Dubai Launches First-Ever Sports & Entertainment Free Zone

Dubai has officially launched its first Sports and Entertainment Free Zone, marking a significant step in the emirate’s mission to become a global hub for sports, media and live events. The move is designed to attract international rights holders, agencies, talent and investors by offering a purpose-built business environment with sector-specific benefits.

The new zone offers companies full foreign ownership, zero corporate tax and fast-track licensing, alongside access to bespoke infrastructure tailored to the needs of the sports and entertainment industries. Organisations setting up within the zone will be able to operate across talent management, esports, event production, content creation, data analytics and fan engagement technology, positioning Dubai as a serious destination for commercial sport and entertainment growth.

The launch reflects Dubai’s broader economic diversification strategy and comes at a time when the region is rapidly expanding its influence across global sports. From hosting UFC and cricket finals to becoming a home base for worldwide football and basketball organisations, the emirate is already a fixture on the international sporting calendar. The free zone builds on that foundation, offering long-term incentives to companies looking to scale in the Middle East and beyond.

Facilities will include production studios, esports arenas, wellness hubs and co-working spaces designed for creative and tech-led organisations. The ecosystem will also feature access to streamlined residency visas, talent programmes and investment schemes to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation across the sector.

Dubai’s leadership views the zone as a catalyst for job creation, foreign investment and content production, aligning with the city’s push to become a top-five global destination for tourism and lifestyle experiences. Early interest is reportedly strong from European and North American sports organisations exploring expansion in the MENA region, as well as homegrown startups in sports technology and entertainment.