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Media production licence in the UAE

Film, video, photography and content production. If you shoot physically in the UAE you need filming permits in addition to the licence, and twofour54's production rebate can materially change the economics. If you produce remotely, a budget media licence is sufficient.

What to know first

  • Filming in public locations requires permits from the relevant emirate's film commission.
  • Content must comply with UAE media content standards.
  • Drone filming needs separate civil aviation approval.

Suitable free zones

twofour54

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi's media zone, with real production incentives.

From
AED 15,000
Setup
7–20 d
Max visas
∞

100% remote setup

Studio City

Dubai

Sound stages and production infrastructure for film and television.

Est. from
≈ AED 24,000
Setup
10–25 d
Max visas
∞

SHAMS

Sharjah

A low-cost, credible route to a UAE licence, and a natural fit for freelancers.

From
AED 5,760
Setup
1–4 d
Max visas
6

100% remote setup

Creative City

Fujairah

A long-running budget media licence, popular with consultants and creators.

Est. from
≈ AED 7,500
Setup
2–7 d
Max visas
6

100% remote setup

Your licence category decides your tax rate. Worth a conversation before you incorporate.

Your quotation within one working day

Four details are all we need. We come back with a firm quotation, the recommended free zone and the reasons for it.

Request my quotationEstimate the cost

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