Do you need a permit to film or photograph in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Film Commission

Filming in public or private spaces needs a permit from the Saudi Film Commission (Ministry of Culture), which also helps with locations and logistics under the Film Saudi initiative.

Sources: Saudi Film Commission: FAQ · Wikipedia: Saudi Film Commission

The Saudi Film Commission's FAQ says the General Commission for Audiovisual Media (GCAM) must approve all scripts, treatments, storyboards and series synopses before production, and a GCAM permit is required to shoot in a public location. Filming at a government location needs clearance from that entity, aerial filming needs a permit from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), and international production companies need a commercial register in the Kingdom (through the Ministry of Investment) or a Saudi production partner. Permit fees and timelines are set out by GCAM, not on this page.

Sources: Saudi Film Commission: FAQ (permits)

Checked against the official source on October 6, 2026.