Jordan’s majestic rolling dunes have filled the screen in blockbusters like Dune and The Martian, but there’s more to the country than spectacular desert. With a range of picturesque landscapes and a generous rebate, the country is attractive to US and international productions looking for a versatile and visually spectacular filming hub. 

Just outside the capital city is Olivewood Studios, the first dedicated film studio complex in Jordan. Olivewood boasts two 18,000 sq. foot(1,500m) soundstages, plus 16 acres of extensive leveled and gated backlot. It also offers a basecamp area; dedicated carpentry, costume and metalwork workshops; customizable working spaces; plus plenty of production offices and storage. There’s an on-site canteen, parking space for 95 cars and a dedicated area for technical vehicles.

“As a Jordanian actor in Hollywood, I couldn’t be prouder of Olivewood,” says Eyas Younis, actor and founder of Casting Arabia. “This state-of-the-art studio is a testament to Jordan’s potential in the film industry. From its brand-new facilities to its meticulous attention to detail, I firmly believe Olivewood will play a significant role in elevating Jordan’s film industry to the global stage it rightfully deserves.”

The studio is located 15 minutes drive from Amman, Jordan’s capital city. From Roman ruins and the ancient hilltop citadel to bustling markets and modern skyscrapers, Amman is a thriving tourist-friendly city. Flights to Amman’s international airport are available from Los Angeles and New York, and you can fly direct from London in around 5 hours. Once here, the capital offers all the amenities, accommodation and entertainment that international travelers and workers expect. 

A number of blockbuster US and international productions have taken advantage of Jordan’s various benefits. The country’s breathtaking landscapes are a key element of films including Dune and Dune: Part Two, The Hurt Locker and Prometheus, as well as Star Wars movies Rogue One and The Rise of Skywalker – not to mention the iconic finale of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. The famous Wadi Rum dunes and mountains have hosted film and TV from the classic Lawrence of Arabia up to John Wick 4, Marvel’s Moon Knight and Jordan’s Oscar-nominated film Theeb.

“I was in awe of that place, it was really, really special,” said Matt Damon, who didn’t need to go to Mars when he could film The Martian amid the country’s rolling red sands. “One of the most spectacular and beautiful places I have ever seen, and like nothing I’ve ever seen anywhere else on Earth.”

The country also boasts modern cities, picturesque ports, ancient towns with old markets teeming with shoppers, lakes, nature reserves and green valleys. As well as otherworldly fantasy realms and sci-fi planets, it’s perfect for a range of real-life backdrops in various time periods.

As well as offering evocative backdrops, skilled local crew and modern infrastructure, Jordan is also a great place to do business. International productions can take advantage of a cash rebate scheme of up to 25% on local labour and supplier expenses. All foreign and local productions are also exempt from sales taxes. Currency is extremely stable, as the Jordanian dinar is pegged to the US dollar.

“The lifestyle in Jordan has international appeal,” explains Jumana Sharbin, General Manager of Olivewood Film Studios, “with English widely spoken and expats thriving alongside the local community. The Royal Film Commission (RFC) enhances the experience for visitors by simplifying visa and permit processes and offering extensive local support.”

To make sure any production takes full advantage of the opportunities available, Olivewood can be a point of contact and guide when dealing with admin like rebates, tax exemption and location permits with local filmmaking bodies including the Royal Film Commission Jordan (RFC). 

“Olivewood Film Studios and the RFC ensure that productions and their crews have access to top-notch facilities, stunning locations, and a rich living experience,” says Jumana Sharbin. “We take pride in the fact that visitors often leave Jordan with a heavy heart, eager to return.”

Written by: Richard Trenholm: Contributing Writer for Stagerunner