The breathtaking landscapes of Jordan have drawn numerous international projects over the years. In a significant milestone in the country’s film industry, King Abdullah II recently inaugurated Olivewood Film Studios, the first dedicated film studio complex located just outside the capital city of Amman. The studios opened their doors officially in an event coinciding with the 20th anniversary of The Royal Film Commission – Jordan (RFC). King Abdullah II, Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein, Princess Rym al-Ali, of the country’s royal family, and other dignitaries graced the occasion and the opening of this spectacular studio complex which is a significant addition to the film industry in the Kingdom.
These studios – spreading over an area of 47 km – combine modern technology with state-of-the-art facilities to meet the needs of the film and television industry. The complex includes two main studios, each of which is 1,500 square meters in size, in addition to a specialized workshop for craft works related to film decorations, such as carpentry, blacksmithing, and painting. Administrative offices equipped with all modern technologies are available, together with facilities and support offices, to ensure smooth workflow.
Amid the visit, King Abdullah II conducted a comprehensive tour of the studio complex and the filming locations of the Jordanian series. Expressing his unwavering support for local filmmakers and Jordan’s thriving film industry, His Majesty the King engaged in a conversation with a group of Jordanian filmmakers during a stop at the filming location of a television series.
Officials from the Commission highlighted a number of factors that have made Jordan a top choice for film and television production around the world during the event. They noted the Commission’s collaboration with six foreign partners to produce 31 Jordanian films over the previous 20 years. Additionally, the Commission was crucial in making it possible for 112 foreign movies and 29 international television shows to be filmed in the Kingdom.
The event revealed a huge investment of $519 million in the creative industries sector, illuminating its enormous economic impact. About 134,000 Jordanians now have work options thanks to the Commission’s efforts. Additionally, 5,695 hopeful trainees—both men and women—participated in the educational initiatives the Commission started. A support fund was also established, which led to the creation of 150 full-length and short films, promoting the expansion and development of the sector.
The Studios will operate as an independent company with administrative and financial autonomy, led by Raja Gargour, who is also acting commissioner of Jordan’s Royal Film Commission (RFC). With state-of-the-art technology and facilities available at the film complex, production companies will have the convenience of implementing their projects easily and efficiently in Jordan. It is expected that Jordan’s Olivewood Film Studios will be utilized for producing cinematic films and television series, film advertisements, and commercial videos, as well as hosting filming parties and special events. This will contribute to expanding the scope of cinematic business in Jordan and creating more job opportunities in this sector.
More than 100 Feature films have been produced in Jordan over the past 20 years thanks to The Royal Film Commission (RFC), including well-known Hollywood blockbusters like Dune 2, The Martian, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, The Hurt Locker, John Wick: Chapter 4, and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. These fruitful international partnerships have enhanced Jordan’s standing as a desirable location for filmmakers.
The film industry plays a significant role in Jordan’s culture, economy, and tourism. The country has a wealth of stunning natural and historical sites that can serve as backdrops for cinematography, making it an ideal destination for the film and television industry. Olivewood Film Studios will leverage these advantages and promote the country as a prime destination for the global film industry.
