Filming in Dubai: A Guide for Filmmakers

by Adam Ferraresi Writer

Just as you're contemplating your next filming location, Dubai pops up on your radar. It's a city that effortlessly marries tradition with modernity, offering filmmakers a unique backdrop that's both exotic and futuristic.

Before you pack your camera gear, there's a lot to think about, from understanding the local film industry to finding your way through the cultural etiquette. You're about to set off on an intriguing journey, unravelling the intricacies of filming in this Middle Eastern metropolis.

But where do you start, and what should you know to make your Dubai filming experience smooth and successful?

Understanding Dubai's Film Industry

Diving into Dubai's film industry, you'll quickly realize that it's a bustling hub of creativity, teeming with diverse talents and abundant opportunities. Home to both local and international productions, it's becoming a destination of choice for filmmakers from around the globe. There's a breadth of genres being explored here, from thrilling action sequences to heartfelt dramas, all of which are pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.

You'll find a vibrant community of filmmakers, actors, and crew members all working tirelessly to bring their visions to life. Collaboration is key in this industry, and in Dubai, you'll find a welcoming environment that fosters this spirit of teamwork.

Dubai's state-of-the-art production facilities and cutting-edge technology are unrivaled in the region, making it a hotspot for innovation in filmmaking. From high-tech sound stages to advanced post-production services, the city offers everything you need to turn your creative ideas into a cinematic reality.

In addition, the government's supportive policies and incentives for the film industry are also a major draw. So, while you're exploring the complex landscape of Dubai's film industry, remember that you're not alone in this journey. There's a whole community ready to support and work with you.

Necessary Filming Permits

Before you can turn your lens to the stunning landscapes of Dubai, you'll need to secure the necessary filming permits. The Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC) is responsible for issuing these permits, and you should apply at least five days before your planned shoot. Once approved, the permit is valid for 30 days.

Acquiring a filming permit in Dubai involves the following steps:

Submitting an online application to DFTC. This includes detailing your project, providing your script, and paying the application fee.
Depending on the location, you might need additional permissions. For instance, if you're filming in a mall, you'll need approval from the mall management.
If your project includes drone filming, you'll also require a permit from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.

Finding Ideal Locations

Once you've secured your permits, it's essential to scout for the perfect locations in Dubai that will bring your film's vision to life. Dubai is a melting pot of natural and man-made splendors, each offering unique backdrops that could elevate your storytelling.

Consider the towering skyline, a proof of Dubai's architectural prowess. The Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Marina are iconic spots that can lend a modern, futuristic vibe to your scenes. But don't limit yourself to the cityscape, Dubai's traditional areas like Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, with its wind towers and narrow lanes, can provide a rich cultural context to your narrative.

If you're after more natural settings, the vast Arabian Desert is a compelling choice. Its shifting sands and undulating dunes can serve as a dramatic backdrop for intense sequences. Alternatively, the pristine beaches along Jumeirah can add a touch of tranquility or luxury to your scenes.

Navigating Dubai's Climate

Having chosen your ideal filming locations, it's important to understand how Dubai's climate might impact your production schedule and logistics. This city's climate is characterized by a tropical desert climate, with extremely hot summers and mild winters.

From May to October, temperatures can soar up to 45 degrees Celsius. If you're filming outdoors, make sure your crew and equipment can handle the heat. Consider scheduling shoots during the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
November to April offers more moderate weather, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. This period is the peak tourist season, so expect busier locations.
While rainfall is rare, when it does occur, it can cause disruption due to poor drainage systems. Keep an eye on the weather forecasts.

It's not just about the heat, the high humidity levels, especially in the summer, can affect your equipment and the comfort of your team. Always have cooling measures in place, and consider humidity-proof cases for your equipment. Understanding Dubai's climate can help you plan effectively and ensure a successful film production.

Local Film Production Companies

When you're planning your film production in Dubai, it's essential partnering with a local film production company. They're well-versed with the local landscape, understand the intricacies of obtaining permits, and can help navigate the city's complex filming regulations.

Dubai boasts a plethora of experienced production companies. Some of the leading ones include Seven Production Broadcasting & Production House in Saudi, Filmquip Media, Joy Films, and Mile Studios. These firms offer services ranging from pre-production planning to post-production editing, and everything in between. They're equipped with state-of-the-art technology and experienced crews that can help bring your vision to life.

When selecting a production company, you'll want to contemplate their portfolio, reputation, and pricing. It's also worth asking about their relationships with local authorities, as this can expedite the permitting process.

It's also beneficial to factor in their knowledge of local suppliers. Whether it's equipment rental, catering, or location scouting, their insider knowledge can save you time and money.

Cultural Etiquette to Respect

Exploring Dubai's rich cultural landscape is as important as mastering the technical aspects of filmmaking, so it's essential to understand and respect the local etiquette. This city is a confluence of diverse cultures, but it mostly follows Islamic customs and traditions.

Here are three fundamental aspects to take into account while filming in Dubai:

Dress Code: Dressing modestly is a key aspect of cultural etiquette. Avoid revealing attire and always respect the local dress code. This applies not only to your crew but also to your cast. Make sure that your script doesn't require wardrobe choices that might offend local sensibilities.
Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Dubai. Avoid filming scenes that depict this. Also, it's important to respect the holy month of Ramadan. During this time, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daytime hours is prohibited.
Filming Locations: Always secure permission before filming in any location. This isn't just a legal requirement but also a cultural one. Many places in Dubai are considered sacred and filming without permission can be seen as disrespectful.

Equipment Rental in Dubai

After ensuring you've respected local customs and secured filming permissions, your next step is to equip your crew with the right tools - and Dubai offers a myriad of options for equipment rental. From state-of-the-art cameras to lighting and sound equipment, you'll find everything you need to make your filming project a success.

Dubai is home to several well-established rental companies like Advanced Media, Broadcast Systems Arabia, and HotCold Studio. These companies offer a wide range of high-quality equipment that caters to different budget and project requirements. They also provide technical support and delivery services, ensuring your gear gets to your location safely and on time.

But that's not all. These companies also offer consultation services. If you're not sure what equipment you need, they'll guide you based on your project specifics. They're well-versed in both the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking, ensuring you get the best gear for your unique vision.

Lastly, remember to reserve your equipment well in advance to avoid any last-minute hiccups. The film industry in Dubai is thriving, and equipment can get booked up quickly. So, plan ahead and secure your gear early.

Post-production Services in Dubai

Continuing your filmmaking journey in Dubai, you'll find an array of high-quality post-production services ready to polish and perfect your project. In this bustling city, state-of-the-art studios and post-production houses offer a suite of services that can transform your raw footage into a masterpiece.

Dubai is a hub for creative talent and cutting-edge technologies. Here, you'll find many companies offering services such as:

Visual effects and animation: Expert teams can create stunning VFX, 3D animations, and motion graphics.
Color grading: With advanced software, you can guarantee the desired mood and style for your film.
Audio post-production: Skilled sound engineers and designers will assure your film sounds as good as it looks.

Additionally, many post-production houses in Dubai offer localization services, including subtitling and dubbing, to help make your film accessible to a global audience.

Dubai's post-production landscape is adept at handling projects of all sizes and genres. Whether you're creating a short film, commercial, or a full-length feature, you can count on Dubai's post-production services to deliver high-quality results. In Dubai, your creative vision can truly come to life.