KUINKA KUVAAN DUBAISSA
How to Get a Filming License in Dubai
(2025 Step-by-Step Guide)
Thinking about filming in Dubai? Whether it’s a YouTube vlog, corporate video, commercial, documentary, or feature film — you’ll need an official filming licence in Dubai before you hit record.
Dubai has strict media laws, and filming in public without a permit can lead to fines, confiscation of equipment, and legal trouble. This updated guide walks you through how to get a filming permit in Dubai legally and efficiently.
Why You Need a Filming Permit in Dubai
Dubai offers world-class locations — futuristic skylines, deserts, beaches, luxury hotels — but they’re all regulated. Even shooting with a smartphone in public areas can require approval if the footage is for commercial or online publication.
A filming license protects you from fines and ensures a smooth production process with local authorities and property owners.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get a Filming Licence in Dubai
Step 1: Identify Your Project Type
Determine what you’re filming:
- Feature film or TV series
- Commercial, corporate, or music video
- YouTube vlog or influencer content
- Short-form video for Instagram, TikTok, or Reels
- Student or travel project
➡️ Why it matters: Each category may require different permissions and fees.
Even student or influencer shoots can need a permit if filmed in public or monetized online.
Step 2: Partner With a Local Production Company
If you’re not based in the UAE, you must work with a UAE-licensed production company.
This local partner acts as your legal sponsor and is the only entity allowed to apply for a Dubain elokuva- ja televisiokomissio (DFTC) permit.
Without a local partner, your application won’t be processed.
? Tip: With FilmingPortalUAE.com you can directly apply, we will service as your local licensed partner part and manage your permits and other service needs.
Step 3: We register your project and crew on the DFTC Portal
Your project and crew needs to be registered at the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC).
This will be an easy step for you as we will submit your application on your behalf, upload documents, and track approval progress there.
Said that, It’s best to register early!!
Step 4: Prepare and Upload Required Documents
We will provide you with access to our filming portal and depending on your project you need to upload:
- Script or project synopsis
- Commissioning Letters
- Detailed filming schedule (dates, times, and locations)
- Crew list with roles
- Equipment list (especially drones or large setups)
- Copies of passport and UAE visa for all crew members
- Drone permit (if applicable) from GCAA and DCAA
- Insurance coverage (liability and property damage)
- No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) from property owners or location authorities
Tip: Missing or incomplete files are the most common reason for permit delays —
our agents will update you if anything is missing
Step 5: Pay the Filming Permit Fees
This is a list of approx. fees 2025, please note they might have changed at the time you read this.
Please inquire for rates of the today.
Type
DFTC processing fee of per application
DFTC Government Location Fees
Scripted Films, TV series, documentaries
Unscripted Reality shows, magazine shows, lifestyle.
News and current events (local registered)
News and current events foreign broadcast
Advertisements for TV and online
Corporate Content, videos and footage
Corporate Content, still shoots or video footage
Aerial Filming DFTC
Still shoots or video footage for any production type
Aerial Filming Permit
Standard aerial filming (non-restricted-zones)
Red-zone operation (incl. GCAA + clearances)
Municipality Location Fees
Beaches, Parks, Deserts 3 - 5 days for approval
Fees
AED 520
AED 2,500
AED 2,500
AED 0
AED 2,500
AED 2,500
AED 2,500
AED 2,500
AED 0
AED 4,000
AED 8,000
AED 500
Permit Duration
up to 30 days
up to 30 days
up to 30 days
up to 14 days
up to 3 days
up to 7 days
up to 14 days
up to 7 days
– 6,000
– 20,000 +
1 Day
Notes
non-refundable
3 - 5 days for approval
Step 6: Wait for DFTC Approval
Approval usually takes 2–5 working days, but can take up to 10 days if your shoot includes sensitive sites like:
- Airports
- Mosques
- Hallituksen rakennukset
- Residential compounds
- Shopping malls or hotels
We track your status or your permit and respond quickly to any feedback or document requests.
Step 7: Receive and Carry Your Digital Permit
Once approved, you’ll receive your digital filming permit.
Print a copy and keep it at all shooting locations — police or location authorities may ask to see it.
⚠️ Special Locations That Need Extra Permissions
You’ll need additional clearance for:
- Airports and seaports
- Mosques and heritage sites
- Palaces and government offices
- Private communities and villas
- Hotels, malls, and restaurants
FilmingPortalUAE can help you coordinate these NOCs quickly.
What Happens If You Film Without a Permit in Dubai?
Filming without a permit can lead to:
- Fines: AED 10,000 – 100,000
- Equipment confiscation
- Legal or visa complications
- Permanent bans on future filming
Don’t risk it — permits are affordable and fast when done correctly.
✅ Expert Tips to Stay Compliant
- Always work with a licensed UAE production company -> inquire here
- Get written permission (NOC) for private and semi-private properties
- Respect local culture and privacy laws
- Avoid filming restricted sites (e.g., police stations, courts, military zones)
- Have your local company representative with your permit copy with you at all times
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a filming permit in Dubai?
Yes. Any public or commercial filming — even small crew shoots or influencer content — requires a permit from the Dubain elokuva- ja televisiokomissio (DFTC).
Do I need a license to vlog in Dubai?
If your vlog generates income (YouTube, TikTok, etc.), you are considered a content creator under UAE media law.
You’ll need a National Media Council (NMC) license or a permit through a licensed media entity.
Can tourists shoot videos in Dubai?
Yes, tourists can record personal videos, but not for commercial or promotional use.
Anything intended for YouTube monetization, brand partnerships, or production sale requires a DFTC permit.
How long does it take to get a filming permit in Dubai?
Standard processing time is 2–5 business days, but allow up to 10 days for sensitive locations.
Where can I apply for a filming license in Dubai?
You can apply through the official DFTC Filming Permit Portal.
If you need a UAE partner or assistance with the paperwork, FilmingPortalUAE.com can handle the process end-to-end.
Need Help Getting Your Dubai Filming Permit?
Save time and avoid rejected applications?
Apply for your filming license via FilmingPortalUAE.com
Our local production experts handle everything — from DFTC submissions to location NOCs, drone permits, and insurance.
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