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Abu Dhabi raises the stakes: New rebate incentives to attract film productions
Abu Dhabi is once again demonstrating its commitment to becoming a premier hub for film and TV productions by increasing its rebate on production costs. This move is part of a broader strategy to elevate the UAE capital’s status in the global entertainment industry.
Boosting the rebate: A game changer
The Abu Dhabi Film Commission has made the exciting announcement that starting January 2025, the rebate for qualified below-the-line spend will be increased from 30% to over 35%. This initiative marks the beginning of an extensive plan to enhance all sectors of the creative industry in Abu Dhabi. As per the acting director general of Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority (CMA), Mohamed Dobai, the goal is to create a more appealing environment for filmmakers worldwide.
State-of-the-art facilities set to be ready
In an exclusive conversation, Dobai revealed that the previously announced twofour54 Studios, a world-class production facility featuring soundstages, an exterior water tank, and six adaptable standing sets, will be operational within a year. This development is accompanied by efforts to expand the pool of professional freelancers available for production work. With more than 1,000 licensed freelancers already on board, Abu Dhabi is poised to support a larger influx of productions.
A decade of success
Since the introduction of its innovative rebate scheme in 2013, Abu Dhabi has hosted over 150 productions, acting as a scenic backdrop for high-profile Hollywood franchises like Dune, Star Wars, and Fast and Furious. Additionally, the stunning landscape of the Liwa desert and oasis has lured blockbuster Bollywood movies such as Bharat and Tiger Zinda Hai.
Economic impact and tourism boost
The economic benefits of Abu Dhabi’s rebate program are substantial. According to the film commission chief Sameer Al Jaberi, the rebate has generated a multiplier effect of approximately three times the initial investment over the past decade. This not only bolsters the local media industry but also significantly boosts tourism, as international productions highlight Abu Dhabi’s unique locales.
Details and future plans
As the January 2025 commencement of the enhanced rebate program approaches, specific details such as the exact percentage and potential caps will be disclosed. Representatives, including Dobai and Al Jaberi, along with top executives from twofour54 Abu Dhabi and other industry partners, are currently at the Mipcom TV market to promote these new incentives and attract more business.
Safety and ongoing projects
Despite regional tensions, Abu Dhabi maintains its status as one of the world’s safest cities. This security, coupled with the city’s robust infrastructure and incentives, continues to attract numerous regional and international productions. While details of some active projects remain under wraps due to non-disclosure agreements, the most recent notable production was Dune: Part Two. This film utilized the captivating Liwa Oasis to depict the desert planet Arrakis, home to the iconic sandworms.
Abu Dhabi’s strategic increase in the rebate for film and TV productions, along with the expansion of its facilities and freelancer network, is a calculated move to solidify its position as a leading production destination. Stay tuned for more updates on this transformative initiative and the exciting new projects it will bring to life.
