Dubai Film and TV Commission announces a reduced processing time of 3 days for filming permits

Dubai, UAE - 15 September 2015: Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC) has announced that the processing time for filming permits in the Emirate has been reduced to a minimum of three working days, effective 14th September 2015. This is a major step towards easing the filming process in Dubai, and further enhances the Emirate’s position as a leading production destination.

Details were announced during DFTC’s ‘Industry Insider Session’ for business partners, filmmakers and producers. The networking event is held by DFTC to provide an opportunity for the production community to discuss industry related issues, voice concerns, and open more business opportunities within the media production industry.

DFTC has introduced a number of initiatives so far this year to enhance the filming process in Dubai. This has also included a reduced fee structure for filming in government and semi-government locations, to allow filmmakers and producers to enjoy more filming days for their fees, as well as a reduction in processing fees. DFTC also launched an online automated permitting system last year, and introduced the second edition of the production guide, which offers a complete printed directory of film and production resources in Dubai.

Jamal Al Sharif, Chairman of Dubai Film and TV Commission and Managing Director of Dubai Studio City, said:

“We are always looking at ways we can enhance the filming process in Dubai, and ensure it is as efficient and cost-effective as possible. The growth in the Emirate’s film industry this year has been outstanding, with major Hollywood and Bollywood productions taking place in Dubai such as Star Trek, and with our new reduced permit time it will make it more easy and efficient to film in Dubai, which in turn will encourage even more productions to the Emirate over the coming years.”

Adnan Almalki, Executive Producer and Partner of Flicker Show Productions, who attended the session also commented: “For a producer, the turnaround time of paper works is really crucial, so reducing the permits time to 3 days is a huge improvement for us in terms of time and money. It also means that we can now win more last minute projects, Adnan added: “Other initiatives that DFTC have been taking including dropping the fees significantly, are considered an essential step for the business community, because it is a growing concern for us, where we have to be competitive in the international and local scene, and we have to be more cost effective to compete with somewhere like Thailand for example. In my opinion, DFTC are making real steps towards promoting Dubai as a filming hub and attracting more productions to The Emirate.”

Karen Coetzee, Producer and Production Consultant at Central Films concluded: “DFTC is clearly committed to working as partners with Production Companies and we’re delighted that the permitting costs and timings have improved so much. It is vital that Producers are engaged in the key decisions that are made with regards to the rules and regulations for permits and procedures.

We have a collaborative Production Company network in Dubai that continues to grow in its professionalism and, as a community, we continue to share experiences and help one another to ensure a first class filming environment.”