People search “drone permit Dubai” as if one stamp covers the sky. It does not. Commercial drone filming in Dubai is usually three permissions: the drone and operator registered with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, a flight approval from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority for work inside the emirate, and a filming permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission for the pictures you take.
Why three desks
GCAA certifies the machine, the pilot and the operating company at federal level. DCAA signs the flight in Dubai’s airspace. DFTC permits the footage. None of those letters replaces another. The commission’s FAQ has said drone and broadcasting applications can be filed on the new portal, and that aerial and ground filming can sit on one permit when the project needs both.
Who flies
Federal rules require a UAE-based operator for commercial unmanned flights. Visiting productions hire a licensed local operator; they do not unpack a tourist drone at a landmark. We work with operators who already hold the aviation paper. We do not publish a no-fly map or a price for a flight — those belong to GCAA, DCAA and the operator you book.
The filming side
The DFTC application still needs the usual file: dates, locations, kit list, insurance, and a licensed UAE production house as applicant. Aerial location fees, when the commission publishes them, live on their site — not here.
What to write us
Say the shots, the days, and whether the same day also needs ground cameras. We will tell you if the brief is a film day with a drone, or a drone day that still needs a house. lata@carvingdreamsevent.com.
Questions
- Can I fly a tourist drone for a brand film?
- Commercial camera work needs a licensed operator and the filming permit. Do not assume a hobby registration covers a paid shoot.
- One permit for air and ground?
- The official FAQ has said yes, when both are in the same application. Confirm on the current portal.
- Do you publish drone prices?
- No. Ask the licensed operator and the authorities.
Ready when you are.