Abu Dhabi Unveils New Cashback Rebate Program To Attract Global Productions

Abu Dhabi's Ambitious Cashback Rebate Enhancements

In a major move to attract film and television productions from around the world, Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC), part of the Creative Media Authority (CMA), has announced significant enhancements to its rebate program, effective from January 1, 2025. The new structure aims to elevate the total cashback rebate from the baseline of 35% to potential levels of 50% based on the fulfillment of clear qualifying criteria and an innovative sliding-scale points system.

A Game-Changer for Global Productions

The implementation of a structured points system allows productions to benefit from increased financial incentives, further incentivizing filmmakers to consider Abu Dhabi as a prime production destination. Productions will earn additional percentages based on activities such as incorporation of UAE’s cultural elements, completing post-production within the emirate, or filming entire projects in Abu Dhabi. This update comes in response to the earlier increase from 30% to 35% announced in the third quarter of 2024, marking a continued commitment to boosting the local film industry.

According to Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the CMA, film and TV productions play a vital role in enhancing the emirate’s creative landscape and stimulating its economy. He stated, “The curated modifications to our rebate scheme are designed to not only attract international investments but also cultivate local expertise and talent. We envision a thriving ecosystem where film and television production flourishes, benefiting local businesses and employment.”

Expanded Reach for Diverse Productions

The enhanced rebate structure also introduces new qualifying formats. Starting from 2025, productions such as reality TV, game shows, short films, and animated works will also benefit from these rebates. This variety broadens the scope of creative projects that can thrive under this initiative and reflects ADFC's commitment to supporting the evolving media landscape.

Additionally, the financial caps for rebates have been significantly raised, particularly for feature films, which can now qualify for expenses of up to $10 million, doubling the previous limit. This change is expected to attract larger projects and studios keen on leveraging Abu Dhabi’s unique setting for their narratives.

Streamlined Rebates Processes

To further enhance efficiency, ADFC has refined its rebate process. Production teams now enjoy a longer timeframe for obtaining interim certificates, extending the validity from 60 to 90 days. In terms of speed, the timeline from certificate issuance to fund disbursement has been cut to 30 business days, down from 60.

This agility in processing aligns with the requirements of the fast-paced film production schedule, ensuring that funds are available when needed, thus reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as an attractive filming location.

Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of ADFC, shared that the feedback from the initial increase in rebates was overwhelmingly positive, resulting in heightened interest from global productions. “The updates we announce now shall undoubtedly further boost this influx, while also providing significant economic stimulus.”

A Booming Ecosystem

The implications of these enhancements extend beyond just financial aspects. Over 170 major productions have taken advantage of Abu Dhabi’s favorable filming conditions in recent years, including international blockbusters like Dune and the Mission Impossible series. Such productions not only support and elevate local talent but also establish valuable training opportunities for the youth.

Furthermore, this initiative is part of a larger strategy to bolster a vibrant local media industry, positively impacting over 800 local media companies and a volunteer pool of freelancers preparing to seize the opportunities provided by foreign productions.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi is keen on establishing itself as a leading film production destination globally, and the augmented cashback rebate system is a strategic step in this direction. As productions start to flow in, the city stands to gain significant cultural and economic benefits, enriching not just its film industry but the entire creative ecosystem within the emirate. With its luxurious landscapes and advanced infrastructure, Abu Dhabi is undoubtedly on its way to becoming a coveted location for filmmakers worldwide.