A Guide to Applying for Photography Permits in the UAE

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the rest of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are known for their stunning landscapes, architecture, and vibrant cultures.

For photographers, it’s a dream come true to capture these beautiful moments and freeze them in time through their lenses. However, obtaining a photography permit in the UAE is essential to avoid any legal troubles.

Overview of Photography Permits in the UAE:

The UAE government regulates photography permits to maintain the privacy and safety of individuals and property. Photography without a permit is illegal in the UAE, and if caught, the photographer could face fines, jail time, and deportation.

A photography permit grants permission to capture images for commercial or recreational purposes, depending on the type of permit.

Types of Photography Permits:

There are two types of photography permits in the UAE:

1. Commercial Photography Permits: This type of permit is necessary for professional photographers who capture images for commercial purposes, such as advertising, films, TV shows, and magazines.‍

2. Recreational Photography Permits: This type of permit is required for personal or non-commercial photography, including wedding photoshoots, vacation photos, and other private photography sessions.

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Requirements for Obtaining a Photography Permit:

To obtain a photography permit in the UAE, you must submit specific documents and pay a fee. The documents you need to submit can include:

• Passport copy
• Visa copy (for non-residents)
• Emirates ID copy (for residents)
• Trade license copy (for commercial permits)
• No-objection letter from the property owner (for shooting on private property)
• No-objection letter from the government entity (for shooting in public places)
• Detailed shoot plan

Next comes the fees. The cost of a photography permit in Dubai varies depending on the type of permit and the location of the shoot.

How to Apply for a Photography Permit through UAEFilmPermit?

UAEFilmPermit is here to get all your film permit needs covered. We simplify the process of obtaining a shooting permit in the UAE.

Here are the steps to apply for a photography permit through us:

1. Submit your application on our website.
2. Fill in the details of your photography project, including the shoot location, date, and type of permit required.
3. Upload the necessary documents.
4. Pay the permit fee.
5. Wait for the permit approval, which can take up to three working days.
6. Once approved, print the permit and carry it with you during the shoot.

Source : uaefilmpermit.com/blog/a-guide-to-applying-for-photography-permits-in-the-uae