What Our Film Fixers Have to Say About Film Production in Djibouti
Situated on the northeast coast of the Horn of Africa, Djibouti is a unique and lesser-known film destination. Its landscapes, culture, and climate offer intriguing possibilities for filmmakers seeking an exotic and off-the-beaten-path location. Djibouti’s location on the Bab el Mandeb Strait, which separates the Red Sea from the Gulf of Aden, combined with its rich cultural heritage and distinctive landscapes, make it a fascinating location for film production. However, like any location, filming in Djibouti comes with its own set of considerations, which our local film fixers are here to help navigate.
If you are interested to film in this region, please visit our regions we fix in page for more information on Visa Applications, crew and equipment, drone permits and safety & security.
Climate and Best Filming Times in Djibouti
Djibouti is known for its harsh climate, with short, sweltering summers and long, warm winters. Throughout the year, temperatures typically vary from 74°F to 106°F, rarely dipping below 71°F or exceeding 110°F. Due to this extreme heat, the best time to film in Djibouti is from early November to mid-March, when the weather is more bearable. Filming in the summer months can be challenging due to the oppressive, dry, and windy conditions, but with proper preparation, it is still possible to work efficiently in this harsh environment.
Currency and Payments
The official currency in Djibouti is the Djibouti franc (DFr). While there are ATMs available in Djibouti City that accept Visa cards, Mastercard ATMs are harder to find. Visa credit cards are accepted at upmarket hotels and some larger businesses, but a small commission of about 5% is often levied on card payments. For ease, it is advised to carry euros or US dollars in cash, as these are widely accepted, and using a Visa ATM card will make financial transactions smoother.
Language and Cultural Considerations
Arabic and French are the official languages of Djibouti, with Somali and Afar also spoken locally. English is commonly understood in tourist areas, such as hotels, by taxi drivers, and some traders. It is important to be respectful of the local culture, especially as Islam is the predominant religion, with Sunni Muslims making up around 94% of the population. Visitors should be aware of local customs, particularly regarding respect for elders and the traditions of the Islamic faith.
Crime and Safety
While crime levels in Djibouti are relatively low, it is always essential to exercise caution, particularly in busy urban areas where pickpockets may be active. Using common sense and staying alert in public spaces will help ensure a safe filming experience.
Filming Locations in Djibouti
Djibouti may be one of the least-filmed countries in Africa, but its diverse and striking landscapes offer numerous film opportunities. The country’s rocky desert, volcanic plateaus, and arid mountain ranges create a dramatic backdrop for various genres, especially those needing harsh, unspoiled environments.
Key Film Locations Include:
- French Colonial Architecture: The whitewashed buildings and Moorish arcades, alongside bustling markets, are perfect for historical or cultural films.
- Natural Wonders: Djibouti’s landscapes include the Gulf of Tadjoura and Gulf of Aden, with their turquoise waters and scenic beaches, ideal for underwater photography and coastal settings. The Maskali Island and Moucha Island are remote and picturesque, offering a pristine environment for productions.
- Crater Lakes: Lake Assal, a crater lake in the Danakil Desert, is one of the lowest points on Earth and provides an extraordinary location for science fiction or adventure genres.
- Desert Landscapes: The Grand Bara Desert, with its vast sand flats and sparse vegetation, and the Mousa Ali volcano, Djibouti’s highest point, offer stunning desert vistas.
- National Parks: Day Forest National Park, located in the Goda Mountains, offers a surprising contrast to the arid landscapes, with heavily vegetated areas that make for lush, green film locations.
Film Permits and Visas
Filming in Djibouti requires adhering to local regulations, including restrictions on photographing government buildings, military installations, and religious sites. Our local film fixers are invaluable in obtaining the necessary film permits and ensuring compliance with these laws.
As for travel, most crew members can obtain a visa on arrival, valid for up to 30 days, but a yellow fever vaccination is required. Journalists and media personnel may need special accreditation, and our film fixers can assist with navigating this process for U.S. journalists and others working for international media outlets.
Film Equipment and Crew
Film equipment available locally is minimal, with only basic camera, grip, and lighting gear. For larger productions, it is recommended to bring in most of the equipment from abroad. Djibouti has a small pool of local film crew members, but for bigger productions, it’s best to bring in heads of departments (HODs) from outside the country. Our local fixers will assist with negotiations, local deals, and ensuring that the level of film production support matches your budget.
Talent in Djibouti
The local talent pool is primarily Arabic- and French-speaking, with the Somali and Afar ethnic groups being the largest. For more specialized or diverse talent needs, additional cast members should be brought in from abroad. Day rates and buyouts for local talent are negotiable, and our fixers are well-versed in coordinating talent contracts that fit within your production’s budget and requirements.
Conclusion
Djibouti may not be a major filming hub, but for productions looking to explore unique landscapes, cultural richness, and a remote environment, it offers a variety of possibilities. With the assistance of local film fixers, filmmakers can navigate the challenges and ensure a smooth production process in this fascinating, albeit underexplored, African destination. Stay connected for industry insights, behind-the-scenes updates, and the latest news. Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook to keep the conversation going.