Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦

Saudi Arabia offers a competitive film incentive program to attract both local and international productions. Below is a detailed breakdown of the incentives:

1. Saudi Arabia Filming Incentives - Cash Rebate Program

Cash Rebate:

Saudi Arabia provides a cash rebate of up to 40% on qualifying production expenditures incurred within the country.

2. Film Incentives Breakdown

Base Rebate:

• Up to 40% cash rebate on production spend.

Additional Support:

• Assistance in obtaining licenses and approvals.
• Access to a variety of unique shooting locations.
• A database of professional service providers.

3. Filming Incentives Terms and Conditions

Eligibility Criteria:

• The applicant must be:
  • A production company registered and licensed in Saudi Arabia, or
  • In a co-production agreement with a Saudi production company.
• Obtain a shooting permit in Saudi Arabia.
• Complete the incentive program application process and approvals.
• Meet the minimum qualifying expenditure:
  • Fiction feature films: $200,000 per project.
  • Documentaries: $50,000 per project.
  • Animation: $50,000 per project.
• A minimum of 5 production days in Saudi Arabia is required.
• Proof of secured budget/financing for the project.

Exclusions:

• Government and semi-government companies are not eligible to apply for the program.

4. Governing Body for the Incentive

Saudi Film Commission:

• The incentive program is administered by the Saudi Film Commission, operating under the Ministry of Culture.

5. Filming Incentive Application Process

1. Registration:

• Ensure that your production company is registered and licensed in Saudi Arabia or establish a co-production agreement with a Saudi-registered company.

2. Obtain Shooting Permit:

• Apply for and secure a shooting permit from the relevant Saudi authorities.

3. Application Submission:

• Complete the incentive program application process, providing all necessary documentation, including proof of secured budget and detailed production plans.

4. Approval Process:

• The Saudi Film Commission will review the application to ensure all criteria are met.

5. Production:

• Upon approval, proceed with production in Saudi Arabia, adhering to the agreed-upon terms and conditions.

6. Rebate Claim:

• After production, submit the required documentation, including expenditure reports and proof of compliance with the program’s requirements, to claim the rebate.

For detailed guidelines and application forms, refer to the official Saudi Film Commission website or contact them directly for assistance.