Abu Dhabi has unveiled a major overhaul of its film and TV production rebate scheme, offering global companies up to 50% cashback on in-market production and post-production costs starting 1 January 2025. The updated programme aims to boost Abu Dhabi’s position as a key global destination for film and TV production, further fuelling investment in the emirate’s creative industries.
Previously set at a 30% rebate, the new scheme has increased the baseline to 35%, with the possibility of up to 50% total cashback for productions that meet specific criteria. The changes are designed to attract international production companies, support local businesses, and provide a significant boost to Abu Dhabi’s economy.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority (CMA), described the rebate programme as “a key pillar” in the emirate’s strategy to grow its creative sector. He emphasised the importance of these initiatives in establishing Abu Dhabi as a leading film and TV production hub. “We have curated several levels of changes to the rebate, which will continue to fuel global and regional interest in Abu Dhabi,” Dobay said.
The new rebate system is based on a points structure. Productions that score between 10 and 14 points will receive an additional 2.5% rebate, while those scoring 85 points or more will earn a 15% uplift on the baseline. Points can be accumulated in various ways, including featuring UAE national history and culture in the content, completing post-production work in Abu Dhabi, and filming a full feature film or TV series in the emirate.
In an effort to broaden the scheme’s scope, additional formats such as reality TV, game shows, short films, and animations will now be eligible for the rebate, alongside existing formats such as feature films, TV series, and commercials.
In a significant development, the rebate caps for qualifying productions have been raised. The new guidelines allow for a rebate on production expenditure (ADQPE) up to US$10 million for feature films, double the previous cap of US$5 million.
The process for applying for the rebate has also been streamlined. Productions will now benefit from a 90-day interim certificate validity, giving them more time to start filming. Once the final rebate certificate is issued, producers can expect to receive funds within 30 business days, a significant reduction from the previous 60-day timeframe.
Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, remarked that the initial positive reception of the baseline increase had led to a surge in international interest, and he expects the latest updates to drive further demand. He highlighted that the rebate scheme not only attracts global productions but also supports the local creative talent pool, including young individuals seeking training and freelancers employed on set.
The rebate scheme also contributes to the local economy, with research showing that for every dirham paid in rebates, more than three dirhams flow back into the economy. With over 170 major productions having been shot in Abu Dhabi in recent years, including blockbusters such as Dune and Mission: Impossible, the emirate has established itself as a sought-after destination for high-profile film and TV projects.
This enhanced rebate is expected to provide a boost to the growing media ecosystem in Abu Dhabi, benefiting local companies, freelancers, and aspiring talent, while further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier filming location.