“Wadi Rum is a stunning expanse and a natural paradise for filmmakers,” says renowned director Ridley Scott, who captured Jordan’s breathtaking scenery in his hit movie, The Martian. This view is shared by top Hollywood directors, including J.J. Abrams, who admired the “epic scale” that Jordan contributed to Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Jason Momoa described filming Dune as “monumental,” noting he had “never seen a desert or rocks like those.”
These endorsements from global filmmakers highlight Jordan’s rising status as the Middle East’s top filming hub, drawing over 200 film projects, including Hollywood, Arabic, and Indian films. The Royal Film Commission’s 2023 report indicates that international productions have infused over $500 million into Jordan’s economy from 2017 to 2023. The film industry also greatly benefits tourism. Data from the UNESCO Institute for Statistics and Jordan Tourism Board show a 15-20% hike in visitors to filming sites within a year of a film’s debut.
The kingdom’s varied locations, from Petra’s ancient city to Wadi Rum’s vast deserts, have been the backdrop for blockbusters like Aladdin, Transformers, and both parts of Dune, as well as renowned Arabic and Indian films. Jordan’s diverse landscapes often stand in for other countries in the region, such as Syria, Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia, and even for alien terrains like Mars.
Dr. Abdelrazzak Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, remarked: “The effect of international productions on Jordan’s tourism is astounding. Wadi Rum, for example, saw a surge in visitors post-The Martian, earning names like ‘The Valley of the Moon’ and ‘The Real Mars on Earth.’ Each major film leaves a lasting legacy that places Jordan’s unique sites on the global tourism map. Films like Dune and Star Wars have turned our deserts into must-see spots for movie lovers and adventure tourists, fostering sustainable tourism for local communities.”
Highlighting its role in promoting film production, Mohannad Al-Bakri, Managing Director of the Royal Film Commission – Jordan (RFC), stated: “Our extensive support, including up to 45% cash rebates on eligible production expenses, makes Jordan a prime location for international filmmakers. Combined with tax and customs exemptions, these incentives make Jordan not only a visually appealing location but also financially attractive.”
Filming in Jordan offers production houses numerous advantages. The kingdom’s cash rebate scheme is one of the industry’s best, with a tiered structure that rewards projects of all sizes. Productions spending $250,000 to $1 million get a 25% rebate, those investing $1-10 million receive 30%, and large-scale productions over $10 million can claim a 35% rebate, with an extra 10% for projects with cultural elements, totaling up to 45% rebate. These generous rebates, along with up to 56% in tax and customs exemptions, are processed within a leading five-month period.
The rebate program covers all content types – feature films, TV series, documentaries, commercials, and music videos – with official co-productions enjoying the same benefits through streamlined processes. Film production rebates encompass a wide range of expenses, including local crew and cast wages, travel on national carriers, equipment rentals, accommodation, catering, transport, studio rentals, set building, and up to 15% of post-production costs done in Jordan.
With over 310 sunny days yearly and the ability to travel from north to south in just five hours, Jordan offers unmatched efficiency for filming schedules. The country’s stable political climate, advanced infrastructure, and English-speaking workforce further enhance its appeal to international productions.
Productions can transition from Petra’s rose-hued ancient architecture to Wadi Rum’s Mars-like desert in under two hours. The kingdom offers everything from Amman’s contemporary cityscapes to the Dead Sea’s surreal vistas, from Jerash’s well-preserved Roman ruins to Ajloun’s medieval castles surrounded by lush forests. This variety provides filmmakers with unparalleled creative opportunities while maintaining efficient shooting schedules. Additionally, state-of-the-art facilities like Olivewood Studios augment Jordan’s natural strengths with cutting-edge technology and full production services.
Looking forward, Jordan is reinforcing its position in the global film industry through co-production treaties with multiple nations and ongoing infrastructure enhancements. With its unmatched mix of stunning locations, substantial financial incentives, and professional support services, Jordan is solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for international film production.
