Table of Contents
Topic Summary
Who Can Launch This Business in Dubai
This licence suits radio and TV broadcasters, streaming and IPTV operators, and international networks entering the MENA market through a Dubai entity. It covers Arabic, English, and multilingual formats across broadcast and online delivery.
Why Meydan Free Zone Is a Smart Choice
Meydan Free Zone offers 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax on qualifying income, and full profit repatriation. The fully digital licensing process makes setup fast and cost-effective compared to mainland alternatives.
What the Activity Code Actually Covers
Activity code 6020.02 licenses you to operate a programming of video-on-demand channels business under UAE regulatory oversight. It includes client onboarding, service delivery, back-office operations, and regional market reach across Dubai and the wider UAE.
Services That Fall Outside This Licence
Producing television programme elements such as movies, documentaries, or commercials is not covered under this activity code. Assembling and distributing channel packages via cable or satellite falls under division 61 and requires a separate classification.
Third-Party Approval Is Required Before Licensing
Your operational model, facilities, and regulatory documentation must be reviewed and cleared by the relevant authority before a trade licence is issued. Building this step into your timeline from the start will prevent delays.
AML Compliance Does Not Apply Here
This business activity is exempt from Anti-Money Laundering compliance requirements, reducing one layer of ongoing regulatory obligation. That said, all other applicable UAE Media Council standards and reporting duties still apply.
Dubai's D33 Agenda Backs Broadcasting Growth
The UAE has designated broadcasting and media as strategic pillars under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, with explicit support for licensed broadcasters. Regional audience reach, a strong advertising market, and government investment make this a well-supported sector to enter.
How to Start a Programming of Video-on-Demand Channels Business in Dubai with Meydan Free Zone
A licensed programming of video-on-demand channels business serves Dubai's broadcasting and on-air media market.¹
Regional demand, government investment in the sector, and strong enterprise and consumer need drive sustained demand for licensed programming of video-on-demand channels businesses.²
For operators, this activity benefits from UAE Media Council oversight, a clear regulatory framework, and strong regional distribution reach.³
That combination of broadcasting infrastructure, regional audience reach, and a strong advertising market is exactly where the opportunity lies.
The UAE has positioned broadcasting and media as strategic pillars under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, with explicit support for licensed broadcasters.
Who is this for?
| Audience Segment | Profile |
|---|---|
| Radio and TV broadcasters | Founders and operators launching licensed radio, TV, or satellite channels in Arabic, English, or multilingual formats. |
| Streaming and Internet broadcasters | Teams running licensed online radio, IPTV, or streaming broadcast services for regional audiences. |
| International broadcasters entering MENA | Global networks and broadcasters setting up a Dubai entity for MENA programming and affiliate distribution. |
Setting up through Meydan Free Zone means 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax on qualifying income, full profit repatriation, and a fully digital licensing process, giving you a fast and cost-effective route into the Dubai broadcasting market.
6020.02 - Programming of Video-on-Demand Channels
Under this activity, you are in the business of operating a licensed programming of video-on-demand channels business.
Services are delivered under the relevant regulatory oversight with appropriate facilities, systems, and qualified personnel.¹
| Category | Scope |
|---|---|
| Core Operations | Primary delivery. Programming Of Video-On-Demand Channels core services provided to clients under the activity code. |
| Regulated Delivery | Compliance-led. Services delivered under the relevant regulatory framework, standards, and reporting obligations. |
| Client Engagement | Commercial scope. Onboarding, contracting, and ongoing service delivery to retail, corporate, or institutional clients as applicable. |
| Support and Operations | Operational back-office. Systems, staffing, documentation, and operational support needed to run the licensed activity. |
| Regional Reach | Market coverage. Delivery to clients across Dubai, the wider UAE, and regional markets within the scope of this activity. |
There are some things this activity does not cover. Activities such as production of television programme elements (e.g. movies, documentaries, commercials); assembly of a package of channels and distribution of that package via cable or satellite to viewers, see division 61 fall under separate codes.
Other related but distinct services are classified under their own activity codes and not under this one.
In short: if you are operating a licensed programming of video-on-demand channels business, you are in. If you are delivering a related but distinct service that falls under another activity, you are not.
Compliance
THIRD-PARTY APPROVAL
This activity requires pre-approval from the National Media Authority before a business license can be issued by Meydan Free Zone.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING COMPLIANCE
This business activity is exempt from AML compliance requirements.
