The Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone Authority (DTMFZA) was renamed the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA) in 2014 following a mandate from the ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to oversee the growth of Dubai’s creative industries in support of the Dubai Innovation Strategy.

This free zone was established in 2000 with the intention of making Dubai a hub for knowledge-based industries. It is committed to developing policies and programs to attract, retain, and grow creative industries in Dubai. Dubai’s primary regulatory and administrative body is DCCA, which oversees a number of free zone parks. It not only oversees the application process and issues licenses to all new businesses, but it also enacts and enforces laws in its area of authority.

7 Strategic Objectives

The Dubai Creative Clusters Authority has identified seven strategic goals to support and justify the accomplishment of its mandate to support Dubai’s innovation strategy:

• Ensure world-class infrastructure and engage a vibrant community
• Develop business-friendly regulations and ease of doing business
• Augment the size and skills of the creative talent pool
• Promote entrepreneurship, SMEs, and innovation
• Encourage dynamic industry ecosystems
• Deliver high-quality research, insights, and analysis
• Optimize organizational effectiveness and invest in their people

Clusters in DCCA

DCCA free zone is divided into 4 clusters:

• The sciences cluster
• The education cluster
• The information and communication cluster
• The media cluster

Benefits of Setting Up a Business in DCCA

• 100% foreign ownership
• Exemption from corporate tax and customs duty
• 100% repatriation of capital and profits
• Customized real-estate options ideal for organizational needs
• Easy access to high-end residential accommodation
• Strategic location

Business Entities in DCCA

• Free Zone Limited Liability Company
• Branch of a Foreign Company
• Branch of a UAE Company
• Freelancing

Types of Licenses Issued by DCCA

Dubai Creative Clusters Authority issues licenses under the following categories:

• Higher Education Provider Segment
• Storage Activity Segment
• Manufacturing and Productivity Segment
• Food Segment
• Broadcasting TV and Radio Segments
• Publishing Segment

How to Set Up a Business in DCCA?

If you wish to set up a company in DCCA, you can follow these simple steps:

• Submit an application for approval
• Submit the legal documents for company registration
• Make the requisite fee payment
• Sign and collect company registration certificate

Documents Required for Company Registration in DCCA

• Personal details of the shareholder
• Passport copies of the shareholder, manager, and director
• Business plan
• Company incorporation certificate
• No objection certificate (NOC)
• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA)
• Bank reference letter of the shareholder
• Resolution for the incorporation
• Proof of share capital

Why Set Up a Business in DCCA?

The Dubai Creative Cluster Authority creates evidence-based policies and programs with the goal of supporting the development of Dubai’s creative industries and creating an environment conducive to their success. It also contributes to the growth of the creative talent pool, encourages entrepreneurship and innovation, provides financial support, establishes forums among creative industries, and serves as a platform for research, creativity, and community development. Additionally, DCCA is committed to enhancing Dubai’s global reputation as a creative and innovative center as it moves toward the implementation of a number of ambitious projects, including the Dubai Innovation Strategy, Expo 2020, and the Dubai Plan 2021.

You are on the right path if you are eager to establish your business here. Business Setup Worldwide’s advisors are available to assist you with the exercise. We promise to take care of all the obstacles you face as you start your business and will be happy to help you and be a part of your success. Contact us if you have any questions about starting a business in the Dubai Creative Cluster (DCCA); we would be happy to assist.