Dubai is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to shoot a film. Skyscrapers, deserts, beaches, old souks, and futuristic skylines, all in one city.
From Hollywood blockbusters like Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol and Star Trek Beyond to Bollywood hits like Happy New Year and Bang Bang, Dubai has become a global filming hub.
If you are planning a movie, TV commercial, music video, or short film, this guide is for you. We have put together the top 20 film locations in Dubai plus a complete permits guide so you know exactly how to shoot legally and smoothly in UAE.
Whether you are an international filmmaker or a UAE-based production team, this article will save you time, money, and stress.
Table of Contents
Why Film in Dubai?
Dubai has become a top global destination for film, TV, and commercial production. Here is why filmmakers from around the world choose Dubai every year:
- Year-round sunshine. Over 300 sunny days per year mean almost no weather delays.
- Diverse locations in one city. Beach, desert, city skyline, traditional souk, and ultra-modern architecture — all within a 1-hour drive.
- World-class infrastructure. Top equipment rental houses, production studios, and post-production facilities.
- Skilled local crews. Multilingual DOPs, sound engineers, editors, and assistants based in Dubai.
- Tax-friendly environment. No income tax and competitive production rebates.
- Easy visa process. Fast crew visas for international productions.
- Iconic landmarks. Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Museum of the Future, and many more.
Dubai Film Permit: Quick Overview
Any commercial shoot in Dubai requires a permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC). This includes films, TV shows, commercials, music videos, documentaries, and corporate videos.
The DFTC is the official regulatory body for film and television production in Dubai. It was established under Executive Decision No. 50 of 2014 by the Dubai Government Executive Council.
You do not need a permit for:
- Personal use videos and family vacation footage
- Wedding photography and videography
- School and college educational projects
- Private events (not for commercial use)
How to Apply for a Dubai Film Permit (Step by Step)
Applying for a Dubai film permit is straightforward if you follow the right steps.
Step 1 - Hire a UAE Licensed Production House
You must partner with a UAE-based production company registered with the DFTC. They will act as your legal sponsor and submit the application on your behalf.
Step 2 - Prepare Your Script and Documentation
Your script or storyboard must be approved by DFTC before the permit is issued. Required documents include:
- Full script or storyboard
- Detailed shooting schedule
- List of all filming locations
- Crew list with passport and visa copies
- Commissioning letter from the client
- Equipment list
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from property owners (for private locations)
Step 3 - Register on the DFTC Portal
Your production house will register the project on the official DFTC portal at filmdubai.gov.ae and upload all documents.
Step 4 - Pay the Permit Fees
Permit fees vary based on location, duration, and project type. Payment is made via the DFTC portal.
Step 5 - Wait for Approval
Standard approval takes 2 to 5 working days. Sensitive locations like airports, mosques, government buildings, malls, and hotels may take up to 10 working days.
Step 6 - Receive Your Digital Permit & Start Filming
Once approved, your production house receives the digital permit. Always keep a printed copy on set during the shoot.
Dubai Film Permit Costs & Fees (2026)
Costs depend on multiple factors. Here is a general guide to what you should budget for:
| Permit Type / Location | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Standard DFTC permit (basic) | 100 – 500 |
| Public location (streets, parks) | 500 – 3,000 |
| Beach permit (Dubai Municipality) | 1,000 – 5,000 |
| Desert location | 2,000 – 10,000 |
| Mall interior (Dubai Mall, MOE) | 10,000 – 50,000+ |
| Burj Khalifa / Downtown area | 15,000 – 100,000+ |
| Hotel interior shoot | 5,000 – 30,000 |
| Drone / aerial filming | 3,000 – 15,000 |
| Road closure / RTA approval | 5,000 – 50,000 |
| Police support for shoots | 2,000 – 10,000 per day |
Production house service fees, location managers, and on-set fixers are additional. International productions usually budget AED 50,000 to AED 500,000+ for end-to-end permits and location coordination.
Top 20 Film Locations in Dubai (2026)
Here are the most iconic and popular shooting spots in Dubai, used by Hollywood, Bollywood, and major brands.
1. Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai
The world's tallest building and the city's most iconic skyline backdrop. Used in countless commercials, films, and music videos. Tom Cruise famously climbed it in Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.
Permit: DFTC + Emaar approval + Downtown area permissions
2. Palm Jumeirah
The world-famous man-made palm-shaped island with beach resorts, luxury villas, and aerial views that look stunning from above.
Permit: DFTC + Nakheel + hotel approvals (if applicable)
3. Dubai Marina
A stunning waterfront district with high-rise towers, yachts, and the famous Marina Walk. Perfect for night shoots and lifestyle content.
Permit: DFTC + Dubai Marina community approvals
4. Al Qudra Desert & Lakes
Massive sand dunes and serene desert lakes just 45 minutes from the city. The most popular desert shooting spot in Dubai.
Permit: DFTC + Dubai Municipality
5. Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) & The Beach
A popular open beach area with stunning sea views, modern architecture, and an active boardwalk perfect for lifestyle shots.
Permit: DFTC + Dubai Municipality
6. Museum of the Future
The futuristic torus-shaped building on Sheikh Zayed Road. One of the most-Instagrammed buildings in the world.
Permit: DFTC + Museum of the Future management
7. Dubai Mall
The largest mall in the world with the Dubai Aquarium, Fashion Avenue, and connection to the Burj Khalifa. A favorite for fashion and retail shoots.
Permit: DFTC + Dubai Mall management (Emaar)
8. Mall of the Emirates
Home to Ski Dubai — the world's largest indoor ski resort. Great for unique snow scenes inside the desert city.
Permit: DFTC + Majid Al Futtaim management
9. Sheikh Zayed Road Skyline
Dubai's main highway with stunning skyscrapers on both sides. Iconic for driving sequences and city establishing shots.
Permit: DFTC + RTA road approvals
10. Dubai Creek & Al Seef
The historic heart of old Dubai with traditional abras (water taxis), spice souks, and beautifully restored heritage architecture.
Permit: DFTC + Dubai Municipality + RTA (for waterway)
11. Al Fahidi Historical District (Bastakiya)
Narrow lanes, wind towers, and traditional Arabian architecture. The best location in Dubai for capturing old-world Middle Eastern charm.
Permit: DFTC + Dubai Culture & Arts Authority
12. Atlantis The Palm
The iconic pink resort at the tip of Palm Jumeirah. Used in countless luxury commercials, music videos, and travel campaigns.
Permit: DFTC + Atlantis management
13. La Mer & Sunset Beach
A vibrant beach destination with street art, colorful murals, beachfront cafes, and golden sand. Great for youthful, trendy shoots.
Permit: DFTC + Meraas + Dubai Municipality
14. Global Village
A cultural park with pavilions from 90+ countries. Open from October to April, this is a vibrant, colorful film location.
Permit: DFTC + Global Village management (seasonal)
15. Dubai Frame
A massive golden picture frame that connects old and new Dubai. The view from the top is one of the best in the city.
Permit: DFTC + Dubai Municipality
16. City Walk
A modern open-air retail and lifestyle destination with European-style streets, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Permit: DFTC + Meraas community approval
17. Dubai Opera
A stunning dhow-shaped performing arts center in Downtown Dubai. Ideal for elegant, artistic, and premium-feel productions.
Permit: DFTC + Dubai Opera management
18. Hatta Mountains
A mountainous escape just 90 minutes from Dubai. Stunning landscapes, lakes, and adventure terrain. Completely different from city Dubai.
Permit: DFTC + Hatta Development Authority
19. Expo City Dubai
The legacy site of Expo 2020 with futuristic pavilions, modern architecture, and large outdoor spaces. Perfect for large productions.
Permit: DFTC + Expo City Dubai management
20. Ain Dubai & Bluewaters Island
The world's largest observation wheel and a stylish island destination with restaurants and beach views.
Permit: DFTC + Meraas + Bluewaters management
Filming Rules & Restrictions in Dubai (Must Know)
UAE has strict but clear rules for filming. Knowing them in advance will save you from costly fines and shoot cancellations.
Cultural & Content Restrictions
- Respect UAE culture and values. No scenes that disrespect Islam, the ruling family, or local traditions.
- No politically sensitive content. Avoid scenes related to religion, politics, or regional conflicts.
- No nudity or intimate scenes. Modesty is required for all on-screen talent.
- Alcohol scenes need extra approval. Drinking on camera is restricted in public areas.
Operational Rules
- A production house representative must be present on set at all times.
- No property damage. You'll be charged for any damage caused during the shoot.
- No littering or blocking roads without permits.
- No setting up sets or temporary structures without separate approval.
- No aerial or drone filming without special permits.
Drone Filming Permits in Dubai
Aerial filming in Dubai requires additional permits beyond the standard DFTC approval. Here is what you need:
- GCAA approval (General Civil Aviation Authority)
- DCAA approval (Dubai Civil Aviation Authority)
- Registered drone with the UAE authorities
- Licensed drone pilot with proof of training
- No-fly zone awareness — airports, royal palaces, and military areas are strictly off-limits
Drone permits usually take 5 to 10 working days to process. Costs range from AED 3,000 to AED 15,000 depending on location and duration.
Hiring Local Crew & Talent in Dubai
Once your permits are approved, you'll need a full crew and on-screen talent. Dubai has world-class film professionals available locally.
The most common roles you may need to hire:
- Director of Photography (DOP) and cinematographer
- Sound engineer and boom operator
- Lighting technicians and gaffers
- Production assistants and runners
- Makeup artists, hair stylists, and wardrobe
- Actors, extras, and on-screen talent
- Models for fashion and commercial shoots
- Voice-over artists for post-production
You can browse and hire verified film crews and talent on Gulf Got Talents:
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For a deeper look at the production hiring process, read our guide on how production companies hire film crews in UAE.
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Find Film Crew in Dubai →Pro Tips for Filming in Dubai
These insider tips will help your Dubai shoot go faster, cheaper, and smoother:
- Apply 2 to 4 weeks in advance. Especially for malls, hotels, and major landmarks.
- Avoid summer shoots (June – August). Temperatures can hit 45°C+, making outdoor filming tough.
- Best shooting season: October to April. Cool weather, perfect light, less haze.
- Plan for the "golden hour." Sunrise and sunset in Dubai are spectacular — perfect for cinematic shots.
- Friday mornings are quietest. Great for shooting in crowded public areas.
- Hire a local fixer. A good fixer saves hours of paperwork and on-set coordination.
- Always carry digital and printed permits. Police checks happen regularly at major spots.
- Respect prayer times. Pause loud activities during the 5 daily prayer calls.
- Bring backup batteries and shade. Heat drains gear faster than expected.
- Hire bilingual crew. Arabic and English-speaking crews handle local logistics easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Filming in Dubai
Do I need a permit to film in Dubai?
Yes, any commercial filming in Dubai requires a permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC). This includes films, TV shows, commercials, music videos, documentaries, and corporate videos. Personal use, weddings, school projects, and educational content usually do not require permits.
How long does it take to get a Dubai film permit?
Standard Dubai film permits take 2 to 5 working days to approve. Sensitive locations like airports, mosques, government buildings, residential areas, malls, and hotels can take up to 10 working days. Apply at least 1 to 2 weeks before your shoot date.
Can I apply for a Dubai film permit myself?
No, only a UAE-based production company licensed and registered with the Dubai Film and TV Commission can submit a permit application. Individual filmmakers and international production companies must work with a local licensed production partner.
How much does a Dubai film permit cost?
Dubai film permit costs vary based on location, duration, and project type. Government location fees are set under Executive Decision No. 50 of 2014. Standard permits can start from AED 100 to AED 500, while special locations, drone filming, and large productions can cost AED 5,000 to AED 50,000 or more.
What is the best film location in Dubai?
The Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and the desert dunes near Al Qudra are among the most iconic film locations in Dubai. Your best location depends on your story, budget, and the visual style you want to achieve.
Can drones be used for filming in Dubai?
Yes, but aerial filming in Dubai requires a separate drone permit from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) in addition to the DFTC film permit. Drones must be registered, and operators must have proper licensing.
What are the fines for filming in Dubai without a permit?
Filming in Dubai without a permit can result in fines up to AED 20,000, equipment confiscation, visa issues, and possible deportation for non-residents. Other violations like damaging property, littering, or unauthorized aerial filming also carry AED 20,000 fines.
Do I need approval for the script before filming in Dubai?
Yes, the script or storyboard must be approved by the Dubai Film and TV Commission before the permit is issued. Scripts should respect UAE culture, religion, and values. Anything disrespectful or politically sensitive will be rejected.
Can I film inside Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates?
Yes, but you need approval from both the Dubai Film and TV Commission and the mall management. Mall shoots usually have higher fees, restricted hours (often outside opening times), and strict guidelines for crew size and equipment.
Do I need a local production company for international shoots in Dubai?
Yes, all international and individual filmmakers must partner with a UAE-licensed production company to apply for a Dubai film permit. The local company acts as a legal sponsor and helps manage the entire production process.
Can I film on Dubai beaches?
Yes, public beaches like JBR Beach, Kite Beach, and Sunset Beach are popular filming spots. You need both a DFTC permit and approval from Dubai Municipality. Private hotel beaches require additional approval from the hotel management.
What documents are needed to apply for a Dubai film permit?
You need a project proposal, full script or storyboard, shooting schedule, crew list with passport copies, location details, commissioning letter, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from property owners for private locations.
Conclusion
Dubai offers some of the most stunning, diverse, and filmmaker-friendly locations in the world. With clear permit rules, professional crews, world-class infrastructure, and 300+ sunny days a year, it's no surprise that Hollywood, Bollywood, and global brands keep coming back.
The key to a successful Dubai shoot is preparation. Pick the right location, apply for permits early, partner with a licensed UAE production house, and hire skilled local talent.
With this guide, you now know exactly where to shoot, how to apply, what it costs, and what rules to follow.
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