The United Arab Emirates’ twin giants, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, are quickly establishing themselves as global cinematic powerhouses. Once viewed primarily as exotic filming backdrops, both cities have now transformed into fully equipped production ecosystems, drawing blockbuster films, streaming giants, and television dramas from around the world. This rise has been driven by a perfect blend of strategic incentives, cutting-edge infrastructure, and breathtakingly diverse landscapes that can mimic almost any setting on Earth.
The turning point came in 2024, when Abu Dhabi announced an enhanced 35%+ film and TV production rebate, effective January 1, 2025. This initiative, one of the most competitive in the world, was designed to attract big-budget productions and solidify the UAE as the Middle East’s filmmaking hub. The rebate, managed by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission and twofour54, complements Dubai’s mature production infrastructure and film-friendly policies, creating a unified ecosystem for producers seeking both cost efficiency and world-class quality. The appeal goes beyond finances; few destinations offer the cinematic versatility of the UAE. Within a few hours’ drive, filmmakers can shoot amid the vast dunes of Liwa, the futuristic architecture of Downtown Dubai, the serene beaches of Saadiyat, or the fossil dunes of Al Wathba, all without logistical hurdles.
Hollywood and international studios have already capitalized on this flexibility. Major titles such as “Dune” (shot in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Desert), “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”, “Mission: Impossible- Ghost Protocol”, “Furious 7”, and “Star Trek Beyond” have used the UAE as a stunning backdrop. These films not only contributed millions in direct spending but also showcased the Emirates’ landscapes to global audiences. Tom Cruise’s iconic Burj Khalifa climb remains one of modern cinema’s most memorable moments, while Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune” turned the Liwa Desert into the legendary planet Arrakis, solidifying the UAE’s reputation for scale and cinematic spectacle.
At the heart of this momentum lie two complementary production zones. Abu Dhabi focuses on large-scale, desert, and futuristic settings, offering locations such as Liwa, Al Dhafra, and Etihad Towers, supported by a growing number of soundstages and post-production facilities. The emirate’s enhanced rebate directly targets international and regional filmmakers, ensuring both inbound investment and local industry development. Meanwhile, Dubai Studio City continues to be a magnet for both feature films and television dramas, boasting 198 shooting days and over 358,000 minutes of original content recorded in a single year. Its modern soundstages, versatile backlots, and streamlined permit system make it a one-stop destination for productions of all scales.
From a business perspective, the UAE’s production model offers a rare blend of financial efficiency and logistical certainty. Combining a 35%+ rebate with tax-free operations, swift permitting, and robust crew support gives producers a clear budget advantage. These savings, paired with the convenience of clustered locations and minimal red tape, have positioned the UAE as one of the most reliable production centers globally. The ripple effect extends far beyond the screen into hospitality, tourism, and cultural diplomacy. Productions translate into thousands of hotel stays, equipment rentals, and job opportunities, driving significant local revenue.
The country’s cinema sector has mirrored this momentum. In 2024, box-office revenues reached approximately AED 800 million, driven by blockbusters like “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” and “Deadpool & Wolverine.” This resurgence underscores the UAE’s thriving film culture, bolstered by luxury cinemas and a growing appetite for premium theatrical experiences. Meanwhile, the rise of regional dramas and streaming series filmed locally has further diversified the industry. Streamers and broadcasters increasingly rely on UAE-based stages and bilingual crews to produce Arabic and international content, fostering a sustainable creative economy.
Beyond economics, Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s cinematic ascent has also ignited film tourism. Movie fans now visit the Liwa Desert to experience the “Dune” dunes firsthand or stand beneath the Burj Khalifa, recalling Cruise’s legendary stunt. This fusion of entertainment and tourism has amplified the UAE’s global brand as both a filming destination and a travel hotspot.
As 2025 unfolds, all indicators point toward continued expansion. With enhanced incentives, state-of-the-art facilities, and growing international partnerships, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are transitioning from being mere filming locations to becoming a complete production base equipped to host everything from global franchises to prestige television. The combination of policy, talent, and place has transformed the UAE into the Middle East’s cinematic capital, redefining what it means to make movies in the desert.
