Filming In Abu Dhabi

FAQs

Script Clearance Procedures Types Of Filming Permits Customs Clearance Procedures Working Visas

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Script Clearance Procedures

Do I require script clearance for my production?

Yes, you do. All scripts, treatments, storyboards, and series synopsis need to be approved by the Creative Media Authority – in advance of any production.

Can anyone help me understand what would be, and what would not be, deemed acceptable?

ADFC is available to advise on what content is, and what is not, likely to be deemed as appropriate in terms of meeting the cultural, social, and religious sensitivities of the United Arab Emirates. In addition, to assist applicants, there is a code of content available for downloaded.

What Is The Procedure To Obtain Clearance For My Script?

Applicants are encouraged to apply for content approval as early as possible.

To apply for content approval please <click here>.

Is There A Charge For Script Approval?

This service is chargeable by the Creative Media Authority. To find out more <click here>

For more information on fees, please contact:

PHONE: +971 2 412 1111

EMAIL: customersupport@cma.gov.ae

Types Of Filming Permits

What do you mean by Public or Private Permit?

A Private Location Permit (a.k.a. location agreement) is for locations owned or managed by private entities, such as: hotels, leisure facilities, mosques, shopping malls, restaurants, etc. A Public Ground Permit is for all other types of locations, such as: deserts, roads, islands, bridges, Government buildings, etc.

How Do I Get A Public Ground Filming Permit?

To submit for a filming permit <click here>

For any further enquiries, please contact the Creative Media Authority:

PHONE: +971 2 412 1111

EMAIL: customersupport@cma.gov.ae

How Do I Get A Private Location Permit?

In order to obtain a Private Location Permit (or multiple permits, if required), you need to contact the private entity, directly. For guidance on private locations and the permitting process, please email locations@film.gov.ae

How Do I Get An Aerial Filming Permit?

If you plan to capture aerial footage for TV, cinema, or digital content, you must first obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Creative Media Authority. Additional approvals may also be required from relevant authorities and site owners, as applicable.

Abu Dhabi Film Commission recommends hiring an Abu Dhabi registered drone company for any aerial filming. Here is a link to the industry directory where you will find production companies registered to fly a drone.

To apply for an aerial filming permit <click here>

For any further enquiries, please contact the Creative Media Authority:

PHONE: +971 2 412 1111

EMAIL: customersupport@cma.gov.ae

How Do I Get A Marine Filming Permit?

You require a marine permit for filming purposes for content in television, cinema and digital.

To apply for a marine filming permit <click here>

For any further enquiries, please contact the Creative Media Authority:

PHONE: +971 2 412 1111

EMAIL: customersupport@cma.gov.ae

Is There A Charge For Filming Permits?

This service is chargeable by the Creative Media Authority. To find out more <click here>

For any further enquiries, please contact the Creative Media Authority:

PHONE: +971 2 412 1111

EMAIL: customersupport@cma.gov.ae

How Long Does It Take To Get Filming Permits?

CMA review and issuance usually require 5–15 working days once complete documents are provided.

Is It The Same Charge For Photographic And Film Permits?

Yes. For information on filming costs please contact Creative Media Authority at:

PHONE: +971 2 412 1111

EMAIL: customersupport@cma.gov.ae

Customs Clearance Procedures

What Are The Procedures To Bring Film Or Photographic Equipment Into Abu Dhabi

Visiting media teams bringing cameras and film equipment into Abu Dhabi on a temporary basis must obtain a Media Equipment Entry Permit.

To apply for media equipment entry permit <click here>

For any further enquiries, please contact the Creative Media Authority:

PHONE: +971 2 412 1111

EMAIL: customersupport@cma.gov.ae

Are there any charges for bringing in film and photographic equipment?

This service is chargeable by the Creative Media Authority

For more information about filming and photography equipment charges please contact the Creative Media Authority:

PHONE: +971 2 412 1111

EMAIL: customersupport@cma.gov.ae

Does it matter if I enter the country via Dubai or another Emirate?

Yes, it does. If entering the country through any port other than Abu Dhabi, you will need to deal with their respective customs authority.

Does it matter if I depart the country via Dubai or another Emirate?

Yes, it does. In order to reclaim your cash deposit, you need to exit the country from the same port that you entered.

Working Visas

Do I, or any of my cast and crew, require visas to work in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, you do. All international (meaning non-Emirati residents) require a valid visa to work in Abu Dhabi.

What type of visa do I need?

Each international member of cast and crew requires a visa that grants permission to work in Abu Dhabi for up to 90 days – with the ability to extend.

How much does the visa cost?

Costs vary depending on the agency provider.