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.