Dubai Launches ISEZA: UAE’s First Sports & Entertainment Business Free Zone

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Dubai has introduced ISEZA, the UAE’s first dedicated sports and entertainment business cluster operating within a Free Zone environment. Established within the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone, ISEZA is designed to streamline licensing processes and foster a collaborative ecosystem that accelerates growth in the sports, entertainment, and media industries.

ISEZA operates under the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA), which was established in 2015 to provide a competitive and regulated Free Zone ecosystem within Dubai’s Central Business District. With over two million square feet of premium commercial office space, DWTCA hosts a diverse international business community, including startups, SMEs, and leading corporations across more than 40 industries.

A Hub for Established & Emerging Sectors

As part of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), ISEZA strengthens Dubai’s position as a global hub for sports and entertainment. The Free Zone will support businesses across various sectors, including:

  • Sports management and marketing
  • Event management and talent representation
  • Media broadcasting and content creation
  • E-sports, AI-driven sports technology, and fan tokens

With Dubai’s sports industry contributing approximately $2.5 billion annually, ISEZA presents an attractive platform for global brands, sports leagues, investors, talent agencies, and influencers.

Khaled AlFahim, Vice President of Asset & Investment Management at Dubai World Trade Centre, emphasized DWTC’s long-standing legacy in hosting major sporting events and live entertainment. He stated, “The launch of ISEZA within the DWTC Free Zone will foster a dynamic ecosystem, empowering sports and entertainment businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs to thrive. ISEZA members will benefit from our award-winning Free Zone’s prime location in the heart of the city’s business district, streamlined business setup, and access to valuable networking opportunities through our diverse events and exhibitions calendar. By attracting sports and entertainment-focused businesses, we are reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global business hub and contributing to the growth of the sports sector in alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).”

Strategic Location & Government Collaboration

Located in One Central, near the Museum of the Future, ISEZA benefits from a prime business district location and will collaborate with key UAE authorities to provide corporate and legal support to its members, including:

  • UAE Ministry of Sports
  • Dubai Sports Council
  • UAE National Olympic Committee

ISEZA is expected to drive significant social and economic impact, offering a platform for sports exhibitions, academic programs, and community projects while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading destination for sports, entertainment, and tourism.