In the last major survey on podcast listeners, there were 1.3 million listeners in the UAE. That was in 2019 and that number has likely grown significantly since then. In fact, all indicators suggest that it has increased exponentially.

There are more and more podcasts being launched every day, covering every topic imaginable. But there is one area that makes all the difference when it comes to recording the actual podcast itself – and that’s choosing the right podcast studio in Dubai. This decision will have a serious impact on the quality of your content as well as the experience of your guests (and listeners).

So this guide is going to get into all the key questions you should ask before you take the plunge and book a podcast room in Dubai. By the end of the article you will have all the information you need to help you make an informed decision.

Questions to ask before choosing a podcast room in Dubai

Before you book any podcast space, you’ll need to list the key questions you want to ask so you ensure what you get truly meets your needs. The way a studio answers these questions will help you gauge how professional the studio is, whether it’s actually reliable – and most importantly whether it suits your podcasting needs. Regardless of your specific requirements, it’s always true that a well-equipped, flexible space with good admin and tech support will save you a great deal of time. And it’s going to elevate your podcast’s overall quality.

So let’s get into the questions you should ask. 

  • What equipment is provided? This is your starting point, to confirm whether the studio offers professional microphones, mixers, headphones, recording software, and so on. If you want professional audio then high-quality equipment is essential. 
  • Is the space soundproofed? It doesn’t matter how great the content of your podcast is, background noise can ruin it. So a soundproofed environment will mean your recordings are just about you, your guests and the topic at hand – with no distractions. 
  • What is the availability and booking process? Check if the studio offers flexible time slots and whether you can book last-minute or if you need to reserve a long time in advance. It’s also helpful if you can book a regular slot. 
  • Are technical staff on-site? On-site technicians offer great peace of mind. They can help you set up, solve problems, and create quality recordings at the end of the day. 
  • What are the costs and cancellation policies? Sometimes things come up and you have to cancel or re-arrange. Understanding the studio’s pricing structure (whether they charge hourly or offer packages) means you can plan more effectively, as well as knowing their policies and fees around rescheduling or cancellation. 

Importance of sound quality and acoustics

As we have mentioned, without high quality sound you really don’t have a podcast anyone is going to want to listen to. Podcast listeners expect clear, crisp audio. And that’s what you need if you want to gain credibility and retain your listenership.

So let’s break down why sound quality is so central to the success of your podcast:

  • Why soundproofing is critical: The last thing you want is extraneous noise like traffic or road works or people chatting in the hallway. So proper soundproofing will block out external noise and also importantly minimise echo. What you get in the end is a more polished recording.
  • Studio acoustics matter: Once you have ensured the place you’re going to record is properly soundproofed, the next step is to look at the actual acoustics. What this means is controlling reverberations and improving microphone performance so your voice sounds natural and professional. Listen to the most popular global podcasts and you’ll notice how well modulated the voices are, with no echo or other reverberations. 
  • How to evaluate sound quality: So you’re in the middle of the studio tour, how do you actually check for all of this? First, listen for echo or background noise. Better still, ask for sample recordings or even record a quick test clip to gauge the space’s acoustics. It’s worthwhile and it means that before you put your money down you know that the place is set up for the kind of recording you want. 

Flexibility, Support, and Added Services

There is a whole administrative side to podcasting that shouldn’t be overlooked since often podcaster have strict schedules, release dates of episodes, specific dates certain guests can attend, and so on. So beyond sound quality, a great podcast room should offer flexibility and support that fit your production schedule and technical needs.

Let’s break this down in more detail: 

  • Booking flexibility: Perhaps you’re looking for an hourly rental, or maybe daily use, or even some kind of longer-term monthly agreement. Regardless, knowing the podcast room is flexible allows you to scale your production as needed.
  • On-site technical support: There is no substitute for having experts on hand who can handle any technical issues as they come up. It’s very difficult to focus on the creative content side of podcasting if you’re spending half your time trying to solve technical issues. When it comes to live recordings or interviews with guests then this is even more critical. 
  • Additional services that enhance your experience: Look for studios that offer editing as well as recording, and are able to offer video recording of your podcasts so you can post full episodes or clips to YouTube and social media. Ask if they have live streaming capabilities, and what kind of guest amenities such as refreshments or waiting lounges are available. These kinds of extras add a level of professionalism and convenience to your workflow and how you appear to the people you’re collaborating with.

About One Business Centre

One Business Centre (OBC) offers modern, fully equipped podcast rooms in the heart of Dubai. With professional-grade equipment, soundproofed studios, flexible booking options, and on-site technical support, OBC is designed to support creators at every level. Whether you’re recording solo or hosting a panel, OBC ensures a seamless, high-quality experience.

Ready to see it for yourself? Come in for a free tour and discover why OBC is Dubai’s preferred podcasting destination.