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twofour54 - Abu Dhabi Media Zone

Complete guide to registering your company in twofour54 Abu Dhabi. The capital's premier media free zone specializing in film production, broadcasting, publishing, gaming, and creative content industries.

About twofour54

twofour54 is Abu Dhabi's dedicated media zone and creative hub, home to over 900 companies including major broadcasters, production houses, gaming studios, and digital agencies. Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the zone offers state-of-the-art production facilities, sound stages, post-production suites, and the region's largest green screen facility. twofour54 has hosted major international productions including Star Wars, Fast & Furious, and Mission Impossible.

License Types Available

Production Services License

For film/TV production, post-production, animation, VFX, and content creation services.

Broadcasting & Publishing License

For TV/radio broadcasting, digital publishing, journalism, and news agencies.

Gaming & Interactive License

For game development, e-sports, interactive media, AR/VR content, and digital entertainment.

Creative Services License

For advertising, marketing agencies, design studios, and creative consulting firms.

Registration Requirements

  • Passport Copies: Valid passports for all shareholders, directors, and authorized signatories
  • Proof of Address: Recent residential address proof for all shareholders (utility bill or bank statement)
  • Business Plan: Detailed plan including services, target clients, and production capabilities
  • CV/Portfolio: Professional background and work portfolio for creative/production licenses
  • Parent Company Documents: Certificate of incorporation for branch office applications

Step-by-Step Registration Process

1

Initial Consultation

Meet with twofour54 team to discuss business activities and license requirements

Timeline: 1-2 days

2

Company Name Reservation

Submit proposed company name for approval by Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development

Timeline: 2-3 days

3

Application & Documentation

Complete application form and submit all required documents for review

Timeline: 3-5 business days

4

Office Space Selection

Choose office solution: co-working space, dedicated office, or production facility

Timeline: 1-3 days

5

License Issuance

Pay fees and receive trade license from Abu Dhabi DED

Timeline: 2-3 days

6

Banking & Visas

Open corporate bank account and process residence visas for team members

Timeline: 3-6 weeks

twofour54 Fee Structure

Description Amount (AED)
Trade License Fee (Annual) 18,000 - 45,000
Registration Fee (One-time) 6,500
Security Deposit 20,000 (refundable)
Co-Working Space (Annual) 15,000 - 22,000
Establishment Card 1,800
Visa Processing (per visa) 4,500 - 6,500

* Fees are subject to change. Production facilities available at additional cost.

Annual Compliance Requirements

License Renewal

Annual trade license renewal through Abu Dhabi DED before expiry date.

Office Space Agreement

Maintain valid office lease or co-working agreement throughout the license period.

Financial Audit

Annual financial statements and audit required based on company size and activities.

Corporate Tax Returns

File annual corporate tax returns. QFZP status available for qualifying free zone income.

VAT Filing

VAT registration mandatory if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 threshold. Quarterly returns required.

Economic Substance Reporting

Submit annual ESR notification and detailed report for companies conducting relevant activities.

Tax Implications

QFZP Status Benefits

twofour54 companies may qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) and enjoy:

  • 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income from free zone activities
  • 9% Corporate Tax on non-qualifying income (mainland UAE transactions)
  • De minimis threshold of 5% or AED 5M for non-qualifying revenue
Learn more about QFZP status

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