Frequently Asked Questions

About the Kingdom

How do I find information about Saudi?

The www.visitsaudi.com website provides sufficient information about the country with details for everything you need to know about visiting Saudi Arabia.

What is the weather like in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is a large country with a land area of about 2,150,000 km2, with different geographical nature. The weather in varies in different regions throughout the year. For more information: visit the link here

Do I need a visa to visit Saudi?

Saudi welcomes all visitors, based on your nationality, you can determine if a visa is required and how to issue it by visit the link here

Other than work, what can I do in Saudi?

You can explore a lot of activities and new experiences with the different areas of the kingdom, please visit the link here to know more.

About the Program

What is the Film Saudi and why was it established?

The incentive program is one of the strategic initiatives of the Film Commission to develop the film industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The program aims to make the Kingdom a global destination for film production.

What type of productions may qualify for the incentive program?

- Feature Films
- Animated Films
- Documentary Films

How do I apply for an incentive?

You can apply for an incentive by visiting our Incentive Program Page here

Do only Saudi-based production companies qualify?

You do not have to be a Saudi-based production company to be eligible.

What is the process for international production companies to film in Saudi Arabia?

Production companies are required to obtain a commercial register in the Kingdom so that they can conduct their business and obtain the necessary licenses from the Ministry of Investment. It is possible to find out about the necessary procedures through: The Ministry of Investment Or collaborate with a Saudi production companies to facilitate the process. .

Is it necessary to apply for incentives pre-production and postproduction?

Incentives are submitted pre-production preparations begin for the stages (pre- production and production) - or as a rule: prior approvals are required.

Do the incentives apply to film sponsors or are they exclusive only to producers? Can the financier apply for incentives?

Everyone can agree among themselves on a clear and consistent mechanism for submission. A project submitted by two parties cannot be accepted and is expected to be excluded from the external selection committee.

When are incentives paid or the product is due for them?

The eligible incentives are usually paid for the terms after obtaining approval from the Film Commission on all final audit results for all agreed project accounts.

Permits

Do I require script clearance for my production?

Yes, all scripts, treatments, storyboards, and series synopsis to be approved by General Commission for Audiovisual Media(GCAM) – in prior to the production of films and documentaries through: this link

Are there permit fees?

Yes, you can furthre discover permit fees through GCAM investor's guide on this link

What is the timeline for approving a film permit?

It varies based on the permit, check GCAM website for more information.

What permits do I need to film public locations?

A premit from GCAM is required for shooting in a public location

What permits do I need to film government locations?

A clearance from the entity you wish to film at is required.

Do I need permits from the surrounding landlords?

Only a permit from the primary entity is required, surrounding landlords do not need permits

Do I need permits for aerial filming?

Yes, a premit is issued from GACA, for more information please vistit the link here

Visa Applications

Do I, or any of my cast and crew, require visas to work in Saudi?

Yes, all international (non-saudi) require a working visa to film in Saudi

How do I apply for a visa?

You need to apply through link here

Are there any charges for visa application?

Yes, depending on the visa type.

Will the charges be included in the incentive?

No. it is not included

Customs

If I wish to bring film or filming equipment into Saudi, what are the procedures?

The necessary procedures vary according to the equipment to be entered, and it is possible for the customs broker to look at the procedures for entering the equipment through the customs link

Others

How can I hire Saudi actors to participate in the film?

You can check the casting agencies in the Service Providers page here

Can someone help me to know the laws in Saudi Arabia?

For more about the laws in Saudi visit

Can anyone help me understand what is acceptable and what's not in terms of Saudi culture and values?

For more information about the etiquette in Saudi, check the link here