One-Of-A-Kind Initiative: Dubai Launches The First Ever International Sports And Entertainment Free Zone Cluster

Dubai has established itself as a major global business hub, offering an enticing range of business opportunities along with its strategic location and business-friendly policies. Moreover, its multidisciplinary free zones serve as a magnet for expatriates and foreign investors. Contributing approximately $2.5 billion annually to its economy, the sports sector plays a significant role in the Emirate’s economic landscape. Now, in a landmark move, Dubai has unveiled its one-of-a-kind initiative, the first International Sports and Entertainment Free Zone Cluster (ISEZ) – an industry-focused zone that further reinforces the UAE’s position as the global capital for businesses. 

Located in the world-class commercial district at the heart of Dubai – the One Central development, next to the Dubai Museum of the Future, this milestone initiative within the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is spearheaded by the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council and Dubai Sports City. The ISEZ shall be an industry-specific zone rdedicated to sports, media, entertainment and cultural business sectors, and its effective licensing.

Key Features and Incentives that the Project Extends to Businesses:

•  Benefits offered by the Free Zones – Free zones offer investors extensive advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, thereby eliminating the need for a local sponsor, fast and seamless business set-up processes, tax incentives such as a complete exemption from corporate taxes, and full repatriation of capital and profits.

• A Unified platform for licensing – Investors in ISEZ will benefit from flexible and streamlined licensing procedures, as the zone will offer a unified platform for licensing businesses engaged in sports management and marketing, event management, talent representation, and media and broadcasting.

• Expected to enhance Dubai’s economic growth – The newly launched free zone will serve as a catalyst for attracting foreign direct investments and startups. The creative zone is expected to create more job opportunities across diverse sectors and stimulate growth in developing areas such as e-sports. The ISEZ is also set to contribute to enhancing sports tourism and international investment.

• Streamlined corporate and legal support – Led by key UAE authorities including the UAE Ministry of Sports, Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), the Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Sports City, and the UAE National Olympic Community, among others, the ISEZA will provide its investors with comprehensive and tailored corporate and legal support, ensuring full clarity and certainty.

Dubai’s enticing features, including its prime location, world-class infrastructure, and global connectivity, will effectively nurture a dynamic business ecosystem for international and regional sports organisations in this global hub. This initiative will have a significant social and economic impact, creating a unique environment for hosting sports exhibitions, museums, and community projects in Dubai.

As stated by the Vice President of Asset & Investment Management at Dubai World Trade Centre, “By attracting sports and entertainment-focused businesses, we are reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global business hub and contributing to the growth of the sports sector in alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).”

In essence, the newly launched zone dedicated to sports and entertainment is expected to host global players, international brands, leagues, franchises, and talent agencies, making Dubai as the new global destination for industry entrepreneurs, professionals, sports enthusiasts, and talents.