The UAE is rapidly cementing its position as a global hub for Hollywood filming and media production, driven by world-class infrastructure, creative free zones, and deepening partnerships with major American studios. With dedicated media ecosystems and a growing reputation as a top filming destination, the country is attracting A-list talent and big-budget productions at an accelerating pace.
UAE's Media Free Zones: The Engine Behind Hollywood Filming
Abu Dhabi's media free zone twofour54 and Dubai Media City have become central pillars of this growth. These hubs host major US-based media companies including CNN, National Geographic, and MTV, offering an environment purpose-built for creativity, innovation, and international collaboration.
Together, they provide advanced production facilities, talent development programs, and business-friendly regulations that appeal to global studios. Abu Dhabi also offers a 30% cashback rebate on qualified production spend — a major incentive that has drawn dozens of international productions to the emirate.
Michael Bay, Ryan Reynolds, and the 6 Underground Shoot
Hollywood's presence in the UAE has grown significantly over the past decade. Renowned filmmaker Michael Bay partnered with twofour54 and the Abu Dhabi Film Commission to shoot large portions of his Netflix action film 6 Underground — starring Ryan Reynolds — across 24 UAE locations over 27 days.
Filming spanned iconic sites including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers, the Liwa desert, and twofour54's backlot. The Abu Dhabi Film Commission's cashback rebate and twofour54's full-service production support — covering permits, logistics, accommodation, and transportation — made the shoot possible at scale.
The UAE has also served as a filming location for major blockbusters including Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Fast & Furious 7, Dune, and Mission: Impossible – Fallout, reinforcing its reputation as a preferred destination for high-budget international productions.
Image Nation: Abu Dhabi's Hollywood Co-Production Powerhouse
Beyond location shoots, the UAE is increasingly influential in content creation and co-production. Abu Dhabi-based Image Nation has built strategic partnerships with leading American studios including Warner Bros., Participant Media, and Hyde Park Entertainment.
Through these collaborations, Image Nation has co-produced acclaimed films and documentaries including The Help, Contagion, and the Oscar-winning documentary Free Solo. Notably, it became the first UAE company to have multiple productions streamed globally on Netflix — a milestone that signals the UAE's arrival as a serious content origination market, not just a filming backdrop.
Culturally Rooted Storytelling
The UAE's media ecosystem also embraces culturally relevant storytelling. Bidaya Media, a UAE-based company, produces Iftah Ya Simsim — the Arabic adaptation of the iconic American children's programme Sesame Street — blending a globally recognised educational format with regional culture and values.
A Production Destination Built to Last
With expanding media free zones, Hollywood-backed productions, Abu Dhabi's generous rebate programme, and globally distributed original content, the UAE continues to strengthen its status as a leading international centre for entertainment and media innovation. For studios weighing their next location, the UAE increasingly ticks every box: infrastructure, incentives, and iconic scenery.
