
Abu Dhabi Unveils New Cashback Rebate Starting from 35%++ at MIPCOM 2024 to Further Boost Film and TV Production in the Capital
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Abu Dhabi Film Commission part of the Creative Media Authority have announced a significant rebate update to the world’s film production industry which is set to fuel further international interest in shooting from the Emirate
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Unveiled at the leading b2b event, MIPCOM, the Abu Dhabi Film Commission will increase their cashback rebate for qualifying productions from 1 January 2025
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Abu Dhabi was the first destination within the region to offer a cashback rebate and have supported more than 150 major productions since its inception in 2013.
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An increase in the rebate will not only support inmarket production and postproduction but will also benefit those in the wider ecosystem from private sector business to local young filmmakers
Abu Dhabi, UAE – 22 October 2024: Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) part Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority (CMA), today announced a key development which will continue to grow strengthen and attract strategic investment in the film and TV production industry.
ADFC is increasing the current rebate offering from 30% to starting at 35%++. For all qualified productions who apply from 1 January 2025, this will entice further production from Hollywood, Bollywood and the Arab world to shoot in Abu Dhabi. Hosting blockbuster production shoots not only significantly contributes to the local economy through transport, logistics and accommodation, but leads to unbeatable showcasing opportunities for the destination, which in turn contributes to several sectors including tourism.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of Creative Media Authority said: “The importance of the film and production industry continues to grow under the vision and guidance of our wise leadership. We are proud to have been the first destination to offer a rebate scheme and are a regional prioneer with a proven track record. The updated financial rebate support will ensure we continue attracting international producers and directors from all over the world and become known as a leading destination for film and TV production both globally and regionally. This new rebate system is based off global best practice and will ensure we bring more of Abu Dhabi to the world through individual content consumption”.
This is the first development resulting from of a comprehensive review and enhancment across all of the creative industry verticals to ensure an even more attractive offering for a thriving industry in Abu Dhabi; an industry which actively contriubutes to the economy of the region.” Continued Dobay.
Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission added: “Since launching our rebate scheme in 2013, more than 150 major productions have benefited from the offering. This generates a huge impact on our economy as independently verified research shows that for every dirham paid through the scheme, more than three dirhams flows back into the economy through hosting large scale productions in the Emirate. Alongside the financial stimulus into the economy, visiting productions provide a tremendous learning and training opportunity for young creatives who are the nation’s storytellers of the future, this focus ensures a strong self sustaining industry. As we near the release of the rebate on 1 January 2025, further information will be shared in the lead up with our existing production industry database.”
This new development in Abu Dhabi is set to fuel an already extensive ecosystem, as a significantly enhanced rebate financial benefits, more than 800 locally-based media companies (more than 300 of whom are production specific) the 1000-strong freelancer talent pool, young individuals looking for training and internship opportunities and the new golden visa programme, all of which complement the new, state-of-the-art production facilities called “twofour54 Studios”.
Attending MIPCOM until 24 October, the team has a large presence in Cannes and is showcasing Abu Dhabi’s incredible variety of locations, which are accessed through a safe and welcoming environment, to the world’s production leaders. Travelling with CMA, ADFC and twofour54 are 14 production industry partners who will further enhance the offering at the event, bridging the gap between public and private sector offering on an international stage.
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Abu Dhabi will again return as a principal shooting location for the next chapter in Denis Villeneuve’s cinematic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s classic science fiction saga Dune.
Legendary Entertainment confirmed today that production on the highly anticipated third installment will return to Abu Dhabi’s picturesque Liwa desert with its cinematic towering sand dunes and golden expansive horizon once again as the backdrop to the mythical planet of Arrakis. The film will continue the sweeping saga of Paul Atreides and the complex legacy of this empirical rule.
Filming in the desert city will begin later this year with Creative Media Authority Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Film Commission providing essential logistical support, and Image Nation serving as production partner.
The film, a continuation of the Academy Award®-winning franchise from Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures, will benefit from the cashback rebate offered by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission.
Abu Dhabi has served as the backdrop for more than 180 major film and television productions through the introduction of the cashback rebate, including F1® The Movie, Mission: Impossible, Star Wars, Fast and Furious, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Netflix’s 6 Underground and War Machine — a reflection of the emirate’s diverse locations, talent pool, and filmmaking incentives.

Organised by Creative Media Authority and Abu Dhabi Film Commission in collaboration with Ethara, the event marked the first movie premiere to be held on an active F1 racetrack in the region
Abu Dhabi, UAE, 5 August 2025: In a cinematic first for the region, Yas Marina Circuit was transformed into a one-of-a-kind cinema to host the regional premiere of a major international film production. The unprecedented event showcased the emirate’s capabilities to deliver high-profile film moments at iconic locations, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s as a global hub for both filmmaking and red carpet premieres.
Organised by Creative Media Authority in partnership with Ethara, operator of Yas Marina Circuit, the landmark event welcomed more than 1,000 guests for a special nighttime screening of the movie in a custom-built cinema, constructed on Turn 5 of the famous circuit. The cinema’s footprint was the size of two football fields, seated 700, featured 135 speakers and built in a record two weeks to provide guests the perfect setting to view the box-office smash which features key on-screen scenes of the Yas Marina Circuit, Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and Abu Dhabi for more than 35 minutes.
The featured film, shot extensively in Abu Dhabi over 29 days across three separate production periods, includes more than 35 minutes of high-octane scenes filmed in and around Yas Marina Circuit, during a major motorsport weekend, and throughout the city’s skyline and landmarks. The production was supported by the Creative Media Authority (CMA) and Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) under the ADFC rebate programme. In addition to financial incentives, the production received full-spectrum support across permits, logistics, and inter-agency coordination, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s end-to-end production ecosystem.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General, Creative Media Authority, added: “This was a proud moment not just for our creative sector, but for everyone who contributed to making Abu Dhabi a truly premier destination for major international productions. To host a regional premiere on a working racetrack featuring scenes filmed right here in the city, is a bold testament to the infrastructure, ambition and collaborative spirit that define our ecosystem.”
Ethara, which operates Yas Marina Circuit and organises the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, welcomed the event as another proud achievement for the iconic track which has gained global recognition for its innovation, entertainment and culture since being opened in 2009.
Ali Al Beshr, General manager of Yas Marina Circuit at Ethara, said: “To see Yas Marina Circuit not only featured in a major Hollywood production, but also selected as the site of its regional premiere, is a powerful moment for Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, and for all our partners involved in the Grand Prix each year. It reflects how the event, and the city, have evolved into global cultural landmarks that transcend sport.”
Yas Marina Circuit remains one of the world’s most advanced motorsport venues, hosting year-round racing, community programmes and corporate events. It will again take centre stage when the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix returns from 5 to 8 December, serving as the season finale for the 14th time.

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 31 July 2025: Following the release of the trailer by Yash Raj Films, the Creative Media Authority (CMA) and Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) have announced Abu Dhabi to be the key filming location for War 2. The highly anticipated sequel to the box office blockbuster, War (2019), War 2 is the biggest Indian film to release on 14 August 2025. This is the sixth instalment from the YRF Spy Universe, the biggest movie IP of Indian cinema.
Directed by Ayan Mukerji and produced by Aditya Chopra under the Yash Raj Films banner, War 2 stars two of the biggest cinematic icons of India Hrithik Roshan and NTR who are celebrating their 25th year in cinema with War 2. In a gripping continuation of the epic spy tale, this time film fans will find that India’s top Agent Kabir aka Hrithik has gone rogue and Agent Vikram aka NTR is in his pursuit to bring him to justice!
Also starring Bollywood superstar Kiara Advani, the feature action film promises all the expected thrills and high octane, gritty drama – with exhilarating shots of Abu Dhabi and Yas Island locations.
War 2 marks the 14th Indian film production to be shot in Abu Dhabi with the support from CMA and ADFC, underlining the Emirate’s strong track record as a trusted partner for the Indian film industry. It is also the third collaboration with Yash Raj Films, following the successful productions of Tiger Zinda Hai – which is also part of the YRF Spy Universe - and Bunty Aur Babli 2. These repeat partnerships reflect Abu Dhabi’s growing stature as a world-class destination for Indian film’s biggest productions.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority commented, “India’s film industry remains at the forefront of partnerships we are establishing and growing with production teams like Yash Raj Films, whose legacy spans over five decades, brings incredible talent into our nation to see all that Abu Dhabi has to offer in terms of variety of location, established industry talent, experienced and supportive film commission and of course financial assistance so that Abu Dhabi continues to attract global production from India and beyond.”
Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission said, “The recent trailer release has certainly engaged film fans and heightened the anticipation for War 2, and for the local crew, including three talented interns, the countdown to what promises to be an electrifying follow-up to War, has begun. We look forward to seeing Abu Dhabi on the big screens in cinemas across the world and also feel immense pride at our collective and wide-ranging efforts which have established Abu Dhabi as a home for Indian cinema as this is our 14th major Indian film production to be supported in the Emirate.”
War 2 is slated for a worldwide theatrical release this year on 14 August and will be available in the Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu languages. It is one of 180 major productions supported under the rebate initiative of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, part of Creative Media Authority.

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 3 July 2025: Following the regional premiere of F1: The Movie which took place in a showstopping setting at Yas Marina Circuit, a special “Making Of” video has been released, with highlights and cast and crew comments on how some of the most adrenaline-charged scenes were captured during the 2024 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Celebrating Abu Dhabi’s starring role in the film’s creation and bringing the story full circle, the footage and images follows a red-carpet premiere event which was held on a custom-built cinema set directly on the circuit, transporting guests into the heart of the film, a real-life location that served as both a key filming ground and a central narrative backdrop.
Newly released behind-the-scenes images and footage reveal the scale and ambition of the Abu Dhabi shoot, featuring exclusive interviews with director Joseph Kosinski, producer Jerry Bruckheimer, and lead actor Brad Pitt as they reflect on their experience filming in the UAE capital. Kosinski described it as a “privilege to film in Abu Dhabi,” citing its stunning locations, unwavering support, and the warmth of the people as key factors that made it a special place to create. Bruckheimer praised the “phenomenal cooperation” from local partners and expressed deep appreciation for the effort that brought the film’s vision to life. Pitt added simply, “Abu Dhabi is so awesome,” capturing the cast’s appreciation for the unique setting and experience.
F1: The Movie, which is showing in cinemas now, was shot in Abu Dhabi on three separate occasions, totalling 29 filming days across iconic sites including Yas Marina Circuit, Zayed International Airport, and twofour54 Studios. Key racing sequences were shot live during the Grand Prix, a cinematic first showcasing and a testament to city’s ability to enable groundbreaking storytelling.
The project was made possible through the close collaboration of the Creative Media Authority (CMA), Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC), and local production partner Epic Films. More than 280 local crew members supported the shoot, alongside 15 UAE-based interns, who were embedded within the international production team to gain hands-on experience.
The production further underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a world-class hub for cinematic storytelling. With its iconic architecture, seamless production support, infrastructure, and production rebates, the Emirate has already attracted major global franchises including Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One and Dune: Part Two and continues to rise as a destination of choice for international filmmakers.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, commented: "From production to premiere, Abu Dhabi has played a signature role in bringing this story to life. This project is a milestone for our filmmaking ecosystem, from the scale of the collaboration to the depth of local talent involved. Hosting the premiere on the circuit is a proud moment for the Emirate."
Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, added: "This film demonstrates the full scope of what Abu Dhabi offers as a global production destination. From live Grand Prix shoots to seamless logistics and a deeply skilled local crew, F1: The Movie is a prime example of how our rebate programme and ecosystem can support world-class filmmaking from start to finish."
The Abu Dhabi premiere experience featured a specially curated guest journey, including Formula 1 racing simulators, a close-up viewing of the official APXGP car, and exclusive access to props from the film, such as the helmet and racing suit featured on screen, further transporting attendees into the world of F1: The Movie.
The event marked the conclusion the film’s global rollout, marking a full-circle moment at one of its most iconic filming locations. F1: The Movie was produced by Apple Studios in collaboration with Formula 1 Management, the FIA, and all 10 Formula 1 teams, and is distributed globally by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film is now screening in cinemas worldwide.

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 26 June 2025: Abu Dhabi rolled out the red carpet for the highly anticipated regional premiere of F1: The Movie, delivering an unforgettable cinematic celebration on Yas Marina Circuit, one of the film’s most iconic filming locations. The event featured a purpose-built cinema, special guest activations, and a red carpet attended by film pioneers and special guests.
The red carpet welcomed influential figures, including senior leadership from the Creative Media Authority (CMA) and Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC), who partnered closely on the production, were joined by representatives from key supporting partners including Etihad Airways, the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, and Yas Marina Circuit.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, commented: "This premiere reflects the power of collaboration across Abu Dhabi’s creative ecosystem. By transforming Yas Marina Circuit into a one-of-a-kind cinema experience, we have shown what is possible when regional talent, partners and robust infrastructure come together. It is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a hub for world-class productions."
Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, added: "Bringing F1: The Movie to life and transforming Yas Marina Circuit into a live production set reflects the versatility and capability of Abu Dhabi as a filming destination. The project also highlights the strength of our rebate programme, the commitment of our local crews, and the collective support of our partners across the Emirate."
The premiere event also aligned with the film’s full production wrap, which was completed during the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit in December 2024. This marked the first time a feature film captured on-track action during a live Formula 1 race weekend.
The guest experience featured driving simulators, exclusive car displays, and partner watch showcases, reflecting the wider world of Formula 1 and the global partners involved in both the sport and the film’s production. It also included displays of the official APXGP Formula 1 car and the APXGP race helmet worn by Damson Idris at the Met Gala earlier this year, bringing key elements of the film and the sport to life for attendees.
F1: The Movie filmed extensively across Abu Dhabi during three separate production visits, with support from ADFC’s rebate programme. Over 29 filming days, the production engaged 284 local crew members and multiple interns through CMA’s talent development programmes. Filming took place across multiple locations including Yas Marina Circuit, Zayed International Airport, and twofour54 Studios at Yas Creative Hub, with local production services delivered by Epic Films. The premiere event itself was further supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who contributed across guest services, red carpet management, and logistical coordination.
The film was produced by Apple Studios in collaboration with Formula 1 Management, FIA, and all 10 Formula 1 teams, and is distributed globally by Warner Bros. Pictures. It is now screening in cinemas across the region from 26 June 2025.

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 24 April 2025 – Abu Dhabi residents might have captured an exciting glimpse of several scenes from Lionsgate’s highly anticipated movie Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, which wrapped an action-packed 13-day shoot across iconic locations in the capital.
The star-studded cast of the film, including Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, Ariana Greenblatt, with Rosamund Pike, and Morgan Freeman, brought their magic to life across Yas Island and other Abu Dhabi landmarks, including breathtaking locations like Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Bridge, and the stunning Liwa desert. When the film hits screens later this year, fans will recognise landmarks including CLYMB and Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina Circuit, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, and several Abu Dhabi streets, where thrilling scenes and stunts have been filmed.
With the assistance of 175 local crew including the team at Epic Films, six UAE-based aspiring filmmakers secured internships on set through the talent development arm of the CMA, creative lab. These interns were exposed to on-set learning experiences and were able to apply their creative lab training, whilst seeing how an anticipated international blockbuster shoots on location.
Matt Leonetti, president, physical production for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said, “The Now You See Me films have always taken audiences on global adventures, and this film is no exception. Abu Dhabi’s iconic locations and incredible people will be part of what makes this film so enjoyable and memorable for worldwide audiences.”
Mohamed Dobay, Acting General Director of Creative Media Authority, said: “We are thrilled to have been a key filming location for the Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, seamlessly facilitating and wrapping yet another international Hollywood production in just 13 days across multiple iconic locations. The Lionsgate team benefited not only from Abu Dhabi Film Commission’s financial rebate offering, but also from the support of our key partners, Miral Destinations, facilitating key filming locations and last but not least the expertise of our local crew, facilitated by Epic Films. The involvement of 175 skilled local crew members and six enthusiastic young talents from our community further highlights the growing strength of Abu Dhabi’s film industry. We eagerly anticipate the release this November, when audiences will see some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic locations come to life on screen."
Liam Findlay, CEO, Miral Destinations, which manages several of the production locales, said "At Miral Destinations, we are proud to collaborate with global productions like Lionsgate’s next Now You See Me film, further establishing Yas Island as a premier destination for world-class entertainment and leisure. This accomplishment reflects the seamless cooperation with ADFC and key Abu Dhabi stakeholders, providing unrivalled access to iconic locations on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. Building on the success of previous international projects, as well as our high-profile Yas Island campaigns featuring A-list ambassadors such as Kevin Hart, Jason Momoa, and Ryan Reynolds, we remain committed to creating unforgettable experiences for both visitors and production partners."
Set for release this November, the heist thriller film benefits from Abu Dhabi Film Commission’s leading support including a cashback rebate and multi-layered logistical advice. Ruben Fleischer, the superstar director of the blockbuster hits Zombieland, Venom, and Uncharted, takes the helm. The film’s screenplay’s is by Seth Grahame-Smith and Michael Lesslie and Paul Wernick & Rhett Reese, with a story by Eric Warren Singer, based on characters created by Boaz Yakin & Edward Ricourt. The film is produced by Bobby Cohen, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci.
Now You See Me: Now You Don’t is among more than 180 major productions that have used Abu Dhabi as a location in recent years, benefiting from the diversity of its locations, pool of talented professionals, award-winning facilities and generous 35%++ cashback rebate. Alongside hotly anticipated future releases like F1, the major productions include Hollywood hits such as Dune, Dune: Part Two, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Netflix’s 6 Underground and War Machine as well as franchises Mission: Impossible, Star Wars and Fast and Furious.

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Click HERE to watch the trailer.
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The Four Horsemen return along with a new generation of illusionists performing mind-melding twists, turns, surprises, and magic unlike anything ever captured on film.
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Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, Ariana Greenblatt, with Rosamund Pike, and Morgan Freeman are seen bringing the heist straight to Abu Dhabi.
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Based on characters created by Boaz Yakin & Edward Ricourt. Story by Eric Warren Singer. Screenplay by Seth Grahame-Smith and Michael Lesslie and Paul Wernick & Rhett Reese. Directed by Ruben Fleischer.
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Now You See Me: Now You Don’t is set for release this November.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – April 29, 2025 Prepare for mind-blowing illusions and adrenaline-pumping stunts as the official trailer for Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, the third instalment of the blockbuster Lionsgate franchise drops, showcasing stunning Abu Dhabi locations as they take center stage!
Collaboration between Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority, Abu Dhabi Film Commission and Miral, seamlessly facilitating and wrapping yet another international Hollywood production in just 13 days across multiple iconic locations, from leisure and thrills across Yas Island, including scenes of the iconic W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Yas Marina Circuit and Formula 1 car chasing action on the streets of Yas Island and Sheikh Zayed Bridge, to the artistic grandeur of the Louvre Abu Dhabi in Saadiyat Island, how many spectacular locations can you spot?

“F1” will premiere globally in theatres in partnership with Warner Bros. Pictures on 27 June 2025
Made in partnership with Formula 1® and produced by seven-time F1 world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Plan B Entertainment, the highly anticipated film stars Pitt, Damson Idris, Academy Award-nominee Kerry Condon, Academy Award-winner Javier Bardem, and Emmy Award-winner, Golden Globe Award nominee Tobias Menzies, Sarah Niles, Kim Bodnia and Samson Kayo
Wrapping filming on the Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a team of 284 including both Pitt and Damson Idris spent 29 days in total filming in the emirate over three separate occasions, supported by local production partner; Epic Films
With the 2024 Formula 1 racing season concluded, Apple Original Films today announced that its highly anticipated feature film “F1” has wrapped production at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in partnership with the Creative Media Authority and Abu Dhabi Film Commission. Starring Brad Pitt, and hailing from director Joseph Kosinski, Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Plan B Entertainment, and seven-time Formula 1 world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton’s Dawn Apollo Films banner, “F1", produced by Apple Studios, will be distributed in theatres globally and in IMAX® by Warner Bros. Pictures in North America on 27 June 2025 and internationally beginning 25 June 2025.
Made in collaboration with Formula 1®, “F1” is immersed in the exhilarating and cinematic world of Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport. Filmed during actual Grand Prix weekends around the world, the feature stars Brad Pitt as a former driver who returns to Formula 1, alongside Damson Idris as his team mate at APXGP, a fictional team on the grid as they compete against the titans of the sport. The star-studded ensemble cast also includes Academy Award-winner Javier Bardem, Academy Award-nominee Kerry Condon, Emmy Award-winner, Golden Globe Award nominee Tobias Menzies, Sarah Niles, Kim Bodnia and Samson Kayo.
“F1” is directed by Kosinski (“Top Gun: Maverick”), who produces the feature alongside seven-time Formula 1 world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton under his Dawn Apollo Films banner; Jerry Bruckheimer and Chad Oman of Jerry Bruckheimer Films; Pitt, Dede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner for Plan B Entertainment; and, Kosinski for Monolith Pictures. The film is made in collaboration with Formula 1 and the whole F1 community - including Formula 1 Management, the 10 teams, F1 drivers and the FIA. Academy Award-nominee Ehren Kruger (“Top Gun: Maverick”) wrote the screenplay.
With 29 days of production happening in Abu Dhabi at the world-famous Yas Marina Circuit, Zayed International Airport and twofour54 Studios at Yas Creative Hub, cast including Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Codon and Javier Bardem and an international production team were supported by a local crew of 284 and the team at Epic Films, 15 young local interns and Abu Dhabi Film Commission under its rebate scheme. “F1” is one of 170 major productions supported by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission since the introduction of the rebate in 2013.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority commented, “Our collective efforts and wise leadership continue to ensure that we secure such exciting partnerships with leading production teams like Apple Original Films. More recently the third and final shoot in Abu Dhabi garnered international interest as we facilitated extensive production at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix which has led to our first partnership with Apple Original Films’ “F1,” among the most hotly anticipated releases of 2025. We look forward to seeing Abu Dhabi’s iconic locations on the big screen and also working with Apple Original Films in the future, with production teams across the world reaping the benefits of a safe and secure working environment and established talent pool alongside financial, logistical and technical on ground support from Abu Dhabi Film Commission.”
Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission said, “We were delighted to be able to support the extensive and varied production programme which saw the international crew and cast visiting the nation on three separate occassions; totalling 29 days of on-ground production. As well as featuring on screen Emirati talent, more than 284 of local crew worked on this production, joining 15 passionate young individuals who took work placements on set, including five Emirati youth as part of our commitment to nurture talent for the creative industries from within.”

- Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve and stars Josh Brolin and Dave Bautista were joined by special guests and VIPs at the official Middle East premiere at VOX Cinemas, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island ahead of the film’s UAE release on the 29th of February.
- Abu Dhabi’s sweeping Liwa desert dunes take a starring role as the storied planet Arrakis in the epic film.
- Villeneuve, Brolin, and Bautista returned to Abu Dhabi for production in 2021 and spent nearly a month in the dunes shooting vital parts of the second installment of the Dune franchise, which was supported by Abu Dhabi Film Commission
Abu Dhabi, UAE – 19 February 2024: The region’s premiere of Dune: Part Two, took place on the evening of 18 February at VOX Cinemas, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi much to the delight of fans and film aficionados who lined the red carpet to celebrate the hotly anticipated follow-up to the six-time Academy Award winner Dune (2021) and welcome filmmaker Denis Villeneuve and stars Josh Brolin and Dave Bautista who flew in for the occasion.
Dune: Part Two is Villeneuve’s adaptation of the 1965 novel Dune by Frank Herbert, picking up where Dune left off. It stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Christopher Walken, Léa Seydoux, Souheila Yacoub, with Stellan Skarsgård, with Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem. The film was directed by Villeneuve, written by Villeneuve and Jon Spaihts and produced by Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Patrick McCormick, Villeneuve and Tanya Lapointe.
The film continues the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a path of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he must prevent a terrible future only he can foresee.
Set in the distant future, Dune: Part Two features the sweeping sand dunes of Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert as the landscape of the iconic desert planet Arrakis. Scenes were captured at just under 20 locations across the Liwa desert during the winter 2022 and a team of 300 local, 250 international crew and 500 extras were employed during the 27-day shoot.
Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) and Epic films facilitated the production through a range of logistical support, including providing vehicles and constructing tents and camps for costume rooms, sets, canteens, and production equipment storage. Dune: Part Two also benefited from ADFC’s generous rebate, while production services were provided by Epic Films, along with support from a number of UAE production partners.
Mark your calendars, as the highly anticipated release of Dune: Part Two, directed by Villeneuve, written by Villeneuve and Jon Spaihts and produced by Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Patrick McCormick, Villeneuve and Tanya Lapointe, is set to captivate audiences in the Middle East. In the UAE and Lebanon, the epic continuation of the Dune saga will hit cinemas on the 29 February 2024. In other markets in the region, the film is scheduled for an Eid release on the 11 April. To ensure all fans across the Middle East experience the epic sequel as soon as its available, a special week of previews will take place in markets outside the UAE and Lebanon. Fans in these countries can watch Dune: Part Two from the 29 February to the 6 March (inclusive), before the onset of Ramadan and ahead of the wider release on 11 April. Get ready for an immersive cinematic adventure that promises to enthral audiences across the Middle East.

Following the official Middle East premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures’ hotly anticipated Dune: Part Two, filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, stars Josh Brolin and Dave Bautista and producer Tanya Lapointe were spotted next to a giant sandworm in Abu Dhabi’s iconic desert dunes.
The massive creature emerged from the dunes as part of the emirate’s celebrations for Denis Villeneuve’s newest film, Part Two of his adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 classic novel.
Set in the distant future, six-time Academy Award winner Dune (2021) and now Dune: Part Two both feature the sweeping sand dunes of Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert as the landscape of the iconic desert planet Arrakis, which is home to the colossal and highly territorial sandworms. The worms grow to be massive in size and are attracted to the footfalls of those who walk across the sand dunes of Arrakis, and to the vibrations of the machines, such as the Spice Harvesters, disturbing the surface. Scenes from Dune: Part Two were captured at just under 20 locations across the Liwa desert during the winter 2022 and a team of 300 local, 250 international crew and 500 extras were used during the 27-day shoot.
Mark your calendars, as the highly anticipated release of Dune: Part Two, directed by Villeneuve, written by Villeneuve and Jon Spaihts and produced by Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Patrick McCormick, Villeneuve and Tanya Lapointe, is set to captivate audiences in the Middle East. In the UAE and Lebanon, the epic continuation of the Dune saga will hit cinemas on the 29 February 2024. In other markets in the region, the film is scheduled for an Eid release on the 11 April.
To ensure all fans across the Middle East experience the epic sequel as soon as its available, a special week of previews will take place in markets outside the UAE and Lebanon. Fans in these countries can watch Dune: Part Two from the 29 February to the 6 March 2024 (inclusive), before the onset of Ramadan and ahead of the wider release on 11 April. Get ready for an immersive cinematic adventure that promises to enthral audiences across the Middle East.