Jordan’s film industry is receiving a significant boost from stronger government support, expanded tax incentives, and new studio investment, positioning the country as an increasingly attractive destination for international and regional productions. The Royal Film Commission has overseen an upgraded rebate scheme that now returns up to 45% of local spend to filmmakers, alongside automatic exemptions from the country’s 16% value added tax and 10% withholding tax. In total, eligible productions can save as much as 56% of qualifying expenditure. The program also lowered the minimum spend requirement to $250,000, while the rebate remains capped at $5.25 million per project, although higher limits may be considered in special cases. Officials say the streamlined system, combined with faster permit processing and reduced bureaucracy, is helping Jordan compete more effectively for foreign shoots.
Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, chairman of the Royal Film Commission, has described the sector as an important part of Jordan’s cultural strategy, highlighting the role of the royal family and King Abdullah II in supporting its growth. Alongside these incentives, Jordan’s natural landscapes continue to make it a sought-after filming location, adding to the appeal for producers looking for varied desert, historical, and urban settings.
A key development has been the rise of Olivewood Film Studios in Amman, the country’s first purpose-built studio complex of its kind. Established in 2023, Olivewood includes two soundstages and a backlot, giving Jordan more professional production infrastructure than it previously had. Last year, the studio entered into a partnership with U.S. studio operator Shadowbox Studios, which is now helping manage Olivewood’s operations. Shadowbox, which also operates facilities in Atlanta and the United Kingdom, is expected to bring international expertise that can support larger-scale productions in Jordan.
According to Olivewood general manager Jumana Sharbin, the studio was created to support Jordan’s growing film and television industry and strengthen its standing as both a regional and international production destination. She said the studio is expanding its outreach beyond Europe and the United States, with a growing focus on Asia and India as important markets. Olivewood has already taken part in industry events in Busan and is preparing for further engagement in China through major film and television marketplaces in Shanghai.
Over the past year, Olivewood has hosted several notable productions, including MBC’s “The Voice” and “The Voice Kids,” demonstrating its ability to handle large entertainment formats with demanding technical and operational needs. The studio has also welcomed domestic productions, including “Grant Me a Son,” from filmmakers Rana and Ahmad Al-Yaseer. With improved incentives, easier access, and expanding studio capacity, Jordan is emerging as a stronger contender for international film and television projects.
