DUBAI: Filming in Dubai is highly regulated, but for the modern creator, the rules are clearer than ever in 2026. The Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC) is the sole authority responsible for issuing permits for all media production. Whether you are a solo YouTuber or a large production house, understanding the distinction between public, government, and private locations is the key to avoiding fines of up to AED 25,000.
1. The Golden Rule: “Casual” vs. “Commercial”
- Casual Shooting: Taking photos or videos for personal use with a smartphone or small mirrorless camera is generally free in most public areas (e.g., public beaches, walking trails).
- Commercial Shooting: If your content is sponsored, monetized (YouTube AdSense), or uses professional equipment (tripods, reflectors, lighting rigs, or large crews), you must have a DFTC permit. Even if you are a “solo” influencer, 2026 regulations treat monetized content as a commercial activity.
2. DFTC Permit Cost Structure (2026)
Every application requires a non-refundable processing fee of AED 520. From there, costs vary by location type:
| Location Category | Example Sites | Typical Permit Cost (per day) | Notes |
| Public / Government | Roads, Souks, Public Deserts, Jumeirah Beach | AED 2,520 | This fee covers the upkeep of historical and public settings. |
| Semi-Government | Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Design District | AED 0 – AED 25,000 | Operated by entities like Emaar or TECOM. Usually requires a “No Objection Certificate” (NOC). |
| Private Locations | Malls, Hotels, Private Offices, Villas | AED 0 – AED 25,000 | Fees are at the discretion of the owner; small offices may be free. |
| Sensitive Sites | Airports, Metro, Government Buildings | Custom Pricing | Requires 10+ days for security clearance and police coordination. |
3. Spotlight: Where You Can & Can’t Shoot for Free
📍 Kite Beach (Public Municipality)
- For Free: Personal vlogging on a phone or hand-held camera without obstructing others.
- With Permit: Any shoot involving brand placements or large equipment. Since Kite Beach is managed by Dubai Municipality, you will likely pay the standard AED 2,520 public location fee plus the AED 520 processing fee.
📍 Burj Park / Downtown (Emaar/Semi-Government)
- The Reality: This is one of the most strictly monitored areas in the world. Even “small” professional cameras will be flagged by security.
- Cost: You must obtain an NOC from Emaar first. Fees for commercial shoots here are rarely “free” and often scale toward the higher end of the AED 25,000 cap depending on the view of the Burj Khalifa.
📍 Your Own Home or Private Office
- For Free: Generally free if you own the space or have written consent from the landlord.
- The Catch: If your shoot involves a crew or equipment that spills onto the sidewalk or creates a “public disturbance,” a DFTC permit is still legally required.
4. Critical Deadlines & Fines for 2026
- New Mandatory Permit: As of January 31, 2026, all influencers (paid or unpaid but promotional) must hold a UAE Media Council Advertiser Permit. Operating without this can lead to a AED 10,000 fine.
- Filming Violations: * Filming without a DFTC permit: AED 25,000.
- Filming in a location not specified in your permit: AED 15,000.
- Littering or blocking pathways during a shoot: AED 20,000.
5. How to Apply
- Appoint a Sponsor: If you aren’t a UAE-licensed media company, you must partner with a local production house (like Atlas Television or Icon Art) to apply on your behalf.
- Submit Paperwork: Upload your script/storyboard, crew IDs, equipment list, and insurance.
- Timeline: Most ground permits take 3–5 working days. Drone permits can take up to 14 days due to Civil Aviation (DCAA) requirements.
Pro-Tip: If you are filming at sunrise (the “Golden Hour”), security is often more relaxed, but the fines remain the same. Always carry a digital copy of your DFTC permit on your phone to show to security patrols.