Dubai has spent the last decade building the conditions that attract serious production activity. Striking locations across urban, desert, and coastal environments, a government that actively supports foreign productions, world-class hospitality infrastructure, and a streaming market growing faster than almost anywhere else in the region have all contributed to making the Emirate a genuine option for filmmakers, content creators, and production companies looking for a regional base.  

Dubai's production industry has grown rapidly over the past decade, fuelled by government investment in content creation infrastructure, a booming streaming market, and the emirate's position as a filming destination for international features, commercials, and documentaries.  

For filmmakers, content creators, and production companies looking to formalise their operations in the UAE, the license and regulatory structure is worth understanding before you commit to a structure. This guide covers the activity codes, permit requirements, and setup costs for a film production business at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone. 

What Does a Film Production License Cover? 

A film production license at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone covers the production of motion pictures, video content, television programmes, commercials, documentaries, and post-production services. It also covers related activities such as gaming content production, virtual reality production, and special effects work. For businesses combining production with distribution or publishing activities, see the ICT hub page for how those activities can be incorporated. 

Film Production License Requirements in Dubai 

Certain film production activities in Dubai require approval from the Dubai Film and TV Commission or relevant UAE media authorities before content can be produced or broadcast. Key requirements include: 

• National Media Council approval: required for broadcast and published content distributed in the UAE 

• Dubai Film and TV Commission filming permit: required for shooting at Dubai locations, public spaces, and government-owned sites 

• Standard free zone registration documents: passport copy, proof of address, proposed company name 

Content produced exclusively for export or international streaming platforms may have different regulatory requirements. Confirm your specific approval obligations with the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone team before applying. 

Relevant Film Production Activity Codes 

Activity codes for film production businesses at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone: 

• 5911.01, Production of Motion Pictures, Videos, Television Programmes or Television Commercials 

• 5911.94, Motion Picture Production 

• 5911.95, TV Programs, Commercials and Visual Materials Production 

• 5911.97, Documentary Filming 

• 5911.98, Cartoons Production 

• 5911.99, Special Effects Production 

• 5911.13, Gaming Content Production 

• 5912.00, Motion Picture, Video and Television Programme Post-Production Activities 

• 5912.97, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Provision and Development Services 

Visit the business activities page for the full list of media and production activity codes. 

Cost of a Film Production License in Dubai 

A film production license at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone starts from AED 12,500 per year. Your total cost will depend on the number of activity codes selected and your visa requirements. For an itemised estimate covering your specific setup, use the cost calculator.

Setting Up Your Film Production Company 

Verify your company name using the name check tool before applying. The free zone registration is fully digital and straightforward for production companies not requiring third-party media approvals. As a free zone business, you operate with 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and full repatriation of your earnings, with no UAE national partner required. 

Why Dubai for Film Production? 

Dubai's combination of striking urban and desert locations, world-class hotel and hospitality infrastructure, and a government that actively encourages foreign production activity makes it one of the most accessible filming destinations in the world. The Dubai Film and TV Commission provides location support, permit facilitation, and production coordination services to international productions.  

For production companies looking to establish a UAE base for regional and international projects, Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers a competitive and well-located home. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What license do I need to start a film production company in Dubai? 

You need a free zone trade license with relevant film production activity codes at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone. 

Do I need a filming permit to shoot in Dubai? 

Yes. Shooting at public locations, government-owned sites, and many private venues in Dubai requires a permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission. Your free zone license is separate from and does not replace this permit. 

Can a foreigner own 100% of a film production company in Dubai? 

Yes. Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone permits full foreign ownership with no UAE national partner required. 

Do I need National Media Council approval for my production company? 

National Media Council approval is required for content broadcast or distributed in the UAE. Production companies creating content exclusively for export may have different requirements. Confirm with the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone team. 

What is the minimum cost for a film production license in Dubai? 

A film production license at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone starts from AED 12,500 per year. 

Can I combine film production with post-production and VR services under one license? 

Yes. Multiple production-related activity codes can be included under one license. The first five codes are included at no additional cost. 

How long does it take to get a film production license in Dubai? 

For standard registrations without media authority pre-approval requirements, the license can be typically issued within one business day. 

Can a Dubai free zone production company work on mainland UAE projects? 

Yes. Free zone production companies can take on projects for mainland UAE clients, broadcasters, and advertising agencies without restriction. 

Is film production income subject to corporate tax in the UAE? 

Qualifying free zone companies producing content for international markets may benefit from 0% corporate tax on qualifying income. Confirm your specific tax position with a qualified UAE adviser. 

What equipment import rules apply to film production companies in Dubai? 

Production equipment imported for use in a free zone company may be eligible for customs duty exemptions. Temporary imports for specific shoots may be handled under a carnet arrangement. Confirm your specific import requirements with UAE customs.