Filming and drone permits in Dubai: what event photographers and videographers need to check
Photographers and videographers get asked the same thing before every shoot: is a permit needed? The answer depends on what you film, where you film and whether a drone is involved.
Short answer
Commercial filming in Dubai generally needs a permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission, which asks for applications at least seven business days before the first shoot day. Drone filming needs separate approvals, including aviation and defence clearances. Sources disagree on whether ordinary indoor events need a filming permit, so confirm with the Commission and the venue before you book the crew.
| Commercial filming | Permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission |
|---|---|
| Lead time | Apply at least 7 business days before the first filming day (Commission guidance) |
| Drones | Separate aerial approvals, with several authorities involved |
| Events | Sources differ. Confirm with the Commission and the venue |
| Venues | Malls, hotels and sites set their own filming rules |
The filming permit
The Dubai Film and TV Commission handles permits for filming in Dubai. Guides from permit agencies agree that commercial work needs one, and some say the test is commercial intent rather than camera size. The Commission's application guidance asks for applications at least seven business days before the first filming day.
Because requirements and fees change, take them from the Commission directly. We cite the Commission's pages below and have not reproduced fees here.
Events and exhibitions
This is where sources conflict. One guide says weddings, events, press conferences and personal filming do not need a filming permit. Another says professionals capturing events in public spaces, hotels or venues do. Treat the general rule as unsettled and ask the Commission about your case.
Also ask the venue. Malls, hotels, exhibition centres and attractions set their own rules for professional cameras, lighting and crews, and an organiser may have an official photographer. Put this on the checklist next to the event permits you already need.
Drone filming
Drones are treated separately. Dubai Culture's service page says four approvals are involved: the Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Defence, the Dubai Film and TV Commission and Dubai Culture. The Commission's aerial application page lists the drone's registration, the operator's registration card and proof of operator training among the documents.
Timelines quoted by third parties vary widely, so apply early and do not promise aerial shots to a client until the approval is in hand.
What to ask your photographer or videographer
- Do you hold the permits you need, or does the client apply?
- Have you filmed at this venue before, and what did the venue require?
- Is a drone part of the plan, and is the aerial approval in place?
- Who owns the footage, and for which uses?
- Are model or location releases needed for the people and places on camera?
For what to book and what to receive, read event photography and video coverage in Dubai. Our team can plan the shoot and the paperwork together, see video and photo production or send us the brief.
Questions
Do I need a permit to film in Dubai?
Commercial filming generally needs a permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission. Whether a particular event needs one is not settled across sources, so confirm with the Commission.
How long before the shoot should I apply for a filming permit?
The Commission's guidance asks for applications at least seven business days before the first filming day. Apply earlier for complex shoots.
Can I fly a drone at an event in Dubai?
Only with the right approvals. Several authorities are involved, including civil aviation and defence, and the drone and operator must be registered.
Does the venue also have rules for photographers?
Yes. Malls, hotels and exhibition centres usually set their own rules for professional cameras and crews, so ask the venue as well as the authorities.
