The UAE has emerged as a significant hub for the distribution of motion pictures, videos, and television programs. This industry plays a crucial role in catering to the diverse entertainment preferences of both local and international audiences.
Situated between Europe, Asia, and Africa, the UAE is an ideal gateway for the distribution of content across multiple regions. The UAE serves as a hub for the distribution of international content, including Hollywood films, television series, and documentaries. Numerous international and local distribution companies operate in the UAE, acquiring rights to films, television programs, and other content and distributing them to various outlets. Meanwhile, the UAE’s film industry is also on the rise, with local productions gaining international recognition. This has led to increased demand for distribution services.
For entrepreneurs who want to thrive in this lucrative industry, here are the business activities you can choose under your business license.
5913.00 – Motion picture, video and television programme distribution activities
Motion picture, video, and television program distribution involves the process of acquiring the rights to films, TV shows, and other audiovisual content and making it available to audiences through various channels. This industry plays a crucial role in connecting content creators with consumers. Key activities involve acquiring rights and licensing, marketing and promotion through campaigns and advertising, distribution through theatrical releases, home videos, television broadcasting, and streaming services, and rights management.
This business excludes film duplicating (except reproduction of motion picture film for theatrical distribution), reproduction of audio and video tapes, CDs or DVDs from master copies, and reproduction of motion picture film for theatrical distribution.
Third-party Approval: This business activity requires third-party approval from the MRO, post obtaining your trade license.
Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.
5913.01 – Distributing film, video tapes, DVDs and similar productions to motion picture theatres, television networks and stations and exhibitors
This business involves the acquisition and delivery of audiovisual content to various exhibition platforms, including motion picture theatres, television networks, and stations. It’s a crucial link in the entertainment industry, ensuring that content reaches its intended audience. Key activities include content acquisition, packaging and distribution, theatre distribution, television distribution, and rights management.
This business excludes film duplicating (except reproduction of motion picture film for theatrical distribution), reproduction of audio and video tapes, CDs or DVDs from master copies, and reproduction of motion picture film for theatrical distribution.
Third-party Approval: This business activity requires third-party approval from the Ministry of Culture and Youth – Media Regulatory Office (MRO), post obtaining your trade license.
Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.
5913.02 – Acquiring film, video tape and DVD distribution rights
This business involves obtaining the legal permission to reproduce and distribute audiovisual content in specific territories or formats. It’s a crucial step in the entertainment industry, allowing companies to make content available to audiences. Key activities include identifying potential content, contacting producers, evaluating content, drafting contracts, and managing usage rights.
This business excludes film duplicating (except reproduction of motion picture film for theatrical distribution), reproduction of audio and video tapes, CDs or DVDs from master copies, and reproduction of motion picture film for theatrical distribution.
Third-party Approval: This business activity requires third-party approval from the Ministry of Culture and Youth – Media Regulatory Office (MRO), post obtaining your trade license.
Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.
5913.11 – Media archiving
Media archiving is the practice of preserving and storing digital and physical media assets over time. It involves a systematic approach to ensure that valuable content remains accessible and usable for future generations. The business of media archiving includes assessment, preservation, format conversion, digitisation, storage of media, metadata management, access and preservation planning.
This business excludes film duplicating (except reproduction of motion picture film for theatrical distribution), reproduction of audio and video tapes, CDs or DVDs from master copies, and reproduction of motion picture film for theatrical distribution.
Third-party Approval: This business activity requires third-party approval from the Ministry of Culture and Youth – Media Regulatory Office (MRO), post obtaining your trade license.
Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activity mentioned in this article.
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