As Dubai continues to establish itself as a global hub for entertainment, fashion and sport, the talent management industry here is growing fast. The city’s strategic location, robust infrastructure and high living standards make it an attractive destination for both talent and clients seeking professional representation, with considerable opportunities for those with the right experience, skills and drive to manage them. Are you considering a move into this dynamic industry?
What is a talent management agency in Dubai?
A talent management agency represents and manages high-profile or specialised individuals, such as actors, models, musicians, athletes and influencers. These agencies will usually help their clients find and negotiate work, build their careers and connect them with brands and events that can boost their profile.
How to start a talent management agency in Dubai: Step-by-step
To help give you an idea of what to expect when starting a talent management agency in Dubai, we’ve broken down the process into five steps:
Step 1: Define your niche
Talent management is a broad sector, encompassing a wide range of industries in Dubai. For the best chance of success, you need to decide whether you want to represent individuals with specific skills – for example, models, actors, influencers – or a mix of celebrities and high-profile individuals. You will also need to firm up your services. For instance, will you offer an array of services or will you specialise in a specific area, such as career management or event bookings?
Once you have nailed down this information, you can develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, strategies and projections.
Step 2: Choose where to set up your business
When it comes to business structures, most talent management agencies decide to set up in a free zone or on the mainland. Both offer significant but different, advantages. For example, setting up a mainland business allows you to work with businesses all across the UAE while operating from a free zone allows you to benefit from significant tax advantages and an easier, more streamlined business setup process.
Step 3: Register your business
You will need to register your business and provide proof of registration to apply for a license. Ensure that your business name meets the UAE’s naming conventions, being careful to avoid any potentially offensive or blasphemous language. Once you have registered your business, you can apply for a license. The processing time and fees vary depending on the jurisdiction. You will not be able to operate your business legally until this license has been approved.
Step 4: Launch your business
Once you have received your license, you can launch your business. You might want to host a stylish opening event or exclusive showcase to attract industry professionals.
Step 5: Build your brand and build your network
If this is your first foray into talent management in the UAE, you will need to build up a client base – fast. Recruit clients through auditions or networking and consider building partnerships with brands, events and production companies. You will also need to build a strong digital presence, including a professional website, engaging social media and a persuasive portfolio, to attract talent and clients.
Benefits of starting a talent management agency in Dubai
Dubai offers a whole range of benefits for aspiring talent management professionals including:
Access to a diverse talent pool
Over 90% of Dubai’s population are expats. This diversity allows talent agencies to represent a wide range of models, influencers, actors and performers who appeal to both regional and global brands.
Tax-free business environment
With 0% personal income and capital gains tax, low corporate tax rates and 100% foreign ownership, Dubai is the ideal destination for savvy entrepreneurs looking to boost the bottom line and push their profits further.
Government support
The government is famously supportive of startups and SMEs and has introduced a string of initiatives to make it easier to launch a business over the past few years, from flexible visa options to streamlined business setups.
Thriving entertainment industry
The entertainment industry in Dubai has exploded in the past few years. Major festivals like the Dubai International Film Festival attract filmmakers from all over the world, while events like Expo 2020 (and its ongoing legacy) have created a sustained demand for public speakers, performers and corporate talent.
Proximity to global media
Dubai is a regional hub for major media giants and international film production houses, all of which require local talent. This proximity makes it easier to secure major collaborations and projects.
How to scale a talent management agency in Dubai
Once you have launched your business, you will need to start thinking about expansion. Here are three tried-and-tested tactics for scaling your business, without impacting your operations in the short term:
Diversify your services
Move beyond your day-to-day offering and add more services to your business. For example, you could launch a digital talent division to represent TikTokers or introduce corporate training and coaching for public speakers.
Go Global
If you exclusively operate in the UAE, you could leverage Dubai’s strategic position at the gateway to the Middle East and expand your services into Saudi Arabia, Qatar and beyond. Form cross-border relationships by attending global expos and offering remote talent bookings to reach broader client bases.
Establish a strong digital presence.
Create a high-end website, optimise your content and invest in a social media strategy that drives engagement and attracts international clients looking for Dubai-based talent.
Top 3 talent management agencies in Dubai
Dubai is not short on top talent management agencies, but here are three big names to keep an eye on:
Motivate Talent
Motivate Talent is a leading talent and entertainment agency in Dubai that offers a diverse range of high-profile speakers for corporate events, weddings, private parties and festivals. With a global reach spanning over 43 countries, they provide high-quality entertainment, including musicians, dancers, DJs, and speciality acts.
Michelle Hay Management
Michelle Hay Management is a premier model and talent agency based in Dubai that caters to the Middle East and Europe. The agency represents a wide spectrum of talent, including female and male models, photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists and stylists. They work closely with luxury fashion brands, editorial magazines, and creative agencies.
MMG Talent
MMG Talent is an online casting platform in Dubai that connects aspiring and professional talent with casting professionals across various industries. They specialise in representing actors, models, voice-over artists, presenters and influencers, offering a streamlined platform for clients to find and book talent efficiently.
About Set Hub.
With over 15 years of business setup experience in Dubai, Set Hub offers a comprehensive suite of solutions including company formation, visa applications, corporate banking, tax and accounting, brand and marketing and office spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned agent or just at the beginning of your talent management journey, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our friendly team of advisors today to find out how we can help you navigate the process of setting up a business in Dubai.
