Abu Dhabi Film Commission Cashback Rebate
A cashback rebate on production and post-production spend in Abu Dhabi, at a 35% baseline with a points-based uplift taking it to a maximum of 50%. Run by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission within the Creative Media Authority.
Eligibility
Feature films, TV series and programmes and TV commercials, supported since the rebate began in 2013. Reality TV, game shows, short films and animation were added for qualifying productions from 1 January 2025.
Conditions
The uplift is scored on a points system: 10 to 14 points earns 2.5% above the 35% baseline, rising to 15% for productions scoring 85 or above. Points come from featuring the UAE's national history, culture and identity; completing full post-production in Abu Dhabi; main unit production of a feature film in the emirate; using Emirati talent; or filming an entire TV series there. The uplift requires the commission's full and absolute approval. Interim certificate validity is 90 days, raised from 60.
What we could not establish. Terms are taken from the announcement of the change, not from a standing guidelines page, so later amendments would not appear here until the next check. No minimum spend is stated in the announcement. The uplift is discretionary — the commission's approval is described as full and absolute — so the 50% figure is a ceiling, not an entitlement.
Sources
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