Visual recorded media reproduction covers video and film duplication from master copies. Like its audio counterpart (1820.97), this sub-activity is a UAE-specific code that overlaps with the international 1820.02 code. Both target video and visual media duplication and offer essentially the same operational scope.

The global recordable optical disc market reached USD 2.63 billion in 2024,¹ with the media and entertainment segment representing roughly 35% of demand.² Visual media reproduction remains particularly relevant for institutional video archives, corporate training distribution, gaming media, and Blu-ray archival storage. M-Disc and gold-layer Blu-ray now provide archival data lifespans exceeding a century, making them attractive for legal, broadcast, and government records.

Dubai's role as a regional logistics hub gives visual media reproduction businesses access to GCC, African, and South Asian institutional markets, with steady B2B volume from training distributors and archival services.

1820.98 - Visual Recorded Media Reproduction

Under this activity, you are in the business of operating a licensed visual recorded media reproduction business, duplicating DVDs, Blu-ray, training videos, and archival visual media from master copies provided by rights holders.

Services are delivered under the relevant regulatory oversight with appropriate facilities, systems, and qualified personnel.¹

What Does the Visual Recorded Media Reproduction Licence Cover?

•             DVD and Blu-ray duplication: short-run and high-volume video disc replication.

•             Training video reproduction: corporate, technical, educational, and compliance training media.

•             Film and broadcast archival: long-term preservation of broadcast footage and film archives.

•             Gaming and entertainment media: physical game media for console and PC distribution.

•             Authoring, sleeves, and packaging: menu authoring, sleeve printing, and case assembly for finished video products.

Who Is This For?

•             Film and broadcast services duplicating training, educational, and archival video.

•             Corporate training distributors producing physical training media.

•             Gaming and entertainment distributors for consoles and PC platforms.

•             Archival services for legal, broadcast, and government video records.

Activity Scope

This sub-activity covers video and visual media duplication only. Audio (1820.01 or 1820.97) and software/data (1820.03) require additional codes.

In short: if you duplicate video discs from masters, you are in. If you produce original video, broadcast, or stream content, you need a different licence.

Licensing & Compliance

Standard free zone licensing applies. Copyright authorisation from rights holders is mandatory. UAE intellectual property law strictly enforces these requirements.

Cost & Investment

Setup costs at Dubai South Business Hub start from AED 12,500 per year for a flexi-desk package. Use the cost calculator for a tailored quote.

Setup Steps

1.          Verify name via company name check.

2.          Select Visual Recorded Media Reproduction (1820.98) from the business activities directory.

3.          Choose office package.

4.          Submit passport copies, MOA, office lease.

5.          Receive licence within 5 to 10 working days.

6.          Process visas.

Why Dubai for Visual Recorded Media Reproduction?

Dubai's logistics infrastructure connects GCC, African, and South Asian institutional video markets. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and tax efficiency. The UAE's investment in archival infrastructure for legal, broadcast, and government records keeps Blu-ray archival duplication a viable niche.

References

1.          Maximize Market Research, Recordable Optical Disc Market: maximizemarketresearch.com

2.          Deep Market Insights, Recordable Optical Disc Market: deepmarketinsights.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this licence cover?

Duplication of visual media including DVDs, Blu-ray, training videos, and archival video from master copies provided by rights holders.

How is 1820.98 different from 1820.02?

Both cover video and visual media duplication. 1820.98 is a UAE-specific code while 1820.02 follows international ISIC numbering. Operational scope is essentially the same.

Can I produce original video content?

No, original production has a separate code. This licence covers duplication only.

How much does setup cost?

From AED 12,500 to AED 18,000 annually depending on office package.

Is video media still relevant given streaming?

Yes, institutional archives, training distribution, gaming media, and Blu-ray archival continue to drive B2B demand.

Can I include menu authoring and packaging?

Yes, authoring and packaging assembly are standard parts of visual media reproduction.

How long does setup take?

5 to 10 working days for licence issuance.

What rights are needed for duplication?

Written authorisation from the rights holder for any content duplicated.

Is third-party approval required?

No third-party approval beyond standard free zone requirements.

Can I duplicate Blu-ray and DVD under one licence?

Yes, both formats are covered.

Is the licence renewable annually?

Yes, annual renewal is standard.

Can I serve clients globally?

Yes, free zone licences allow global invoicing.

Can I add audio or software reproduction later?

Yes, additional sub-activities can be added at renewal.