Abu Dhabi Film Comission

The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) is a government agency established in 2009 under twofour54 Abu Dhabi. Its primary objective is to support the growth and development of Abu Dhabi's film and TV industry. A key mission of the commission is to position Abu Dhabi as an attractive production destination, leading to economic benefits for the region and increased job opportunities for its residents.

The ADFC offers a range of services to production companies aiming to enhance film production in the region. These services include location scouting and surveys, script breakdowns and approvals, custom clearance assistance, access to a digital location library, and support with film and work permits.

The ADFC understands the requirements for creating high-quality content and aims to meet the expectations of filmmakers. Their dedicated team assists production companies throughout the entire production process, providing guidance on accessing the 30% cash back rebate on production spend, assisting with shooting permits, visas, and customs clearance, and connecting them with experienced professional crews and supplier bases. The commission also helps in finding top-notch studios and post-production facilities at competitive rates and offers advice on accommodations and dining options.

Through its comprehensive support and resources, the Abu Dhabi Film Commission plays a crucial role in advancing the film and TV industry in Abu Dhabi and promoting it both locally and internationally.

The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) has a relatively short but impactful history in supporting and developing the film and TV industry in Abu Dhabi. It was established in 2009 as part of twofour54 Abu Dhabi, a media and entertainment free zone in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The creation of the ADFC was a strategic move by the Abu Dhabi government to promote Abu Dhabi as a thriving hub for film production and attract international productions to the region. Recognizing the potential economic benefits and job opportunities that a thriving film industry can bring, the ADFC was tasked with supporting the growth of the local film and TV sector.

Since its inception, the ADFC has been actively involved in fostering partnerships and collaborations with local and international production companies, industry professionals, and government entities. One of its primary goals is to position Abu Dhabi as a desirable production destination, offering a range of services and incentives to attract filmmakers.

The ADFC provides comprehensive support to production companies, offering services such as location scouting, location surveys, script approvals, custom clearances, and assistance with film and work permits. By facilitating these processes, the ADFC aims to make the production experience seamless and efficient for filmmakers.

Furthermore, the ADFC has played a crucial role in developing the local talent pool and infrastructure necessary for a thriving film industry. It has been instrumental in training and nurturing local talents, supporting the growth of the film and TV workforce in Abu Dhabi. The commission also collaborates with international organizations and institutions to enhance the skill sets of local professionals.

Over the years, the ADFC's efforts have yielded positive results, attracting numerous international productions to Abu Dhabi. This has not only brought economic benefits to the region but has also contributed to the diversification of Abu Dhabi's economy and the creation of employment opportunities in the film and TV sector.

Today, the Abu Dhabi Film Commission continues to play a vital role in promoting Abu Dhabi as a premier production destination, supporting local talent, and driving the growth of the film and TV industry in the region. With its dedication to excellence and commitment to fostering a conducive environment for filmmaking, the ADFC is a key player in shaping Abu Dhabi's reputation as a dynamic and thriving hub for the entertainment industry.

The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) has distinct goals and purposes that drive its activities and initiatives in supporting and developing the film and TV industry in Abu Dhabi. These goals are aligned with the vision of the Abu Dhabi government and aim to position Abu Dhabi as a prominent destination for film production and to contribute to the growth and diversification of the local economy.

Promote Abu Dhabi as a Production Destination: The ADFC's primary goal is to showcase Abu Dhabi as an attractive location for local and international filmmakers. By highlighting the region's unique landscapes, diverse locations, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, the ADFC aims to draw filmmakers to choose Abu Dhabi as their production destination.

Generate Economic Benefits: An important purpose of the ADFC is to generate economic benefits for Abu Dhabi and the wider region. By attracting film and TV productions, the ADFC stimulates spending in various sectors, such as hospitality, tourism, and local businesses, leading to job creation and increased revenue for the local economy.

Create Job Opportunities: The ADFC strives to create employment opportunities within the film and TV industry in Abu Dhabi. Through its support and promotion of local talent, the commission aims to develop a skilled workforce and foster a sustainable industry that offers career prospects for individuals in various roles, from cast and crew to post-production professionals.

Support Local Talent and Content Creation: The ADFC is committed to nurturing and supporting local talent in the film and TV industry. It provides training programs, workshops, and resources to enhance the skills of aspiring filmmakers and encourages the creation of original content that reflects the local culture and perspectives.

Facilitate Production Processes: The ADFC acts as a facilitator for production companies by providing a range of services and assistance. This includes location scouting, obtaining shooting permits, script approvals, customs clearances, and other logistical support. By streamlining these processes, the ADFC aims to make Abu Dhabi an efficient and filmmaker-friendly production environment.

Enhance Industry Infrastructure: The ADFC recognizes the importance of having a robust infrastructure to support a thriving film and TV industry. It collaborates with partners to develop and enhance facilities, including studios, post-production houses, and technical equipment, creating an environment conducive to high-quality productions.

Foster Industry Collaborations: The ADFC actively fosters collaborations and partnerships with international production companies, industry professionals, and government entities. By connecting Abu Dhabi with the global film community, the commission aims to promote knowledge exchange, talent sharing, and co-productions, further enhancing the growth and reputation of the local industry.

The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) has made significant impacts on the film and TV industry in Abu Dhabi, as well as on the local economy and cultural landscape. Its initiatives and support have brought about several positive outcomes that have contributed to the growth and development of the industry and the region as a whole.

Economic Growth and Diversification: One of the key impacts of the ADFC is the economic growth and diversification it has brought to Abu Dhabi. By attracting local and international film and TV productions, the commission has stimulated spending in various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, transportation, and local businesses. This has created employment opportunities and increased revenue, contributing to the overall economic development and diversification of the region.

Job Creation and Skill Development: The ADFC's efforts have led to the creation of numerous job opportunities within the film and TV industry in Abu Dhabi. The commission's support for local talent and training programs has helped develop a skilled workforce, providing employment for individuals in various roles, including cast, crew, technicians, and production staff. This has not only contributed to the growth of the industry but has also created career prospects for local professionals.

Cultural Representation and Promotion: Through its support for local talent and content creation, the ADFC has played a crucial role in promoting Abu Dhabi's culture and heritage on a global scale. The commission encourages filmmakers to showcase the Emirate's unique landscapes, traditions, and perspectives, leading to a more diverse representation of Abu Dhabi in international films and TV shows. This cultural promotion enhances the region's global recognition and fosters a sense of pride among its residents.

Infrastructure Development: The ADFC has contributed to the development of infrastructure necessary for the film and TV industry in Abu Dhabi. This includes the establishment and expansion of world-class studios, post-production facilities, and technical equipment. By enhancing the industry's infrastructure, the commission has created an environment that supports high-quality productions and attracts international filmmakers and production companies to choose Abu Dhabi as a preferred destination.

International Collaboration and Reputation: The ADFC's collaborations and partnerships with international production companies, industry professionals, and government entities have helped establish Abu Dhabi as a reputable and desirable location for film and TV productions. These collaborations have facilitated knowledge exchange, talent sharing, and co-productions, elevating Abu Dhabi's profile in the global film industry and attracting high-profile projects to the region.

Cultural Exchange and Creative Dialogue: Through its support for international productions and participation in global film events, the ADFC has facilitated cultural exchange and creative dialogue between Abu Dhabi and the international film community. This exchange of ideas, experiences, and artistic perspectives enriches the local industry and fosters a vibrant creative ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.