Overview
twofour54 is Abu Dhabi’s dedicated media and entertainment free zone, named after the geographic coordinates of Abu Dhabi (24.54). Established in 2008, twofour54 has become a regional centre for Arabic and international content creation, hosting major production studios, broadcasters, digital media firms, and gaming companies. The zone operates under the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development and offers tailored support for media and creative businesses.
Key Sectors
twofour54 focuses on film and television production, animation, gaming, digital media, broadcasting, publishing, advertising, music production, events, and Arabic content development. The zone has attracted international film productions and serves as the base for several regional Arabic-language channels and content studios.
Setup Process
Setting up in twofour54 involves applying through the twofour54 portal, selecting a business activity from the permitted media and creative categories, submitting incorporation documents, and choosing office or studio space. For content production, applicants can also access the zone’s production services and facility booking systems. Licence issuance typically takes five to ten business days.
Costs and Licensing
twofour54 freelancer licences start at approximately AED 7,500 per year. Company licences begin at around AED 15,000 annually, varying by activity type. Office space at the twofour54 campus in Yas Island starts at approximately AED 800 per square metre per year. Production studios and sound stages are available on daily or project-based rental arrangements, with rates depending on specification.
Benefits
twofour54 offers zero corporate and personal income tax for qualifying activities, 100 percent foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, access to state-of-the-art production facilities (including Yas Creative Hub studios, sound stages, and post-production suites), and Abu Dhabi’s film production rebate of up to 30 percent for qualifying spend. The zone provides an integrated ecosystem for content creation.
Ownership Rules
Foreign investors may own 100 percent of twofour54 entities. No local partner or UAE national sponsor is required. Entity types include freelancer permits, LLCs, and branch offices.
Tax Regime
Qualifying twofour54 companies benefit from zero percent corporate tax under the UAE free zone framework. No personal income tax applies. Standard five percent VAT applies under UAE federal law. Abu Dhabi’s film production rebate provides additional financial incentives for qualifying productions.
Infrastructure
twofour54 operates primarily from the Yas Creative Hub on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The campus features production studios, sound stages, post-production facilities, office buildings, co-working spaces, and event venues. The zone also includes facilities in the twofour54 intaj complex in Khalifa City. Yas Island provides proximity to Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Mall, and Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Ideal Investor Profile
twofour54 is ideal for film production companies, animation studios, gaming developers, broadcasters, content creators, advertising agencies, and digital media firms seeking access to professional production infrastructure, Abu Dhabi’s production rebate, and a dedicated Arabic and international content ecosystem.