Dubai Launches ISEZA: UAE’s First Sports & Entertainment Free Zone
Dubai has unveiled ISEZA, the UAE’s first dedicated sports and entertainment business cluster within a Free Zone environment. This initiative will serve as an industry-focused hub, supporting licensing and fostering a collaborative ecosystem to drive growth in the sports and entertainment sectors.
Supporting a Multi-Billion-Dollar Industry
Dubai’s sports industry contributes $2.5 billion annually to the economy. The UAE, a pioneer in Economic Zone development, has over 40 Free Zones specializing in various industries. ISEZA is set to cater exclusively to sports and entertainment businesses, reinforcing the sector’s expansion in the UAE and the wider Middle East.
A Hub for Emerging & Established Sectors
ISEZA will provide licensing services across multiple industries, including:
- Sports management & marketing
- Event management
- Talent representation
- Media & broadcasting
- E-sports & AI-driven sports tech
- Fan tokens & digital engagement
The Zone will host global brands, sports leagues, rights owners, investors, media professionals, influencers, and creative industry experts, creating an integrated ecosystem for growth and collaboration.
Strategic Location & Government Collaboration
ISEZA will be located in One Central, near Dubai’s Museum of the Future, and will work closely with key UAE authorities, such as:
- UAE Ministry of Sports
- Dubai Sports Council
- UAE National Olympic Committee
A Vision for Global Sports & Entertainment
Khaled AlFahim, Vice President of Asset & Investment Management at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), emphasized that ISEZA will provide streamlined business setup services, valuable networking opportunities, and a world-class environment for industry players.
“Our award-winning Free Zone will attract sports federations, leagues, and associations—both established and emerging—enhancing Dubai’s status as a global sports and business hub in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33),”
he stated.
Boosting Sports, Entertainment & Community Development
ISEZA CEO, Damir Valeev, highlighted the initiative’s social impact, stating:
“This project aligns with Dubai’s vision of becoming a global hub for sports, entertainment, and tourism. It will promote sports exhibitions, museums, academic programs, and community projects across Dubai World Trade Centre and Expo City Dubai.”
A Game-Changer for Dubai’s Sports Industry
With global connectivity, investor-friendly policies, and favorable tax regulations, ISEZA is poised to attract major international and regional sports organizations. It aims to shape the future of sports and entertainment entrepreneurship, innovation, and industry expansion in Dubai for years to come.
News Source: Dubai Media Office