Abu Dhabi (UAE) Production Incentive Scheme for Film Productions
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a rebate in the form of the Abu Dhabi Production Incentive Scheme, offering a 30% rebate on qualifying production and post-production expenditure. The incentive program has certain limitations, including per-project caps: $5 million for film, $1 million for television, and only $500,000 for commercials. Post-production rebates are much smaller, with a cap of $250,000 for film and $150,000 for television and commercials.
Another important consideration is the application process. The UAE requires applications to be received at least 20 business days before production, and in the event of script approval being necessary, up to 40 business days. Qualifying productions must have minimum spend requirements—$200,000 for film, $50,000 for television, and $25,000 for commercials.
For directors looking for a simple, cheap solution, Thailand’s tax rebate is a better bargain.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand’s Film Incentive Measures offer a highly competitive and flexible tax rebate program, which is suited to productions of any scale. The baseline rebate is 15% on spending over 50 million Thai Baht (approximately $1.4 million), with an increasing 20% on spend of between $2.8–$4.3 million, and a highly enticing 25% on productions spending over $4.3 million in Thailand.
Thailand also offers additional incentives, so productions can save even more:
- 5% Bonus for hiring Thai nationals in key team positions
- 5% Bonus for productions that promote tourism or a positive image of Thailand
- 3% Bonus for shooting in Department of Tourism Designated Provinces
- 3% Bonus for productions that conduct both filming and post-production in Thailand
Unlike the UAE, Thailand imposes no per-project cap, ensuring productions can receive the highest rebate possible without limitations. Film permits are processed within just 10 days, making Thailand a faster, more efficient choice for international productions.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. United Arab Emirates Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | United Arab Emirates |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rebate | 30%+ | 30% |
| Additional Bonuses | Up to 16% | None |
| Per-Project Cap | None | $5M (Film), $1M (TV), $500K (Commercials) |
| Application Deadline | Flexible, no restrictions | 20-40 Business Days Before Production |
| Film Permit Process | Fast (10 days), one permit for multiple locations | Lengthy Approval Process |
Choose Thailand for your next project and enjoy a hassle-free experience with maximum rebates, talented crews, and comprehensive support. For more details on filming in Thailand, download our FREE TAX & LOCATIONS GUIDE today!
Thailand Filming Locations
Pine Forest
Pine forests in the northern region of Thailand blanket the mountains and hills, setting up a perfect backdrop and ambiance for any film production.
Western Houses
Unknown to many, western houses are located outside of Bangkok, ideal for filming. These houses are beautifully built, structurally sound, and mimic homes built in the West.
Studios
Bangkok is home to a multitude of studios, equipped with the latest equipment, sound systems, lights, and everything a production team needs. Filmmakers can easily find and rent a studio in Bangkok without traveling far to find one.
City
Bangkok’s bustling metropolis with neon-dotted cityscape sets the tone for any film production in the heart of the city. Meandering through the heart is the famed Chao Phraya River, perfect for capturing heartfelt and romantic scenes along the river boasting a rich backdrop showcasing Thailand’s icon temples and pagodas.
Islands
With over a thousand islands dotting Thailand’s rolling coastline and the Andaman Sea, each island has charm, mystery, and beauty. Towering, jagged cliffs remain untouched by human hands and serve as a home to the wild animals hiding within the rock crevasses or underwater schisms.
Beaches
Thailand’s sun-kissed beaches are second to none. Layered with soft, white, silky sand, crystal clear waters, and lush terrain, Thailand’s southern beaches serve as the ideal filming location for dramas, romantic comedies, and action and adventure films.
Mountains
North Thailand is home to impressive, lush mountain ranges. During winter months, Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep are cloaked in a sea of fog and the grass is blanketed by dewdrops every morning.
Set Buildings
Crew & Gear
Thailand has a highly experienced, internationally trained film crew. After years of servicing blockbuster productions, high-end TV shows, and large commercials, Thailand’s crews are among the best in the industry. And they’re English-speaking, making communication easy for international productions.
Thailand provides an extremely broad and high-quality selection of equipment, reducing the need for costly international shipping. As the top production hub in Southeast Asia, Thailand ensures that producers have the finest resources for a smooth shoot.
How Mbrella Films Can Help
With more than a decade of experience in Thailand’s film industry, Mbrella Films offers full production services, including:
- Location Scouting & Logistics: Mbrella Films helps secure the perfect setting with location scouting, permits, and transportation.
- Crew & Equipment Hire: Mbrella Films has a network of highly skilled local crew members and access to top-tier equipment to ensure your production runs smoothly.
- English-Speaking Producers: Our experienced team guides you through every step of the production process to eliminate language barriers and streamline operations.
Ready to make the most of your next production? Let us connect you to a local producer who can help you prequalify for Thailand’s rebate program.
