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.

From: AED 24,000
Setup: 10–25 d
Max visas: ∞

SHAMS

Sharjah

The cheapest credible route to a UAE licence — and the one most freelancers actually need.

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.

From: AED 7,500
Setup: 2–7 d
Max visas: 6

100% remote setup

Let's talk about your actual case

A twenty-minute call. We will also tell you if the UAE is the wrong answer for you — it often is.

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WhatsApp · hello@plug2uae.com