Filming Permissions

If you're planning a shoot in Dubai, you’ll need to get a film permit in Dubai from the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC). Only a UAE-based production company registered with DFTC can apply for you. Government rules require permits for filming on public, private, or government-owned properties. Atlas Television FZ LLC is fully registered and can help you with the process from start to finish.

Types of Locations

• Government Locations – roads, deserts, bridges, souks, etc.
• RTA (Roads & Transport Authority) – highways, walkways, etc.
• Municipality – parks, beaches, etc.
• Private Locations – malls, restaurants, villas, offices, clinics, etc.

How the Process Works

1. First, we apply for approval from DFTC for your DFTC permit in Dubai.
2. Once approved, we apply for additional permissions from RTA, Municipality, or private property owners if needed.
3. For private locations, we'll need a No Objection Letter (NOC) in advance from the private property owner to submit to DFTC.

What Documents Are Needed

• Passport copies of all crew and talent.
• Commissioning letter from the company hiring Atlas Television.
  • If your company was hired by another client, we also need their NOC.
• NOC from the property owner (if filming on private property).
• Storyboard or brief with:
  • End client name
  • Distribution platform (TV, YouTube, etc.)
  • Budget
  • Cast info
  • Type of shoot (commercial, show, documentary, etc.)
  • List of equipment.

General Fees

Film permit fees in Dubai vary depending on the type, location, and duration of your shoot.

• Application Fee: AED 520
• Filming Permit Fee (public locations): AED 2,520
• Atlas Processing Fee: AED 1,000

Private locations may charge from nothing up to AED 25,000 per day, depending on the venue.

Example: Filming in a client's office might be free. Shooting at Burj Khalifa or in a mall might include fees for security, cleaning, etc.

Production companies may charge a fee for the crew member responsible for managing the Dubai film permit process, such as a Fixer, Production Assistant (PA), Production Manager, or Location Manager. This crew member will also accompany you on location to assist with logistics, ensure compliance with permit conditions, and act as the main point of contact with local authorities.

Additional Fees (If Needed)

• Dubai Municipality Permit: AED 1,500
• Atlas Processing Fee: AED 1,000
• Private Location Fees: Based on the location owner

DFTC Fee Schedule by Category

• Scripted Films, TV Series, Documentaries – AED 2,500 (Up to 30 days)
• Unscripted shows, reality, lifestyle – AED 2,500 (Up to 30 days)
• News & Current Events – AED 2,500 (Up to 14 days)
• TV & Online Adverts – AED 2,500 (Up to 3 days)
• Corporate Content / B-roll – AED 2,500 (Up to 14 days)
• Aerial Filming – AED 520 for ground; additional MOD permissions needed

More details: DFTC Permit Fees

How Long Does It Take

DFTC usually approves Dubai filming permits in 2–3 working days for non-scripted shoots. Scripted projects (films, series) may take up to 25 working days due to script approval requirements.

Fines for Violations

• Filming without permission: AED 25,000
• No location permission: AED 15,000
• Filming different content than approved: AED 25,000
• Other violations (no crew member, property damage, littering, blocking paths, aerial filming without permit, etc.): AED 20,000

DFTC Full Terms and Conditions: https://www.filmdubai.gov.ae/s/tandc

Need Expert Help with Dubai Filming Permits?

Contact Atlas Television for obtaining a Dubai filming permit. Apart from helping Dubai productions, we can provide Dubai filming permit help for Dubai for UK productions and international clients. Plus, we handle your documents and coordinate with DFTC to secure a location.