The Creative Media Authority (CMA) has introduced The Circle, an innovative digital platform crafted to streamline and expedite business services for Abu Dhabi’s creative sector. This initiative was unveiled during a groundbreaking industry event, marking a significant shift as over 40 services will transition to a dedicated, paperless portal, enhancing efficiency and reducing application processing times.

This launch is in line with the UAE’s Year of Community 2025 initiative and underscores CMA’s dedication to nurturing a more interconnected and efficient creative ecosystem. The quarterly Circle event series will introduce dynamic themes, including AI and innovation, to foster new opportunities and stimulate industry dialogue.

Discussing the portal’s role in bringing together the creative sector, Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, stated: “In the Year of Community, we aim to transform how we support our diverse and talented pool of businesses and freelancers across Abu Dhabi. Together, they form a significant part of our expanding creative ecosystem. Through regular in-person engagements and a transformative digital portal, we will unite as a creative community to develop cohesive strategies that enhance our offerings for everyone’s benefit, as we strive to become a global content hub and the preferred destination for the world’s leading content creators.”

Upon registering on the portal, businesses and freelancers can access over 40 services starting today. Phase one includes the most commonly requested services, such as new business setup and renewals, alongside various support services like NOC requests, company share transfers, director changes, business name modifications, and alterations to business license activities. Freelancers can also apply for new licenses, cancel existing ones, modify licenses, and reactivate or renew freelance licenses.

This new interface not only simplifies processes—some applications are expected to take around 60 seconds—but also significantly reduces waiting times for application outcomes. For instance, service level targets for business renewals will be cut down to just 24 hours through The Circle Digital Portal.

Khalid Khouri, Director of Industry Development at the Creative Media Authority, remarked: “Through ongoing consultation and communication with our esteemed industry partners, we have launched a digital solution that enhances business and freelance support across multiple dimensions. The Circle provides a streamlined and optimized portal that improves application times for various services, making it easier for the creative community to thrive in Abu Dhabi.”

With phase one of The Circle portal now complete and phase two set to launch by May, our team is committed to rolling out even more services, with the goal of digitizing as much as possible by the end of June.