Dubai Media City (DMC) Free Zone Guide 2026
Dubai Media City (DMC) is a leading media and creative free zone. Here is the complete 2026 guide.
In this guide:
About Dubai Media City
- Operator: TECOM Group; same parent as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Knowledge Park
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Tecom area, New Dubai
- Focus: Media, entertainment, PR, advertising, music, film, digital media
- Companies: 2,600+ companies including CNN, Reuters, MBC, Viacom, BBC, Condé Nast
DMC Licence Activities
- Broadcasting and media production
- Advertising and marketing
- Public relations and communications
- Music and entertainment production
- Film and TV production
- Digital marketing and social media
- Publishing and media distribution
DMC vs. SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) — Which to Choose?
- DMC: Premium Dubai hub; established media ecosystem; close to major media companies; higher cost
- SHAMS: More affordable Sharjah alternative; same media activities; better for smaller startups
- Choose DMC: If you want prestigious Dubai media hub address and access to the DMC community
- Choose SHAMS: If cost is a priority; budget media or content company
DMC Costs
- Annual licence: AED 20,000-40,000 depending on activity and office type
- Flexi-desk: Available; included in some packages
- Studios and production facilities: Available for rental within DMC community