Filmmaker Farah Khan, who is shooting in Dubai for "Happy New Year", Thursday said the city is not only a location, but a character in the film.

"We haven't chosen Dubai to shoot the film... it is Dubai that has chosen us. Dubai is an integral part in the film. Dubai is a character in the film and not just a city. Its a beautiful location and the culture you have here, it is not there anyone else, " Farah Khan told reporters during a press conference here.

The conference was to announce collaboration with Dubai Film and TV Commission and other Dubai government entities to simplify the entire filmmaking process.

On his part, Shah Rukh said: "Dubai is my second home... I enjoy the most here with my children. It was my dream to shoot for a film here and I am glad we are shooting here."

The shooting of "Happy New Year" which started on Sep 2nd here will perhaps continue till Sep 25.

Farah said she is thankful to Shah Rukh who agreed to do this film.

"I took a very long time to write this script. Its very sweet of Shah Rukh to do this film. I am thankful to him."

The entire starcast including Shah Rukh, Deepika Padukone, Boman Irani, Sonu Sood, and Farah were present at the press meet.

Directed by Farah, "Happy New Year" features Shah Rukh and Deepika in the lead.