Jordan’s film industry generates $500M boost, fuels tourism growth
Kingdom cements global reputation as premier filming destination with incentives and iconic landscapes
AMMAN, Jordan (MNTV) — Jordan has emerged as a top global destination for film production, with more than 200 international films shot across its landscapes in recent years, generating over $500 million for the economy and driving a 20 percent rise in tourist arrivals, according to the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB).
Blockbusters such as Star Wars, Dune, The Martian, Aladdin, and Transformers have featured Jordan’s iconic sites including Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea.
Global filmmakers have hailed the country’s natural scenery, with Ridley Scott describing Wadi Rum as “a natural wonderland for filmmakers,” while Jason Momoa called filming Dune in Jordan “monumental.”
JTB Managing Director Abdelrazzak Arabiyat said each production leaves a lasting impact on tourism, particularly in Wadi Rum, now recognized worldwide as both “The Valley of the Moon” and “The Real Mars on Earth.”
He stressed that film tourism has created sustainable opportunities for local communities while elevating Jordan’s international profile.
Jordan’s competitive film incentive program, managed by the Royal Film Commission (RFC), offers rebates of up to 45 percent on eligible expenses, delivered within five months.
Productions spending between $250,000 and $1 million receive 25 percent back, increasing to 30 percent for budgets up to $10 million, and 35 percent for larger projects. A further 10 percent rebate is granted to productions incorporating cultural themes.
“These financial incentives, alongside customs and tax exemptions of up to 56 percent, make Jordan not only visually appealing but also commercially competitive,” said Mohannad Bakri, RFC Managing Director.
He added that the streamlined system supports feature films, television series, documentaries, commercials, and music videos.
Beyond financial advantages, Jordan offers over 310 days of sunshine annually, modern infrastructure, English-speaking crews, and political stability.
Filmmakers can easily move between vastly different landscapes, from Petra’s ancient ruins to Wadi Rum’s desert terrain, within a short distance.
With investments in production facilities such as Olivewood Studios and co-production agreements with international partners, Jordan is reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading destinations where cinema and economic growth converge.
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