Shooting in the United Arab Emirates offers striking ones: sweeping deserts, ultramodern architecture, dramatic coastlines, and vivid skies. Yet the region also presents regulatory, climate, and operational challenges. To help Mystic Studio’s clients, here is a practical guide to planning a shoot in the UAE: securing permits, coping with weather, and managing logistics.
1. Permits and Permissions
Types of Permits and Authorities
In the UAE, commercial photography and video shoots almost always need formal approval, especially in public spaces, for aerial work, or when using large equipment.
- In Dubai, the Dubai Film & TV Commission (DFTC) handles filming permits for public and private locations.
- For Abu Dhabi, permits are issued via the Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) (under the Creative Media Authority).
- For aerial or drone filming, additional permission from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) or the relevant aviation body is needed.
- The UAE Media Council also regulates photography & film at the federal level; they require script approval and crew data.
What You Must Submit
Your permit application should include:
- A detailed script or synopsis, or shot list (with scene descriptions)
- A filming schedule with dates, times, and location breakdowns
- A list of crew and cast, with passport/visa details.
- A list of equipment, including drones, lighting, rigs, and generators
- Insurance documentation (liability, damage)
- No objection certificates (NOCs) from private location owners or municipalities (if required)
- If filming aerial, a separate drone permit application with a flight plan, altitude, and safety measures
In Abu Dhabi, script approval is a formal step: first, the script must be approved (5–15 working days) before ground shooting permissions.
Fees and Timelines
- In Dubai, there is a non-refundable processing fee of AED 520 per application.
- The DFTC aims to process non-scripted shoots in about 5 working days if the application is complete.
- For scripted content, script approval may add extra days—sometimes up to 25 working days.
- In Abu Dhabi, shoo t applications should be submitted at least 5–10 working days in advance for public locations.
Additional constraints
- International crews must have valid visas or be sponsored locally.
- Filming in sensitive zones (government buildings, airports, military zones, mosques) often demands extra clearance.
- Once approved, you must carry permit documents on set for inspection.
- Requests for changes or deviations from the approved location/schedule may require reapproval.
- There are stiff penalties (fines, confiscation) for filming without permits.
2. Climate and Weather Considerations
Seasonal patterns
- The harshest months are from June through early September, with daytime highs regularly exceeding 40–45 °C.
- Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are more forgiving, though wind and occasional dust occur.
- Winter (December to February) is mild and often the preferred window for major outdoor shoots.
Heat, light, and timing
- In summer, shooting outdoors midday is difficult: scenes may overheat, cameras and batteries struggle, and talent may suffer.
- Best times are early morning (before 9 am) or late afternoon (after 3–4 pm).
- Harsh overhead sunlight can cast deep shadows; you’ll need diffusion, reflectors, or shade.
- Sudden sand or dust storms can arise, especially in transitional months. Keep rain covers, lens shields, and backup gear ready.
Humidity, wind, and coastal regions
- Along the coast, humidity rises. Combine with heat, and this can strain the crew and gear.
- Wind near dunes or the coast may blow sand, damaging sensitive equipment and stirring haze.
- Monitor forecasts daily (some sites offer real-time UAE weather alerts).
Alternative setups
For extreme days, you may pivot to indoor locations or studios. Mystic Studio’s control over lighting, air conditioning, and environment may be a safer choice when conditions are extreme.
3. Logistics, Crew, and Equipment
Local partnerships
- Hire local fixers or production services to assist with permits, local suppliers, and coordination.
- Use UAE-licensed production companies as your local sponsor to meet permit conditions.
- Use local crew when possible (camera, grip, assistants) to reduce costs, import hurdles, and customs issues.
Transport and access
- Evaluate access to remote desert, mountain, coastal or heritage sites. Some roads require off-road vehicles.
- Always permit extra time for travel: UAE traffic (especially Dubai) can be unpredictable.
- For remote desert areas, bring extra fuel, backup water, shade, and first aid.
Power, backup, and redundancy
- Portable generators, battery packs, and UPS systems are standard.
- Bring spare batteries, memory cards, and lens cleaning kits.
- Use shade tents for camera gear and sensitive instruments.
- Plan for safe overnight gear storage if the shoot spans multiple days.
Accommodations and staging
- Use nearby hotels or campsites with easy access to shoot sites.
- Have a staging area near the location where gear prep, makeup, and wardrobe prep can happen.
- Arrange for meals, hydration, and break zones—crew working in desert heat must have shade and water.
Customs, import, and documentation
- If equipment is being flown in, arrange carnet or temporary import documents.
- Clearly list all gear details (serial numbers, weight) and ensure permits cover them.
- For shoots that generate content, ensure your permit also covers post-production and export of footage. Some footage (especially involving security zones) may need additional clearance