Dubai Studio City boutique studios to be ready for possession in May

Regional and international broadcasters have booked 15 of the studios to launch new television channels out of Dubai.

The announcements were made at the 13th Middle East International Cable, Satellite, Broadcast and Communications Exhibition (CABSAT 2007), being held in Dubai from 6-8 March.

Each boutique studio will provide 6,000 sp. ft. of offices spaces, while studio areas will range from 1,000 sq. ft. - 3,000 sq. ft. Designs of all the units correspond to the highest international standards to meet the high end production requirements. The boutique studios will be equipped with high power feed and AC capacity, as well as world class uplink connectivity. The first phase of the project will include a retail area to serve the community.

Dr. Amina Al Rustamani, Executive Director of Media, TECOM Investments said:

"Broadcasting is one of the largest segments that have recorded significant growth in Dubai during the last few years. Dubai Media City currently boasts over 60 broadcasters that operate nearly 150 television channels."

"The developments in Dubai Studio City will expand our offerings to accommodate the mushrooming growth in this important segment of the media," she added.

Highlighting the dramatic progress witnessed by the regional media industry during the last decade, Dr Al Rustamani underlined Dubai's infrastructure, hassle free environment and in-depth understanding of the industry as vital contributors to the growth.

Commenting on the increase in the number of TV channels in the region, she said: "Healthy competition is in the interest of the end user. It is important that viewers are provided with flexibility of choice through a wide range of options. Ultimately, it is the value added service and efficiency of operations that will determine the success of any service provider."

Jamal Al Sharif, Director of Dubai Studio City said: "Construction and development works are progressing on schedule. Landscaping and final road works are expected to be completed by first week of May for the boutique studios, following which DSC will begin handing over the first set of these studios.

"DSC's infrastructure is governed by the best international standards to ensure that our offerings meet the diverse requirements of our partners."

Dubai Studio City announced the launch of its massive sound stages complex in December 2006. With 14 sound stages ranging in size from 15,000 sq ft to 50,000sq. feet., the facilities will accommodate massive film production projects. The first three sound stages will be completed by mid 2008.