Dubai Production City

The UAE’s Leading Free Zone for Printing, Publishing and Media Production

Dubai Production City (DPC), formerly known as the International Media Production Zone (IMPZ), is one of Dubai’s leading free zones for businesses involved in printing, publishing, packaging, media production, and creative services. Established in 2003, it provides a specialised business environment supported by industry-focused regulations, modern infrastructure, and flexible company formation options.

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IncHub Corporate Services Providers LLC is a duly licensed business operating in the United Arab Emirates, authorised to provide corporate and business setup consultancy services in accordance with its trade licence. The trade licence serves as official proof of the company’s legal registration and authorised business activities, demonstrating that IncHub operates as a licensed corporate service provider in the UAE.

Licence No.1017774
Issue Date28/12/2021
Valid Through27/12/2026
Free Zone Guide

Dubai Production City Company Formation: Complete Guide

Located in Me’aisem, Dubai Production City is part of the TECOM business ecosystem and is regulated by the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA). The free zone attracts entrepreneurs, SMEs, and international companies looking for a strategic base with access to the UAE, GCC, and global markets.

Companies can choose from multiple license categories, flexible office solutions, and scalable visa packages, making Dubai Production City suitable for businesses at every stage of growth. Entry-level license costs generally start from around AED 15,000, while company formation is typically completed within 5 to 10 working days, subject to documentation and office selection.

Dubai Production City was launched in 2003 as the International Media Production Zone, with a clear focus on supporting the printing, publishing, packaging, and media production industries. While the name changed from IMPZ Production City to Dubai Production City, its commitment to creative and production-related businesses remains the same.

For businesses considering Dubai Production City company registration, the location in Me’aisem along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road offers excellent connectivity to major business districts, airports, ports, and logistics hubs across Dubai. It also forms part of the wider TECOM business community, allowing companies to collaborate with businesses operating in neighbouring creative zones.

Unlike broader business free zones, Dubai Production City is designed for businesses that require industry-specific licensing and infrastructure. Companies operating in publishing, commercial printing, packaging, graphic design, and content production benefit from a business environment tailored to their operational requirements.

Today, the media production zone in Dubai continues to attract local and international investors looking for Dubai Production City company formation options by combining specialised regulations, modern commercial facilities, and a supportive ecosystem for the creative industries.

Supported Activities

Business Activities Supported in Dubai Production City

Dubai Production City is suitable for a broad range of businesses operating within the creative, publishing, and production sectors, including:

Printing and commercial publishing companies

Packaging and labelling manufacturers

Media production and content creation businesses

Photography and video production companies

Graphic design and creative agencies

Advertising and branding consultancies

Digital publishing businesses

E-commerce content production companies

Event management and promotional service providers

The free zone is particularly attractive for businesses comparing Dubai Production City company setup options and seeking an industry-focused regulatory framework.
Sector Profile

Industry Focus of Dubai Production City

The former International Media Production Zone has developed into one of the UAE’s most specialised business destinations for companies involved in print, publishing, packaging, and media production.

Businesses operating within Dubai Production City benefit from a regulatory framework overseen by the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority, making it a preferred location for companies that require licences aligned with creative and publishing activities.

The free zone is widely used by:

Book and magazine publishers
Commercial printing companies
Packaging manufacturers
Label and sticker producers
Paper product manufacturers
Corporate printing service providers
Graphic design studios
Creative production agencies
Media content producers
Packaging solution providers serving retail and FMCG industries
Its specialised ecosystem enables businesses to work alongside suppliers, publishers, manufacturers, and creative professionals within the same business community, creating valuable networking and collaboration opportunities.
VAT Position
Dubai Production City is not classified as a Designated Zone for UAE VAT purposes. Businesses established in the free zone must comply with the standard UAE VAT regulations applicable to goods and services supplied within the country.

However, eligible companies may still benefit from the UAE’s Qualifying Free Zone Person regime for Corporate Tax, subject to meeting the applicable conditions under the Corporate Tax legislation. Additionally, businesses enjoy 100% foreign ownership and other free zone advantages available to eligible investors.
Structures & Requirements

License Options in Dubai Production City

Dubai Production City offers a range of license categories to support businesses across the creative, publishing, printing, and media sectors. Selecting the right license depends on your planned activities and long-term business goals.

Licensing

License Options in Dubai Production City

General LicenseDesigned for companies carrying out approved commercial and professional activities, including consultancy, marketing, legal services, courier services, travel-related businesses, and other permitted operations.
Publishing LicenseSuitable for businesses involved in publishing books, magazines, newspapers, journals, digital publications, and other print or electronic media.
Media Production LicenseIntended for companies providing media production services such as film production, video creation, photography, broadcasting support, animation, and digital content development.
Graphic Design LicenseIdeal for creative agencies and professionals offering branding, graphic design, illustration, visual communication, advertising design, and related creative services.
Legal Structures

Company Structures Available

Businesses planning Dubai Production City business setup can choose from different legal structures based on their ownership model and operational requirements.
Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)An FZ-LLC is an independent legal entity that supports Dubai Production City company incorporation for individual or corporate shareholders. It is the most popular structure for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking full operational independence within the free zone.
Branch OfficeExisting UAE or foreign companies can establish a branch in Dubai Production City to expand their operations without creating a separate legal entity. The branch carries out approved activities under the parent company’s ownership.
Freelancer PermitIndependent professionals can obtain a Freelancer Permit to legally provide approved creative and professional services under their own name. Applicants are generally required to submit a business plan, passport copy, and supporting documentation during the application process.
In addition to these primary licenses, Dubai Production City Dubai supports businesses involved in printing, packaging, media distribution, printing equipment, production materials, event management, and promotional services.
Setup Costs

Setup Costs

ItemTypical Cost (AED)
Entry-level licenseFrom approx. 15,000
Visa allocation1 to 10 visas, license, and office dependent
Formation Guide

Company Formation Process in Dubai Production City

Dubai Production City company formation is a straightforward process when all required documents are prepared in advance.

  1. Select Business Activity

    1 Business Day

    Choose the business activities you intend to carry out and identify the license category that best matches your operations.

  2. Choose the Legal Structure

    1 Business Day

    Decide whether to establish an FZ-LLC, register a branch office, or apply for a Freelancer Permit.

  3. Submit Application

    1 – 2 Business Days

    Prepare and submit the required documents, including passport copies, shareholder information, business plan (where applicable), and any supporting approvals.

  4. Secure Office Space

    1 – 3 Business Days

    Select an approved office solution, such as a flexi-desk, serviced office, or dedicated commercial unit, and complete the lease agreement.

  5. Complete DPC Company Registration

    1 – 2 Business Days

    Sign the incorporation documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and pay the registration and license fees.

  6. Receive the License

    5 – 10 Business Days

    After approval, the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA) issues the trade license and company registration documents.

  7. Process Residence Visas

    7 – 10 Business Days

    Apply for investor and employee visas based on the approved visa allocation linked to your office and license package.

  8. Open a Corporate Bank Account

    5 – 10 Business Days

    Once incorporated through Dubai Production City, you can proceed with opening a UAE corporate bank account to start business operations.

Commercial Advantages

Key Advantages of Dubai Production City

Choosing Dubai Production City offers several advantages for businesses operating in creative and production-focused industries.

A specialised free zone dedicated to printing, publishing, packaging, and media production.

Regulation by the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority provides an industry-focused business environment.

Multiple license options covering creative, professional, and media-related activities.

Flexible workspace solutions, including flexi-desks, serviced offices, and larger commercial units.

Competitive company formation costs compared with many specialised media free zones.

Access to the wider TECOM business ecosystem creates opportunities for collaboration across neighbouring creative communities.

Strategic location with convenient access to Dubai’s airports, ports, major highways, and commercial districts.

Eligibility for UAE free zone benefits, including 100% foreign ownership and potential Corporate Tax incentives for qualifying businesses.

Scalable visa packages that support both startups and growing companies.

A well-established ecosystem that connects publishers, printers, designers, production companies, packaging manufacturers, and creative professionals.

With its specialised infrastructure and industry-focused ecosystem, Dubai Production City business setup remains one of the strongest choices for businesses seeking to establish a long-term presence in the UAE’s creative and production sectors.
Suitability Check

Business Suitability Considerations

While Dubai Production City is an excellent choice for many creative and production-focused businesses, it may not be the ideal option for every company.

Businesses focused primarily on broadcasting, digital media, or advertising may find Dubai Media City better suited to their industry.
Companies requiring professional film studios, sound stages, or large-scale production facilities may benefit more from Dubai Studio City.
Freelancers and startups looking for the lowest possible setup costs may prefer more budget-friendly free zones that offer lower entry pricing.
Businesses with no connection to printing, publishing, packaging, or media production may achieve greater flexibility by choosing a general-purpose free zone.
Selecting the right free zone depends on your business activity, budget, licensing requirements, and long-term growth plans. These factors should be reviewed before choosing Dubai Production City company setup.
Free Zone Comparison

DPC vs Dubai Media City vs Dubai Studio City

Dubai Production City, Dubai Media City and Dubai Studio City serve different creative and production models. IncHub compares each one so you choose the authority that matches what your business actually needs, not just the most recognisable name.

Factor DPC Dubai Media City Dubai Studio City
Core Focus Printing, publishing, packaging & media production Dubai media cluster, agencies & broadcast Film, TV & production infrastructure
Location Me’aisem, near Dubai Sports City Al Sufouh Road, near Dubai Marina Al Barsha South, Dubai (TECOM Media Cluster)
Companies / Cluster Specialised print & publishing ecosystem 2,000+ companies; UAE’s largest media hub Production campus; 2,800+ creatives
Entry-Level Cost From approx. AED 15,000 From approx. AED 15,010 (commercial); AED 7,500 freelance From approx. AED 15,000–25,000
Setup Time 5–10 working days 5–10 working days Facility-led; typically longer
Production Infrastructure Print, packaging & publishing facilities Office & broadcast campus, not sound stages Sound stages, backlots & production facilities
Office Requirement Mandatory registered office or flexi-desk Office / flexi-desk required Physical facility required before licence
Ideal Company Types Publishers, printers, packaging & graphic design firms Dubai-facing agencies, studios & global media brands Film, TV & broadcast productions needing stages

IncHub holds direct relationships across the UAE’s free zones, helping you choose the one that best fits your sector and regulatory needs, not just the one with the strongest brand.

Ongoing Requirements

Compliance and Ongoing Requirements

Companies established in Dubai Production City must comply with the UAE’s federal regulations as well as the free zone’s administrative requirements to maintain good standing.

Key ongoing obligations include:

Timely trade licence renewal.

Corporate Tax compliance, where applicable.

VAT registration and filing for eligible businesses.

Maintenance of Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) records.

Accurate accounting and financial record keeping.

Renewal of investor and employee residence visas.

Maintaining accurate company information by reporting any changes to the relevant authorities.

Businesses involved in publishing and media production must also ensure their content complies with the applicable regulations administered by the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA).
Companies should confirm any audit requirements during the incorporation process, as compliance obligations may vary depending on the licensed activity.
Work with IncHub

IncHub Support for Dubai Production City Company Formation

Setting up a company in Dubai Production City involves selecting the appropriate licence, legal structure, office solution, and compliance framework. Professional guidance can help streamline the process and reduce delays.

IncHub provides end-to-end company formation support for entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, and international investors establishing businesses in the former International Media Production Zone.

Our services include:

  • Business activity and free zone suitability assessment.
  • License selection and activity classification guidance.
  • Dubai Production City company registration and documentation support.
  • Assistance with office and workspace selection.
  • Investor and employee visa processing.
  • Emirates ID and medical test coordination.
  • Corporate bank account assistance.
  • VAT registration and Corporate Tax guidance.
  • UBO compliance support.
  • Ongoing license renewal and company compliance assistance.
Our team manages the Dubai Production City company formation process from the initial consultation through to post-setup support, helping businesses establish operations efficiently in Dubai Production City.
Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped printing, publishing, packaging and media production businesses set up in Dubai Production City through our authorised Professional Partner network.

Video Stories
Google Reviews 1 / 20
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L S R Holiday Homes L.L.C
3 weeks ago

Visa renewal can often feel complicated due to the multiple steps involved. However, my experience with IncHub was very smooth. They planned the process in advance, guided me at every stage, and ensured everything was completed on time. What I liked most was that I didn’t have to follow up everything was managed efficiently by their team.

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DigitalX Tech – FZCO
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company was not straightforward, especially when it came to choosing the right jurisdiction for my business model. Making the wrong decision could have resulted in unnecessary time and cost. IncHub provided clear and practical guidance, helping me select the most suitable free zone based on my activities.

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Cosmium IT – FZCO
2 months ago

Setting up a company in Dubai can get confusing, especially with so many free zones. I wasn’t sure what would suit my business, but IncHub made it simple. They guided me clearly, handled everything, and kept me updated throughout. The whole process felt very smooth. Definitely recommend speaking to them before you get started.

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BLUEDCM FZE
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company through IncHub was seamless from start to finish. Their team handled everything — trade licence, immigration card, and office registration — within the promised timeline. No surprises on costs. If you’re serious about establishing in the UAE, IncHub is who you call first.

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ABI Quality Goods Wholesalers Co. L.L.C
2 weeks ago

Most consultants only react when you approach them, but Inchub is different. They track your renewal timelines and remind you in advance. The execution was smooth, and everything was done exactly when it should be. If you want it done right the first time, Inchub is the way to go.

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Optimity L.L.C
1 month ago

I had a very positive experience with Inchub for my license renewal. What stood out the most was their follow-up system — I was reminded well before the expiry date, which gave enough time to plan everything properly. The team handled the entire process efficiently, and the renewal was completed without delays.

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Univex L.L.C-FZ
3 months ago

Inchub handled the entire business setup process smoothly — everything was clearly explained, and the execution was efficient from start to finish. They have also assisted and guided us when there were AML compliance notifications from the authority. Overall, a reliable partner for end-to-end corporate services.

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Ecom Vacation Homes Rental L.L.C
1 month ago

We had a bit of a challenge when it came to opening the labor file and processing new visas. There were a few complications along the way. That’s where Inchub really stepped in. Their team handled the entire process clearly and kept us updated throughout without us having to follow up constantly. Very reliable team.

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CMAR Management FZE
3 months ago

Our experience with Inchub has genuinely exceeded expectations. From the very beginning, the team has been extremely professional, approachable, and proactive. They’ve supported us across multiple areas — including corporate services, corporate tax filing, and visa renewals — all managed in a structured manner.

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Toyo Mea L.L.C-FZ
2 months ago

We worked with Inchub on a share amendment, which was quite complex. Their team guided us through each step, managed the process efficiently, and ensured everything was handled correctly despite the challenges. They also handle our accounting and VAT filing smoothly. A reliable and professional team.

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Nicube International FZCO
4 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub across multiple areas. They initially helped us with setting up both our offshore and free zone company, guiding us clearly. Since then, they’ve assisted us with annual renewals on time, and they manage our accounting and VAT filings efficiently. A highly dependable partner.

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Well Mate L.L.C-FZ
5 months ago

I’ve been working with Inchub for several years, and the experience has been consistently positive. Their services are reliable and efficient. They’ve supported me across multiple areas — from managing trade license renewals to assisting with business bank account opening. Having everything under one team saved a lot of effort.

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Telora Global L.L.C – FZ
2 months ago

Managing compliance alongside running a business can get overwhelming. Inchub takes care of our accounting, VAT, CT filings, and license renewal, which has saved us a lot of time and effort. Everything is handled efficiently and professionally. IncHub operates across every discipline and maintains high quality.

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Gaia Resources DMCC
2 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub for our ongoing compliance and business support. They handle everything from maintaining our company’s good standing to managing renewals on time, along with accounting and VAT filings. A very smooth experience, and they are definitely a reliable partner.

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Nextgen Brokers FZE
3 months ago

We have engaged Inchub for ongoing compliance support. They handle our company’s good standing, ensure renewals are completed on time, and manage accounting and VAT filings efficiently. The team is proactive, well-organized, and keeps everything on track without the need for constant follow-ups.

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Mw Holding Group Ltd
4 months ago

We worked with Inchub for setting up our offshore holding company. They facilitated the entire process smoothly, including the company formation and opening the corporate bank account. They also manage our accounting and bookkeeping. It’s helpful to have one team handling both setup and ongoing requirements.

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Jannali Foundation
3 months ago

We engaged Inchub for setting up our RAK ICC foundation. They supported us throughout the entire formation process, including documentation, and guided us at every step. They also assisted with opening the bank account, which was handled smoothly. The team was very organized and efficient.

Google Verified Review
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Drops By Nada Portal
1 month ago

We worked with Inchub for both our license renewal and visa renewal. The entire process was handled very smoothly and efficiently from start to finish. Everything was completed right on time without any complications. Their structured approach and clear communication make them very easy to work with.

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Peopex LLC
5 months ago

Setting up a company in the UAE can feel complex. With Inchub, the entire process was handled seamlessly. They took care of everything — from the trade license and immigration card to visa application and even opening the company bank account. The team managed the entire process efficiently.

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Aube International Commercial Brokers
4 weeks ago

We’ve been working with Inchub since day one for license renewals, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa processing. The experience has been very smooth. One thing that stands out is how responsive their team is. Whenever we need support, they’re quick to respond and guide us clearly.

Google Verified Review
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Dubai Production City company registration cost?

Entry-level licenses start from around AED 15,000, with final pricing depending on business activity, visa requirements and office configuration.

What was Dubai Production City formerly called?

International Media Production Zone (IMPZ). It was rebranded as Dubai Production City but is still sometimes referred to by its original name.

How is Dubai Production City different from Dubai Media City and Dubai Studio City?

DPC specialises specifically in printing, publishing and packaging alongside broader media production, while Dubai Media City focuses on broadcasting and advertising, and Dubai Studio City on physical sound-stage production infrastructure. All three sit within the same TECOM Media Cluster.

What legal structures are available for Dubai Production City company incorporation?

Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC), a branch of a foreign or UAE company, and an individual Freelancer Permit.

How many visas can a Dubai Production City company sponsor?

Between 1 and 10 visas, depending on license type and office configuration.

How long does the Dubai Production City company setup take?

Typically 5 to 10 working days with complete documentation, though more complex applications involving office fit-out can take 2 to 4 weeks.

Start Your Dubai Production City Company Setup

Start Your Dubai Production City Company Setup

Launch your business with expert guidance for Dubai Production City business setup from IncHub for a smooth and hassle-free company formation process.