishment card + AED 5,560 visa + AED 1,000 insurance. Broadcasting licence tiers increase this.
How long does DSC company registration take?
DDA publishes 10 working days provisional approval + 2 working days registration (12 total). Office leasing and visa processing extend the real-world timeline.
What business activities are allowed in Dubai Studio City?
Broadcasting (TV/radio), digital content creation, film support, production and production support, music & entertainment, and themed amusement/recreation. Fees vary by segment.
How much is a DSC visa?
Residence visa starts from AED 4,720 plus refundable deposit of AED 2,500. Valid for 2 years. All-in cost increases with medical and Emirates ID steps.
Is an audit required for DSC license renewal?
Audit may be required from the second renewal onward depending on licence and authority policies. Banks and compliance checks frequently request audited financials regardless.
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Starting From
AED 38,540 /yr