Event Management in DMC
Starting From
AED 15,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
5 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Event Management
The UAE's thriving economy continues to attract investors from around the world, and Dubai Media City stands out as a premier destination for Event Management businesses.
As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Event Management business will benefit from middle east media hub and home to international media houses. The DMC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 15,000.
With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your event management setup in DMC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.
Why DMC for Event Management?
There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Media City continues to attract event management entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers middle east media hub, which is particularly valuable for event management operations. Additionally, home to international media houses ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Full media production ecosystem further enhances the appeal of DMC for event management professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your event management business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DMC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established tourism enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
Requirements & Documents
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fee | 15,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 5,000 |
| Flexi Desk | 12,000 |
| Shared Office | 20,000 |
| Private Office | 45,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 32,000 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Initial Consultation
Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your event management business objectives, optimal licence structure, and DMC as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.
Choose Your Company Name
Select your company name and submit it for approval. DMC has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. As a non-regulated activity, the documentation requirements are straightforward. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Your DMC trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct event management activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 15,000.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your DMC licence includes 5 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,000. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.
Open Corporate Bank Account
With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.
Start Operations
With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your event management business in Dubai Media City is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
The typical processing time for a event management licence at DMC is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.
Event Management in Other Jurisdictions
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Official Source
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By IBA Business Setup Team
Last updated: 26 February 2026
International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.
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