The big-screen sequel of Sex and the City has hit a stumbling block, after UAE authorities reportedly blocked a move to film a number of scenes in Dubai.

Plans to base a part of the plot in the emirate are now on hold, a source told US Weekly, as the show's salacious content is seen to be at odds with the UAE's more conservative culture.

"The UAE authorities aren't keen on the title because of the word 'sex'," the source said.

The news is a second blow for the production team behind the film, which has reportedly already postponed filming in New York until the end of August.

Studio bosses are hoping the sequel will match the massive success of last year's movie debut, which grossed more than $400m at the worldwide box office.