The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC), part of Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority (CMA), has announced an important development aimed at bolstering the film and TV production industry in the emirate. Starting 1 January 2025, the ADFC will increase its current rebate from 30% to a starting rate of 35%++ for qualifying productions. This initiative is expected to enhance Abu Dhabi’s appeal to filmmakers from Hollywood, Bollywood, and the Arab world.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, expressed pride in Abu Dhabi’s pioneering role in offering rebate schemes for film production. “We were the first destination to introduce such a scheme, and we have a proven track record as a regional leader. The updated financial rebate support will ensure we continue attracting international producers and directors from around the globe, positioning Abu Dhabi as a leading destination for film and TV production both regionally and globally,” he said.
Dobay also highlighted the significant economic benefits of hosting blockbuster productions, which not only contribute to local economies through transport, logistics, and accommodation but also provide valuable opportunities to showcase Abu Dhabi as a prime filming location. This, in turn, supports various sectors, including tourism.
Since the launch of the rebate scheme in 2013, over 150 major productions have benefited from the programme. Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, noted that research has independently verified the substantial economic impact of the scheme. For every dirham spent through the rebate, more than three dirhams flow back into the local economy as a result of hosting large-scale productions in the emirate.
Al Jaberi emphasised the dual impact of the rebate scheme: “Alongside the financial stimulus into the economy, visiting productions provide tremendous training opportunities for young creatives, who are the nation’s future storytellers. This focus ensures a strong self-sustaining industry.” He also indicated that as the rebate’s launch date approaches, additional information will be shared with the existing production community to facilitate the transition.
The increase in the rebate is set to enhance an already extensive ecosystem of over 800 locally-based media companies, 300 of which are specifically involved in production. Additionally, it will benefit the emirate’s pool of around 1,000 freelance talent, young individuals seeking training and internship opportunities, and the new golden visa programme. These initiatives complement the recent development of state-of-the-art production facilities known as “twofour54 Studios.”
The ADFC’s commitment to increasing its rebate for film and TV production aligns with its broader vision to position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for creative media. As the industry evolves, this move is anticipated to attract even more international investment, further establishing the emirate as a key player in the global film landscape.
