Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
From sand dunes to sound stages, Abu Dhabi is quickly becoming Hollywood’s favourite backdrop, offering production support with world-class infrastructure and cultural appeal.
The UAE capital is rising as the region’s movie powerhouse, drawing global filmmakers with its dramatic landscapes that range from futuristic skylines to sweeping deserts.
With major Hollywood productions like “Mission: Impossible”, “Dune”, “F1: The Movie” and more recently, “Now You See Me, Now You Don’t”, choosing Abu Dhabi as a backdrop, the emirate is cementing its place as a go-to location for international blockbusters.
Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) said movie studios benefit from strong, film-friendly government support, which delivers a smooth, end-to end production experience, supported by the Creative Media Authority, the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, and industry partners from both private and government sectors, ADFC said.
Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of ADFC, told Aletihad: “ADFC works closely with production partners to provide support on key aspects of filming in the emirate, including permitting, locations and infrastructure. We coordinate with government entities, connect productions with skilled local talent, and ensure they receive comprehensive logistical and on ground support. Our goal is to create an efficient and flexible environment that meets the needs of all types of productions.”
According to Al Jaberi, Hollywood productions are particularly drawn to locations such as the famous Liwa Desert, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and the Abu Dhabi city centre.
“These areas are all within a two-hour drive of each other, offering diversity and flexibility for all production types. From sweeping desert dunes to modern urban landscapes, iconic landmarks like Louvre Abu Dhabi and Yas Marina Circuit, as well as cinematic city streets. This variety allows filmmakers to capture a wide range of visual styles within close proximity,” he explained.
Al Jaberi pointed out that large-scale productions generate significant economic value for Abu Dhabi by creating jobs, elevating local expertise, and contributing to the tourism and creative sectors.
In the “Now You See Me, Now You Don’t” film alone, over 450 crew members were involved, including 175 UAE-based professionals and five interns who gained hands-on experience, Al Jaberi said.
“These projects stimulate spending across hotels, transportation, local vendors, and service providers and help position Abu Dhabi as a global destination for film, culture, and tourism,” he added.
Since 2020, the Creative Media Authority (CMA) and ADFC have facilitated more than 300 internship placements across more than 100 productions including feature films, documentaries, reality shows and commercials, both in the UAE and abroad, Al Jaberi added.
“More than 50% of participants have been Emirati nationals,” he said, indicating that more than 40 former interns are now working professionally within Abu Dhabi’s film and media sector, reflecting the lasting impact of CMA’s commitment to building career pathways for creative talent.
“Abu Dhabi is steadily building a robust and reliable production ecosystem supported by long-term partnerships and world-class creative infrastructure. We expect the Emirate to strengthen its role as a preferred hub for major productions internationally and from the region, while continuing to invest in local talent development, sustainability, and cutting-edge technologies across the entertainment industry.”
The CMA’s Talent Development Department leads a wide range of initiatives designed to empower Emirati and UAE-based talent with real-world experience on international productions, including on-set training placements, long-term development programmes, and industry focused workshops, according to Al Jaberi.
“We ensure that every project filmed here contributes meaningfully to skills development, cultural representation, and a sustainable production ecosystem that grows alongside the global industry,” he said.
These major productions significantly elevate the UAE’s global profile, not only in the film industry, but also in tourism and the wider creative economy. The visibility of Abu Dhabi on screen inspires audiences to explore the locations they see on screen, driving tourism interest and economic activity.
