Egypt
The Mediterranean coast is mild and wet, while the Sahara in the south is hot and dry. Egypt has two main seasons, a mild winter from November to April and a hot summer from May to October. The shoulder periods from February to April and September to November are the best months to film for costs and weather.
Cost & Rebates
Egypt has one of the least expensive shoot day costs in the Middle East. At present there are no tax incentives for foreign commercials or feature films shooting in Egypt.
When To Shoot
The Mediterranean coast is mild and wet, while the Sahara in the south is hot and dry. Egypt has two main seasons, a mild winter from November to April and a hot summer from May to October. The shoulder periods from February to April and September to November are the best months to film for costs and weather.
Visa Information
Nationals from most western countries can get a visa on arrival which is valid for stays of up to 30 days. There is no special work permit required to film in Egypt. US passport holders who plan to get a visa before arrival.
Cast, Crew & Equipment
Egypt has a small pool of local directors, directors of photography and stills photographers. Key crew is available in Cairo and Alexandria. Working in Egypt can be a slow process so allow plenty of time to get all the shots you need. Talent day rates and buyouts are negotiable. Talent costs are some of the lowest in the Middle East. In terms of local looks, nearly all citizens are ethnic Egyptians. Very small minorities of Bedouins, Berbers and Nubians also exist. All other talent needs to be cast abroad. All the standard camera, grip and lighting equipment is available locally including Motion Control and Technocrane. More specialized equipment can be easily brought in from nearby European production centres or Dubai. Egypt is not an ATA carnet member country. You will need to have a permit to bring film equipment into Egypt so allow at least a month for processing this permit. To save you on costs they guarantee this with a local bank instead of working through a customs broker. For small projects it’s best to bring in gear as handheld luggage.