Do I need a permit to film?

Yes. Authorization through the Royal Film Commission is required, with additional approvals for heritage and protected areas.

Are incentives available?

Competitive rebate programs are available for qualifying international productions.

Drone use requires aviation authority approval and may face additional restrictions in protected zones.

Is desert filming logistically complex?

It requires structured planning, experienced local coordination, and environmental compliance oversight.

Can international crews operate locally?

International teams typically collaborate with registered local partners to ensure regulatory compliance.

Jordan

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Jordan, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Jordan

Capital

Amman

Main Cities

Zarqa, Irbid, Aqaba

Local Languages

Arabic (official), English widely spoken

Currency

Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

Climate

Predominantly arid desert

General Visa Requirements:

Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Jordan. Film crews often require specific permits to work in the country. Requirements include:

Required Documents:

A letter from the production company
A detailed filming itinerary
Coordination with the Royal Film Commission of Jordan (RFC)

Visa Application Process:

You can start your Visa Application https://mota.gov.jo/En/Pages/Visa_information

Processing Time:

1 - 2 Working days, to process a visa. It may take longer depending on the nationality of the applicant.

Cost:

E visas cost less than $100

Accreditation Requirements:

To film in Jordan, you need a filming permit for both commercial and non - commercial purposes. The fixer will get InTouch with the relative authorities, including the Ministry of Communication, Tourism, or Culture, in Jordan to confirm what licenses and authorisations are needed for your filmmaking project.

Required Documents:

Biographical information of each crew member (VC/Resume)
Crew passports
Filming permits
Shooting locations
Filming dates / duration

Processing Time:

Procedures for film permits have a duration between 5 to 30 days.

Cost:

$100 to $300 per Crew member

Issuing Organization:

The Royal Film Commission

Required Documents:

Locations of shoot.
Number of crew, with full Identification document of each crew member.
Airport permit which will be provided by fixer.

Processing Time:

7 days

Cost:

$300 (Cost of a unit manager to arrange permits)

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private location: - Negotiations between the fixer and the private owner, on presentation of the script.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Fees: - Are negotiated between the fixer and the private owner, within budget cost (from production company)

Drone Regulations:

Shoot schedule
Accurate shooting locations

Drone Importation Regulations:

Shoot schedule
Accurate shooting location
Approved Film Permit
Drone specifications & serial numbers
Pilot’s passport
Pilot’s biodata (CV/Resume)

Permit Issuance:

Royal Film Commission
Media Commission
Ministry of Interior
Royal Jordanian Air Force

Timing:

All documents and applications must be submitted 30 days prior to arrival.

Cost:

Security Deposit: 1000 JD per drone (paid at the airport).
Storage Fee: 50 JD per day while drones are held at the military facility.
Escort Fee: 280 USD per day for a military representative to escort the drone.
Operational Fee: 150 JD per day for each shooting day.
Note: Rates may change.

Carnet Status:

Jordan is not a Carnet country.

This means you cannot use an ATA Carnet for temporary import/export of filming equipment.

Certain equipment is not allowed (restrictions apply).
A full gearlist must be submitted for clearance.

Required Documents:

List of equipment (comprehensive gearlist).
Serial numbers of all items.
Costs/value of equipment (for customs reference).
Proof of ownership (e.g., invoices or company letterhead declaration).
Arrival date of the shipment.
Expected weight of equipment.

Issuing Organization:

Customs Department
General Intelligence Directorate (GID)
Public Security Directorate (PSD)

Timing:

Clearance should take no more than 7 working days, provided all paperwork is in order.

Cost:

No fixed cost specified (N/A).

General Overview:

Popularity: Jordan is one of the most sought-after filming and travel destinations in the Middle East.
Safety Reputation: Known as one of the safest countries in the region, Jordan attracts many international productions.