• Sectors we work in banner(2)

    Quick Reads

Abu Dhabi Enhances Film & TV Production Appeal with Increased Cashback Incentive

The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) has announced a strategic enhancement to its film and TV production incentive program, signaling a significant move in the competitive landscape of the Gulf's entertainment industry. Effective from 1 January 2025, the ADFC will augment its cashback rebate from the current 30% to an attractive 35%.

This development arrives as regional competition intensifies, particularly with Saudi Arabia's introduction of a 40% cash rebate in 2022. The ADFC's revised rebate is designed to cement Abu Dhabi's status as a premier global and regional film and TV production hub.

Mohamed Dobay, the Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, the ADFC's overseeing body, stated: "The updated financial rebate support is aligned with global best practices and is set to position Abu Dhabi as a top choice for international filmmakers, further showcasing the emirate on the world stage through diverse content."

Regional Powerhouse

Abu Dhabi, the largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates, pioneered the region's cashback rebate in 2013. The incentive has since attracted over 150 major productions, including both Hollywood and Bollywood blockbusters. This has delivered substantial economic benefits and research indicates that the scheme has a multiplier effect, with every dirham invested returning more than threefold to the local economy.

The emirate's commitment to establishing a robust TV and film ecosystem is evident, with over 800 media companies, including 300 production-specific entities, and a burgeoning freelance talent pool. Initiatives such as the Golden Visa scheme, introduced in 2019, further bolster this growth by offering long-term residency to international talent.

In tandem with the financial incentives, the construction of an expansive twofour54 studio complex, slated for completion in 2025, underscores Abu Dhabi's infrastructure ambitions. The state-of-the-art facilities are expected to include 11 soundstages and a host of other production resources.

Sameer Al Jaberi, head of the ADFC, highlighted the broader benefits of the rebate: "Visiting productions not only stimulate our economy but also provide invaluable learning opportunities for our young creatives, ensuring a sustainable future for the local industry."

Looking Ahead

We anticipate that the ADFC will release further details about the enhanced rebate program as the implementation date approaches, promising to keep the production industry informed.

This move by the ADFC is a clear indication of Abu Dhabi's strategic vision to leverage its competitive advantages in the global film and television production market, offering both financial and professional development incentives to foster a thriving creative industry.

Recognised by industry leaders for our expertise, we have a proven track record of active involvement in the development of the film industry across the Middle East. Please get in touch for more information about how we can assist with your next project. 

Since launching our rebate scheme in 2013, more than 150 major productions have benefited from the offering

Our thinking

  • In-House Insights: Building and Contributing to high performing In-House Legal Teams

    Megan Paul

    Events

  • Switzerland – Obtaining Civil Remedies in Criminal Cases

    Pierre Bydzovsky

    Insights

  • Investment Treaty Arbitration – An Overview

    Thomas R. Snider

    Insights

  • Investing in Africa’s digital economy – the brink of a digital revolution

    Nnamdi Nwokedi

    Quick Reads

  • New Commercial Register Law of Saudi Arabia

    Ahmad Anani

    Insights

  • "AI Battlefields" Conference - Some Highlights

    Nick White

    Quick Reads

  • Navigating the Legal Landscape of Non-Performing Loan Acquisitions in the UAE

    William Reichert

    Quick Reads

  • Navigating the Digital Services Act and Online Safety Act: A Quick Guide for Digital Platform Providers on the need to police content

    Dillon Ravikumar

    Quick Reads

  • Retail Collection – Episode 1: URBN

    Ilona Bateson

    Podcasts

  • Obtaining civil remedies in criminal cases: the UAE, Switzerland and France

    James Colautti

    Insights

  • Qatar's Constitutional Evolution: A New Era of Governance and Unity

    Younis Najem

    Quick Reads

  • Insolvency Insights: Cross border recognition – UAE, DIFC & ADGM

    Nicola Jackson

    Podcasts

  • Charles Russell Speechlys advises The Nero Group on its acquisition of coffee brand 200 Degrees

    Keir Gordon

    News

  • Based on a True Story: Disclaimers in Film and Television – Case Update

    Anna Hackworth

    Quick Reads

  • Qatar’s strategic shift to national workforce empowerment

    Ahmad Anani

    Insights

  • Charles Russell Speechlys supports the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club

    Mazin Al Mardhi

    News

  • Body Image and Advertising: CAP and BCAP Determine that Current Advertising Codes are Sufficient to Address Potential Harms

    Imogen Brown

    Quick Reads

  • What do new sustainability rules mean for the fashion industry?

    Ilona Bateson

    Insights

  • Law.com International cites our Firm in a piece on how many legal jobs will be affected by AI

    Joe Cohen

    In the Press

Back to top