Drone Permits
Licensed with GCAA, DCAA, DFTC, and MOD, we handle drone permits and flight approvals across the UAE, ensuring full compliance with local regulations and efficient permit processing.
Approvals planned around the actual flight.
Commercial drone filming in the UAE is planned around a specific location, date, aircraft and flight profile. Open Gate Films coordinates the paperwork and production information required for an aerial shoot, then works with the relevant authorities, location owners and on-site stakeholders as the approval route requires.
What is assessed before an application
We start with the exact map pin, dates, flight height, intended shot, aircraft, crew and whether people, vehicles or restricted infrastructure sit near the flight path. This early assessment identifies the likely approvals, safety controls, access documents and location permissions before a crew is booked.
Coordinating the approval route
Depending on the emirate, location and operating profile, this can involve filming permissions, UAS/airspace approvals, Ministry of Defence coordination, ATC or DANS coordination, NOTAMs, landowner NOCs and venue requirements. The route is never assumed: each location is reviewed against the brief and current authority requirements.
Built into production planning
Permits work best when they are part of pre-production, alongside the recce, shot list, insurance, risk assessment, crew plan and weather contingency. That keeps the creative plan realistic and helps avoid a location or airspace issue appearing on the shoot day.
What to send with your enquiry
Send the location pin, preferred dates and times, the shots you need, expected aircraft type, whether people will be near the flight, and any venue or client contacts. We can then advise on the likely route, dependencies and a production schedule that leaves room for approvals.
Frequently asked questions
Do you handle permits for drone filming in Dubai and the UAE?
Yes. Open Gate Films coordinates the permit and flight-approval process required for the agreed production brief, including location documentation and authority coordination where applicable.
How far ahead should drone permits be planned?
Start as early as possible. The lead time depends on the location, airspace, schedule, aircraft and any restricted-area, venue or landowner requirements. We confirm the practical route after reviewing the brief.
Does one permit cover every drone shoot?
No. Filming permission, airspace approval and location access can be separate requirements. The approvals needed are assessed against the specific flight and location.
