The Royal Film Commission – Jordan (RFC) was established with a clear vision: to develop a competitive Jordanian film industry on an international scale. Founded under the Royal Film Commission Act No. 27 of 2003 and approved by Law No. 22 issued by Parliament in 2008, the RFC operates autonomously in financial and administrative terms. It is led by a board of commissioners chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein.
The mission of the RFC is multifaceted, from encouraging Jordanians and Middle Eastern individuals to tell their stories, to creating educational programmes for those working or aspiring to work in the film industry, to positioning Jordan as a leading location for international audiovisual productions. This mission is reflected not only in its educational initiatives but also in its commitment to promoting film culture throughout the country.
For those looking to learn more about what Jordan has to offer, during the next edition of Shooting Locations Marketplace, on the 17th and 18th of October, the RFC’s proposal will be presented in depth. Those interested in the film world will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the details of how Jordan can be the key to their next project.
Where to film in Jordan?
In terms of locations, Jordan is a treasure waiting to be discovered. From the capital, Amman, with its panoramic views and architecture blending the old and the modern, to iconic sites like Petra, a city carved into rock that has been the setting for many renowned productions. But Jordan is not just about deserts and ancient ruins; it has green areas like the Ajloun Forest Reserve, offering mountain and forest landscapes that break the sandy Middle Eastern stereotype.
The Dead Sea, with its unique salinity features and otherworldly landscapes, is another draw for filmmakers. Likewise, the Wadi Araba area, combining vast deserts with spectacular rock formations, provides ideal settings for adventure and epic productions. No less significant are urban locations: from the vibrant centre of Amman to quieter towns like Madaba, every corner of Jordan has something to offer.
Beyond natural landscapes, the RFC provides locations such as airports, desert roads, and quarantined urban areas, further expanding narrative possibilities for filmmakers. These settings, combined with other iconic sites like Qusayr Amra and the French Fort, allow directors to dive into a world of history and culture while leveraging the technical and logistical advantages offered by the RFC.
Incentives for audiovisual production
Not only the stunning locations make Jordan an attractive destination for productions. The RFC streamlines the production process by offering comprehensive services such as obtaining filming permits, location scouting, and assistance with customs procedures. Furthermore, financial incentives have been implemented, such as tax breaks and discounts, to attract more international productions to the kingdom.
Through governmental decisions, the RFC has the right to exempt eligible productions from certain taxes and fees. These exemptions range from sales tax on products and services acquired in the kingdom for production to tax and customs duty exemptions for equipment imported for production purposes.