For those already in Dubai or wishing to travel to the United Arab Emirates to film, both the government and an evolving local media and film production industry are making it easier for aspiring filmmakers to break into the industry.
Over the past decade, the world’s celluloid lens has turned its attention to Dubai, the rapidly growing emirate of the UAE. Tom Cruises’ mission impossible 4 ghost protocolto Fast and furious 7, It is becoming increasingly apparent that Dubai is attracting the attention of Hollywood’s elite. Many major and international media production houses are beginning to see the benefits, both on and off screen, of using the United Arab Emirates as a filming location: year-round sunlight, futuristic architecture, and a Traditional Arabic add to the appeal of the place.
consequently, film festivals have been established here, and both Abu Dhabi and Dubai hold well-known film gatherings. This is good news for aspiring local filmmakers; writers, screenwriters and even actors, as a network of quality resources are growing. In addition, several locally run video production houses that would normally focus their technical and creative services on developing corporate videos or music videos are now taking the initiative to expand their scope of services into short films, documentaries and other entertainment avenues to satisfy a increasing demand. basic client.
The process of developing an independent feature film with a privately owned media production company in Dubai is usually the fastest and most efficient means of making a film as it usually covers the steps required to shoot such as getting the correct filming permits etc. .
However, for any individual or organization brave enough to go it alone, you should contact The Dubai Film and Television Commission (DFTC). This department works with other government entities such as the Dubai Directorate General of Residence and Foreign Affairs, the Dubai Municipality, the Dubai Police and the Highways and Transport Authority. However, they will not provide filmmakers with the necessary equipment and talent to make any movie come to fruition.
Today, local media production companies in the UAE are producing an unprecedented amount of creative entertainment media features. In 2013 alone, 15 major productions have been officially announced and it is expected that as the local and international economy continues to grow, so will the industry. For any person or organization looking to get a foot in the door, many of these media producers, in addition to working with any bureaucracy, will handle the technical aspects of their role and some may even help develop the creative content.
For foreigners wishing to film within the United Arab Emirates, please note that although this Gulf country is relatively liberal and open-minded (especially Dubai), the cultural sensitivities and stricter rules and regulations of which one cannot being accused must be met, respected and most of the time all culturally understood.
