Dubai Studio City nearly ready for action

Dubai Studio City (DSC) recently announced that 78% of the infrastructure is in place for phase one of the project, with construction to begin next month. AED1.2 billion has been spent so far for the project.

Phase one of Dubai Studio City will feature 18 boutique studios, three mega sound stages, four six-level office buildings, a 15-storey tower, retail area, a warehouse and a workshop.

"Although we aim to attract international production organisations, we would like to assure you that local talents will not be overlooked. Our optimum goal is to lay the foundation to enable a UAE film industry to grow and flourish. Fledgling film makers, as well as mega production companies will find Dubai Studio City the ideal location," said Dr. Amina Al Rustamani, executive director of Media, TECOM Investments.

The event also marked DSC's Location Approval Services (LAS) department's completion of two years in operation. LAS is the dedicated operational arm of Dubai Studio City, mandated with facilitating government permits for all photography and filming activities in Dubai.

Speaking about the project, Jamal Al Sharif, director of Dubai Studio City, added: "We are investing in developing state of the art facilities to help our partners proceed with their operations in a smooth and effective manner. More than 40 companies have been licensed by DSC so far, while eight more are in the negotiation stage."

Construction work at phase one of DSC's core production area is scheduled to start in June 2007. This will include three sound stages, starting with a 15,500 sq. ft. studio, which will be ready by Q2 2008. The other two sound stages will provide each 25,295 sq. ft of sound-proofed studio space. These are expected to be ready by Q3 2008. The three studios will be supported by similar size of office space totalling 65,000 sq. ft. to cater administration and operational requirements to sustain production activities.
The two larger stages can be connected with large elephant doors to create a 50,000 sq. ft stage. They will be equipped to meet the requirements of the most demanding big-budget productions.

Building operations starting in June will also include a 130,000 sq ft warehouse dedicated to production companies to store their materials and equipment. A similar 130,000 sq ft. area will also be allocated for a workshop for producing interior and exterior decorations and shooting locations sets.

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