The Emirates are famous for their unique, cutting edge modern architecture. Dubai is the main business centre and film production hub. Abu Dhabi is the capital and main cultural centre. The Emirates also offer beautiful natural looks including white sand beaches, desert sand dunes, wadis and rocky mountains. The Emirates are one of the more expensive countries in the Middle East. Hotels during peak season can get very expensive. Standard shoot day costs are comparable with South Africa. The Emirates has a good pool of local and expat directors, directors of photography and stills photographers. Many experienced foreign crew have relocated to Dubai so there is a good depth of impressive locally based crews. Both key and supporting crews speak fluent English and work to an international standard. Crews are non-union.