Filming permit in Dubai

A filming permit in Dubai is issued by the Dubai Film and TV Commission. Almost every professional or paid shoot — film, commercial, corporate, stills, broadcast — goes through that desk. We prepare the file and stand as the licensed UAE house on the application.

Who can apply

Khaleej Times, writing from the commission’s brief, reported that a person or company who wishes to film in Dubai must hire a licensed UAE-based production house. The commission publishes a list of houses. Foreign companies do not apply as themselves. Read how to hire a licensed house.

Script first

Scripted work usually needs script approval before the permit. Reporting says the full script is submitted even if only some sequences are shot here, and that approval can take up to 25 business days. The official FAQ has said script approval is free — confirm on the current FAQ.

What the file holds

Dates, locations, a crew list, kit (especially drones), insurance, and a no-objection letter from a private owner when the site is not public. The commission’s FAQ has said one permit can cover aerial and ground when both are in the same job. Drone days still need aviation paper — see drone filming in Dubai.

Fees and fines

Official charges and fine tables change. Khaleej Times published a commission fee and fine table. We do not reprint dirham figures here. Ask the commission, or ask us for an estimate that separates our work from official fees. Current terms: DFTC terms.

Crew visas

A filming permit is not a visa. Crew who must travel still need the correct entry. We coordinate the list; immigration remains an official process. Do not send passport scans in a first email.