As per Law No.15 of 2014, the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone Authority, was renamed as Dubai Creative Clusters Authority with a new mandate to lead the development of creative industries in Dubai to support the Dubai Strategy for Innovation. The Authority was launched in 2000 to establish Dubai as a worldwide hub for knowledge-based industries. DCCA is the main regulatory and administrative body for a number of well-known free zone parks in Dubai. In addition to managing the application procedures and issuing licenses for all new businesses, it also enforces and passes laws within its jurisdiction. Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai was appointed as Chairman of Dubai Creative Clusters Authority, and Ahmad Bin Byat as its Director General. The Authority is mandated to drive the growth of Dubai’s creative industries by developing policies and programmes to attract, retain and grow creative businesses in Dubai. DCCA has partnered with Dubai SME to support entrepreneurs and enhance the capabilities of the vital SME sector in the emirate. In June 2015, DCCA launched its first report, entitled, "Celebrating 15 years of success and a new mandate." The report provides details of the Authority’s new mandate and the ways in which it will support and enhance Dubai’s creative industries. It will be used as a benchmark to measure DCCA’s delivery against its mandate and is a stepping stone towards fulfilling the Authority’s role in providing research, intelligence and advocacy. DCCA regulates licensing, visa and zoning rules for free zones such as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Outsource Zone, Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, International Media Production Zone, Dubai Knowledge Village, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park, Energy and Environment Park and Dubai Design District. The Authority has successfully established industry councils and committees to champion key creative industries, investing AED 40 million annually towards the Dubai International Film Festival, Dubai Film and TV Commission, and Dubai Design and Fashion Council.
