Filming in Egypt gives productions access to some of the most recognisable locations on earth — the Pyramids of Giza, the Nile River, ancient temples in Luxor and Aswan, vibrant Cairo streets and vast desert landscapes — all supported by experienced local crews and a streamlined permit process. This guide explains the permits, costs, locations, crew and fixer services you need to plan a successful shoot in Egypt.
Can you film in Egypt as a foreign production?
Yes. Foreign productions can film in Egypt with the correct permits and government approvals. All commercial filming — including commercials, documentaries, feature films, television series, fashion shoots and digital content — requires official authorisation. Working with an experienced local fixer is the fastest and most reliable way to secure permits, coordinate approvals and keep a shoot on schedule.
Quick facts: filming in Egypt
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Capital | Cairo |
| Currency | Egyptian Pound (EGP) |
| Main production hub | Cairo |
| Best shooting season | October to April |
| Permits required | Yes |
| Local crew available | Yes |
| Equipment rental available | Yes |
| Drone filming | Restricted — requires prior approval |
Do you need a filming permit in Egypt?
Yes — a filming permit is required for all commercial productions in Egypt. Permits are issued through the relevant authorities, and the type of approval depends on your locations, crew size and equipment. Heritage sites such as the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor and Aswan have their own access rules, and drone filming requires separate clearance. For official destination information and travel guidance, see the Egyptian Tourism Authority. A local fixer handles the paperwork, liaises with authorities and prevents costly delays on the ground.
How much does filming in Egypt cost?
Filming costs in Egypt depend on crew size, equipment, locations and shoot duration. Small productions can start at roughly USD 3,000–5,000 per day. The table below shows typical daily rates for crew, equipment and logistics.
| Item | Typical daily rate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Fixer | 350–700 |
| Producer | 500–1,000 |
| Director of Photography (DOP) | 500–1,200 |
| Sound Recordist | 350–700 |
| Production van | 150–350 |
| Camera package | 500–2,500+ |
| Lighting package | 500–3,500+ |
| Hotels | 80–300+ per night |
For an accurate budget, request a tailored quote based on your script, shoot days and location list.
Best filming locations in Egypt
Egypt offers exceptional production value across a compact and varied range of locations:
- Pyramids of Giza & the Sphinx — iconic ancient-world backdrops just outside Cairo.
- Cairo — bustling streets, historic mosques, markets and modern cityscapes.
- Luxor — the Karnak and Luxor temples and the Valley of the Kings.
- Aswan — the Nile, Abu Simbel and dramatic riverside scenery.
- Red Sea Coast — coral reefs, diving and resort coastlines.
- White Desert — surreal chalk-rock formations and open desert vistas.
Can you hire local crew and equipment in Egypt?
Yes. Egypt has a deep pool of experienced producers, fixers, camera crews, sound technicians, lighting teams and production support staff. Camera, lighting and grip packages are available for rental, and local crew can be combined with travelling key creatives to control costs while maintaining international standards.
Why use a fixer in Egypt?
A local fixer is the single most valuable resource for a foreign production. A fixer in Egypt can assist with permits and government approvals, location scouting and access, crew sourcing, equipment rental, customs and carnet guidance, translation services, and accommodation and transport. This local knowledge saves time, reduces risk and keeps productions compliant with regulations.
Why work with African Fixer?
African Fixer provides trusted production support across Africa through an extensive network of local fixers, producers and production partners. From permits and crewing to logistics and on-the-ground coordination, African Fixer helps international productions shoot safely, efficiently and on budget — in Egypt and across the continent. Explore our production services or learn more about our film fixers across Africa.
Frequently asked questions about filming in Egypt
Is Egypt good for filming?
Yes. Egypt offers world-famous locations, experienced crews, equipment rental and strong production value, making it one of the leading filming destinations in Africa and the Middle East.
Can foreigners film in Egypt?
Yes, foreigners can film in Egypt with the required permits and approvals, which are best arranged through a local fixer.
Can I fly a drone in Egypt?
Drone filming in Egypt is restricted and only permitted with prior official approval.
What is the best time to film in Egypt?
The best time to film in Egypt is October to April, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for crews and talent.
How much does filming in Egypt cost?
Small shoots in Egypt can start at around USD 3,000–5,000 per day, with the final budget depending on crew, equipment, locations and shoot duration.
Plan your shoot in Egypt
Ready to start production? Contact African Fixer for permits, crew, equipment and full production support for filming in Egypt.
