This guide discusses steps to obtain a filming license in Dubai so you can avoid fines and other legal troubles in Dubai.
To shoot a video in Dubai for a commercial, YouTube vlog, or feature film, or even if you are shooting a video for social media, you will need to obtain a valid filming license in Dubai.
For Dubai public filming, there are rules to follow even if you’re just using a smartphone in certain locations.
Who Needs a Filming Permit in Dubai?
Before diving into the steps, it helps to understand exactly who requires a permit. A filming license in Dubai is mandatory for:
- Production companies creating feature films, TV shows, commercials, or branded content
- Content creators and influencers producing monetized content for YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram
- Journalists and media organizations filming news segments, documentaries, or interviews
- Corporate videographers shooting marketing or internal communication videos in public or semi-public spaces
- Event photographers and videographers working in public spaces, hotels, or venues with professional equipment
- Independent filmmakers and photographers using professional-grade equipment for any commercial purpose
When is a permit NOT required? A filming permit is not required if you are shooting weddings, events, footage for schools and colleges for educational purposes, or for strictly personal use. However, the moment that footage is used commercially or published online for revenue, a permit becomes necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get a Filming License in Dubai
these are the essential steps to obtain filming license in Dubai:
Step 1: Know Your Project Type
Are you filming a movie, TV series, corporate video, commercial ad, vlog, or short-form content for platforms like Instagram or TikTok?
This is important because the type of content you shoot for determines the permissions and paperwork that will be required. Even student projects or travel vlogs may need permits if you’re using them for commercial purposes or filming in public spaces.
The DFTC now categorizes projects into distinct permit types — including public ground permits, private location permits, aerial permits, and special permits for offshore or sensitive locations. Knowing which category applies to your shoot before you apply will speed up the process significantly.
Step 2: Partner with a Local Production Company (If You’re Not Based in the UAE)
If you’re an international production team or individual, you should collaborate with a UAE-licensed production company. The company acts as your local sponsor and is the one allowed to apply for a permit on your behalf.
Without a local partner, your application won’t even be considered by the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC).
All international companies must appoint a company with a valid UAE production trade license to conduct the shoot. The UAE-licensed production company shall also procure work or business visas for all crew who will be involved in the shoot. DFTC will not directly issue shooting permits to any international companies.
Step 3: Get Script Approval First (Scripted Projects Only)
This is a critical step that many first-time filmmakers overlook. If your project involves a script — such as a film, TV series, or documentary — you must obtain script approval before applying for a filming permit.
Script approval takes up to 25 business days to be issued. The UAE working week is Sunday through Thursday. Weekends and public holidays are not business days.
Key rules for script submission:
- Arabic productions must submit a full script in Arabic
- All other productions must submit the full script in English
- The final approved script must include the itinerary of scene shots and each location or scene intended for shooting. No further amendments are permitted once the final script is submitted
- The company shall not shoot any scenes projecting disrespect to the culture and values of the UAE, or scenes that reflect negatively on economic, political, or ideological issues
Scripts are forwarded by DFTC to the UAE National Media Council for approval. Only once approval is granted can you proceed to submit a permit application.
Step 4: Register on the DFTC Portal
Visit the Dubai Film and TV Commission website and create an account. You need to submit your application and upload all the necessary documents.
If you are still finalizing your shoot plans, it is beneficial to complete this step as soon as possible. The DFTC requires that permit applications be submitted a minimum of seven business days before your first filming day. For complex shoots or those involving sensitive locations, submitting 2 to 3 weeks ahead is strongly advised.
Step 4: Gather and Upload Your Documents
- A detailed script or synopsis
- Filming schedule with date, time, and location
- Full crew list with roles
- List of filming equipment
- Copies of passport and visa for each crew member
- A commissioning letter from the client or production company
- Drone permit, if applicable (from GCAA and DCAA)
- Insurance documents covering liability and damage
- No Objection Certificates (NOC) from location owners or authorities
If filming on private property, you will need a No Objection Letter (NOC) from the private property owner in advance to submit to DFTC. This is separate from the standard location fee approval and must be arranged directly with the property owner before your application.
Step 5: Pay the Permit Fees
Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to pay the required fees, which can depend on the type and scale of your shoot.
- Application fee: AED 520 (covers multiple locations/days)
- Public/government location fee: AED 2,520 for government-operated public locations
- Location fees: Range from AED 0 to AED 25,000 per day depending on the site
- Drone filming fees: Can go up to AED 3,000
Extra costs may include insurance, security, and cleanup services, depending on the nature of your shoot. Production companies may also charge a fee for a dedicated crew member — such as a fixer, production assistant, or location manager — to manage the permit process and accompany you on set. This person acts as the main point of contact with local authorities during your shoot.
Step 6: Approval timelines now broken down by project type
Approval timelines vary significantly depending on your project type:
| Project Type | Approval Time |
|---|---|
| Non-scripted shoots (commercials, vlogs, corporate) | 2–3 working days |
| Standard public location shoots | Up to 5 business days |
| Sensitive locations (airports, mosques, government buildings) | Up to 10 working days |
| Scripted projects (films, TV series) | Up to 25 working days |
Remember: the UAE business week runs Sunday through Thursday. Fridays, Saturdays, and public holidays do not count as business days and will extend your timeline accordingly.
Step 7: Permit boundary rule
After your application is approved, you’ll get a digital permit. Keep a printed copy with you at all shooting locations, as authorities may ask to see it. You shall only be permitted to shoot in the specified areas and for the specified time periods as approved by DFTC. Deviating from the approved locations or schedule is treated as a violation and may result in fines.
Special Locations That Need Extra Permissions
Certain locations in Dubai are more sensitive and will require additional approvals:
- Airports
- Mosques
- Government buildings
- Residential areas or gated communities
- Hotels and malls
- Roads and highways (require RTA — Roads & Transport Authority — approval)
- Parks and beaches (require Dubai Municipality approval)
- Military zones and royal palaces (generally restricted — no permit issued)
- Private venue rate cards
For iconic private venues such as Burj Khalifa and properties managed by Emaar, Jumeirah, Nakheel, Dubai International Financial Centre, or Meydan — fixed permit rate cards apply. For other private locations, fees are negotiated directly with the venue owner. DFTC collects and remits those fees entirely to the location owner and keeps none of the proceeds.
What Happens If You Film Without a Permit?
Filming without permission in Dubai can lead to:
- Fines ranging from AED 10,000 to 100,000
- Confiscation of your camera and footage
- Legal action or visa complications
- On-set violation fines
Beyond filming without a permit, there is a separate category of on-set violations that also carry penalties. These include: no licensed crew member present on set, property damage, littering, blocking pathways or roads without permission, building sets without permission, or aerial filming without an aerial permit. The fine for each of these violations is AED 20,000.
- Real-world penalty case
In 2022, a production crew filming in a Dubai residential area without permits faced AED 50,000 in fines and a temporary ban from filming within the UAE. This case highlights the critical importance of following the legal route regardless of the size or perceived informality of your shoot.
Permit Exemptions to Be Aware Of
Not every shoot requires a permit. The following are generally exempt:
- Weddings and private events
- Educational footage for schools and colleges
- Personal, non-commercial videos
- Tourists recording casual, non-commercial video in most public areas
However, if any of the above footage is later monetized or used for commercial purposes, a permit becomes mandatory retroactively.
Final Tips to Stay Compliant
- Always work with a licensed local production company
- Apply a minimum of 7 business days before your shoot and 2–3 weeks ahead for complex or sensitive location shoots
- For scripted projects, submit your script for approval well in advance it can take up to 25 business days through DFTC and the National Media Council
- Double-check the list of restricted or sensitive areas
- Get written permission for private properties
- Respect cultural norms and privacy rules
- Carry your permit during the shoot
- Ensure a licensed crew member from your local production company is present on set at all times
- Do not deviate from the approved locations, dates, or times listed on your permit
Getting a filming license in Dubai isn’t hard as long as you understand the rules, prepare your documents, and plan ahead.
Need Help Getting a Filming License in Dubai?
Getting approvals from the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC), arranging location NOCs, and securing drone permits can be time-consuming if you’re unfamiliar with the process.
Atlas Television is a licensed production company in Dubai that manages the entire filming permit process for you — from document preparation and application submission to approvals for ground filming, drone filming, and sensitive locations.
Whether you’re a foreign filmmaker, brand, content creator, or production house, our team ensures your shoot stays fully compliant and hassle-free.
👉 Apply for your Dubai filming license with Atlas Television
👉 Contact us today to get fast approvals and start filming legally in Dubai.
Frequently Asked Question
Q. Do you need a license to vlog in Dubai?
Yes, if you’re earning money through vlogging, you’re considered a content creator under UAE law. This means you’ll need a license from the National Media Council to operate legally.
Q. Do I need a permit to film in Dubai?
Yes, filming in Dubai, whether with a professional crew or just a few people, requires a filming permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission. Even small projects like travel videos may need one, especially if shot in public or private spaces.
Q. Can I shoot a video in Dubai?
You can, but only after getting the necessary permission. This includes working with a local production company and applying through DFTC. Filming without a permit can lead to fines or confiscation of equipment.
Q. How can Atlas Television help me get a filming license in Dubai?
Atlas Television is an approved production company in Dubai that handles the complete DFTC permit process. We get your details, gather the documents required for submission, submit an application for a filming license in Dubai, and also assist with location approvals.
Q. Can Atlas Television apply for a DFTC permit on behalf of foreign filmmakers?
Yes, Atlas Television can help foreign filmmakers apply for DFTC permits by acting as their local partner. We will submit your request for a filming permit directly to the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC) so that you get your DFTC permit without delays.
Q. Does Atlas Television provide support for drone filming permits in Dubai?
Yes, Atlas Television also assists with drone filming permit applications through GCAA and DCAA. A drone filming permit helps you meet the safety and legal requirements for aerial filming in Dubai.
Q. How long does Atlas Television take to get a filming license?
The approval time depends on the type of filming:
- Ground filming permission: typically takes 2 to 5 business days.
- Drone filming permission: usually requires 7 to 14 business days due to additional aviation and security clearances.
With Atlas Television’s expertise, delays are rare our team pre-checks all required documents before applying to ensure a smooth and timely approval process.
Q. Can Atlas Television arrange filming locations in Dubai?
Yes, Atlas Television can help you find and secure filming locations in Dubai, whether you want locations with beaches, deserts, or a beautiful skyline. We also help you obtain location NOCs and permissions required for filming in malls, hotels, and other renowned buildings.
Q. Can tourists film in Dubai?
Tourists can record casual personal videos in most public areas. However, anything intended for YouTube monetisation, brand partnerships, or commercial use requires a DFTC permit — and tourists cannot apply directly. They must partner with a UAE-licensed production company to apply on their behalf.
Need help getting your Dubai filming license quickly?
Let Atlas Television handle everything from permits and location approvals to drone permissions.
Contact us today to get started with your filming project in Dubai.
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