Abu Dhabi Introduces Multi-Layered Enhancements for 35% Plus Rebate to Attract Global Productions
Abu Dhabi is set to elevate its status as a premier film and television production hub with the announcement of significant enhancements to its existing rebate scheme, announced on December 30, 2024, by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC). This initiative aims to attract more international productions by increasing the total cash rebate by up to 50%, building on the existing 35% rebate introduced earlier this year.
The newly released guidelines introduce a clear set of eligibility criteria coupled with a variable points system. Productions can now obtain a total cash rebate of 50% based on fulfilling specific requirements outlined by ADFC. As a pioneer in the region’s rebate system, Abu Dhabi has already successfully supported over 170 major productions since the establishment of its rebate initiative in 2013.
Beginning on January 1, 2025, qualifying productions will be eligible for the improved rebate structure which has increased the baseline from 30% to 35%++. Productions can earn additional points by showcasing the UAE’s culture and history, conducting post-production work in Abu Dhabi, or shooting full-length features within the emirate. Under this revamped system, productions that gather between 10 to 14 points will see a 2.5% increase on top of the 35% base rate. Meanwhile, those achieving scores of 85 points and above can enjoy an additional 15% boost, bringing their total possible rebate to an impressive 50%.
In addition to higher rebate rates, ADFC is expanding the types of production formats that qualify for this scheme. Effective January 1, 2025, the rebate will cover new formats like reality shows, game shows, and animated productions, which were not previously eligible. This expansion brings the rebate availability to other existing formats, including feature films, television series, and commercials.
Alongside the higher rebate rates, ADFC is also raising the maximum financial aid caps for qualifying productions. For instance, the eligible production costs for feature films in Abu Dhabi will now be increased from $5 million to $10 million.
The rebate procedure is also being streamlined. The provisional certificate's validity has increased from 60 to 90 days, giving production teams extra time to initiate principal photography in Abu Dhabi. Once the definitive certificate is issued, producers can expect to receive funds within 30 working days, a drop from the previous 60-day wait.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, commented on the recent changes stating, "As pioneers of the rebate system in the region, film and television production remains a crucial pillar for the development of our creative industries, differentiating Abu Dhabi strategically. The updates we’ve introduced will continue to ignite interest globally and regionally, reinforcing our ambition for Abu Dhabi to be a leading cinematic destination internationally."
Ben Piltz, a production manager, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unmatched benefits from Abu Dhabi’s rebate system. The opportunity to secure higher financial backing while showcasing local culture and utilizing local talents is an appealing prospect for anyone considering filming in Abu Dhabi.
With over 800 local media companies benefiting from the existing scheme, and numerous international productions such as Warner Bros. Pictures and Disney turning their attention to Abu Dhabi, the strengthened rebate system promises substantial economic impact. Studies suggest that for every dirham spent via the industry’s swift payment processes, more than three dirhams flow back into the local economy, further underlining the initiative's significance in fostering both creative talent and financial growth within the region.
ADFC’s measures reflect an intention not only to maintain but also to enhance Abu Dhabi’s reputation as an attractive location for filmmakers worldwide, supporting local talent and enhancing the city’s already flourishing creative ecosystem.
The newly released guidelines introduce a clear set of eligibility criteria coupled with a variable points system. Productions can now obtain a total cash rebate of 50% based on fulfilling specific requirements outlined by ADFC. As a pioneer in the region’s rebate system, Abu Dhabi has already successfully supported over 170 major productions since the establishment of its rebate initiative in 2013.
Beginning on January 1, 2025, qualifying productions will be eligible for the improved rebate structure which has increased the baseline from 30% to 35%++. Productions can earn additional points by showcasing the UAE’s culture and history, conducting post-production work in Abu Dhabi, or shooting full-length features within the emirate. Under this revamped system, productions that gather between 10 to 14 points will see a 2.5% increase on top of the 35% base rate. Meanwhile, those achieving scores of 85 points and above can enjoy an additional 15% boost, bringing their total possible rebate to an impressive 50%.
In addition to higher rebate rates, ADFC is expanding the types of production formats that qualify for this scheme. Effective January 1, 2025, the rebate will cover new formats like reality shows, game shows, and animated productions, which were not previously eligible. This expansion brings the rebate availability to other existing formats, including feature films, television series, and commercials.
Alongside the higher rebate rates, ADFC is also raising the maximum financial aid caps for qualifying productions. For instance, the eligible production costs for feature films in Abu Dhabi will now be increased from $5 million to $10 million.
The rebate procedure is also being streamlined. The provisional certificate's validity has increased from 60 to 90 days, giving production teams extra time to initiate principal photography in Abu Dhabi. Once the definitive certificate is issued, producers can expect to receive funds within 30 working days, a drop from the previous 60-day wait.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, commented on the recent changes stating, "As pioneers of the rebate system in the region, film and television production remains a crucial pillar for the development of our creative industries, differentiating Abu Dhabi strategically. The updates we’ve introduced will continue to ignite interest globally and regionally, reinforcing our ambition for Abu Dhabi to be a leading cinematic destination internationally."
Ben Piltz, a production manager, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unmatched benefits from Abu Dhabi’s rebate system. The opportunity to secure higher financial backing while showcasing local culture and utilizing local talents is an appealing prospect for anyone considering filming in Abu Dhabi.
With over 800 local media companies benefiting from the existing scheme, and numerous international productions such as Warner Bros. Pictures and Disney turning their attention to Abu Dhabi, the strengthened rebate system promises substantial economic impact. Studies suggest that for every dirham spent via the industry’s swift payment processes, more than three dirhams flow back into the local economy, further underlining the initiative's significance in fostering both creative talent and financial growth within the region.
ADFC’s measures reflect an intention not only to maintain but also to enhance Abu Dhabi’s reputation as an attractive location for filmmakers worldwide, supporting local talent and enhancing the city’s already flourishing creative ecosystem.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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