What documents does a Russian national need to start a media production business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Russia passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Russia, attested documents via Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille, and a business plan for your media production venture.

How long does it take for a Russian citizen to set up a media production company in IFZA?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 2–5 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 12–22 business days.

What documents do I need to set up a Media Production business in IFZA?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

What are the tax implications for a Media Production business in International Free Zone Authority?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in IFZA may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

What business activities can I include on my IFZA licence?

Your IFZA licence can include media production as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Media Production business in International Free Zone Authority?

The annual licence renewal for a Media Production IFZA company costs approximately AED 11,750, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Media Production company in IFZA?

Most of the setup process for a media production business in IFZA can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Media Production in International Free Zone Authority for Russian nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Media Production in IFZA

Starting From

AED 11,750

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Media Production

The UAE continues to attract Russian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and IFZA is one of the most popular jurisdictions for media production operations. Growing community (~40,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from International Free Zone Authority gives your Media Production business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. The Media Production activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up media production businesses in International Free Zone Authority since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why IFZA for Media Production?

Choosing IFZA for your media production business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers most affordable dubai free zone, which is particularly valuable for media production operations. Additionally, fast 48-hour setup 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 3,500 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. 100% foreign ownership further enhances the appeal of IFZA for media production professionals. Furthermore, no currency restrictions positions your media production business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, IFZA remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Russian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Russian business community.

Most affordable Dubai free zone

Fast 48-hour setup

100% foreign ownership

No currency restrictions

Multiple activities on one licence

Visa Requirements for Russian Nationals

Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. Once your media production licence is issued by IFZA, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 7–14 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Russian Business Owners

Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations. IBA assists with proper documentation and bank selection. For your media production business in IFZA, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Russian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Russia-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Russian Nationals

Russian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for media production), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to IFZA.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Russia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

5Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

6Passport-sized photographs with white background

7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

8Completed application form for trade licence

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	11,750
Visa Package (per visa)	3,500
Flexi Desk	3,500
Shared Office	8,000
Private Office	18,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 18,750

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your media production business plan and the best IFZA licence options for Russian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Russia through Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the media production licence application to IFZA. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official IFZA trade licence within 2–5 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations.

Start Operations

Your media production business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. IFZA allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Russian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Media Production in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000