The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a significant hub for television programming and broadcasting in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The country’s strategic location, economic stability, and supportive government policies have contributed to its growth in this sector.
The UAE caters to a diverse population with programming that includes news, entertainment, sports, and educational content. Arabic-language programming is prevalent, but there are also channels targeting specific demographics, such as expatriate communities. The country has also invested heavily in infrastructure, technology, and talent to produce high-quality television content. With world-class studios and production facilities, it attracts international broadcasters and production companies.
For entrepreneurs who want to join this dynamic field, here are the business activities you can choose under your business license.
6020.00 – Television programming and broadcasting activities
Television programming refers to the creation and curation of content that is broadcast on television channels. This includes everything from news and documentaries to reality shows and dramas. Television broadcasting is the process of transmitting these programs to viewers through various means, such as over-the-air signals, cable television, satellite television, and streaming services. A business in this industry would be involved in production, development, licensing, syndication, scheduling, programming, promotions, transmission, and engineering. It involves a wide range of activities, from the creative process of developing shows to the technical aspects of ensuring that content reaches viewers.
This business excludes the production of television programme elements (e.g. movies, documentaries, commercials), and the assembly of a package of channels and distribution of that package via cable or satellite to viewers.
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.
6020.01 – Creation of a complete television channel programme, from purchased programme components (e.g. movies, documentaries etc.), self produced programme components (e.g. local news, live reports) or a combination thereof
Channel programming is the art and science of selecting and arranging television content to create a cohesive viewing experience. It involves a careful balance of purchased program components (like movies and documentaries) and self-produced content (such as local news and live reports).
This business excludes the production of television programme elements (e.g. movies, documentaries, commercials), and the assembly of a package of channels and distribution of that package via cable or satellite to viewers.
Third-party Approval: This business activity requires third-party approval from the Ministry of Culture and Youth – Media Regulatory Office (MRO), prior to 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.
6020.02 – Programming of video-on-demand channels
Video-on-Demand (VOD) programming involves curating and organising a library of video content that viewers can access on demand. This differs from traditional television broadcasting, where content is scheduled and aired at specific times. VOD platforms offer viewers the flexibility to watch content whenever they want.
This business excludes the production of television programme elements (e.g. movies, documentaries, commercials), and the assembly of a package of channels and distribution of that package via cable or satellite to viewers.
Third-party Approval: This business activity requires third-party approval from the Ministry of Culture and Youth – Media Regulatory Office (MRO), prior to 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.
6020.03 – Data broadcasting integrated with television broadcasting
Data broadcasting integrated with television broadcasting refers to the transmission of data along with traditional television signals. This enables additional services and features that enhance the viewer experience. Data broadcasting integrated with television broadcasting offers a wide range of benefits for viewers, including enhanced interactivity, flexibility, and convenience.
This business excludes the production of television programme elements (e.g. movies, documentaries, commercials), and the assembly of a package of channels and distribution of that package via cable or satellite to viewers.
Third-party Approval: This business activity requires third-party approval from the Ministry of Culture and Youth – Media Regulatory Office (MRO), prior to 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.
Did you find what you were looking for? Explore the other guides in our Activity Hub for exploring unique business ideas in Dubai and navigate the essentials of business setup with ease.
You can also calculate your business setup costs easily using our handy cost calculator and choose from our customized company setup packages to find your perfect fit.
Get your business license in the UAE today and explore a world of opportunities waiting for you.
