Tunisia’s Rise as a Netflix Filming Hub
A Growing Slate of Tunisian-Set Netflix Picks
In recent years, Netflix has expanded its presence in North Africa, with Tunisian filmmakers and international productions taking center stage:
- Streams (2021) by Mehdi Hmili has graced Netflix, offering a raw look at corruption and social injustice in Tunisian factories and working‑class neighborhoods (tunisie.co).
- The award‑winning Tunisian short Aya (2017), directed by Moufida Fedhila, is also available on Netflix, highlighting rural traditions and family dynamics (kapitalis.com).
- Behind the Mountains (2024) by Mohamed Ben Attia (known for Hedi) debuted on Netflix MENA this summer, showing Tunisia’s countryside and intimate family drama (news.broadcastmediaafrica.com).
- The documentary‑hybrid Four Daughters (2023) by Kaouther Ben Hania explores radicalization and includes Tunisian locations, collaborating across Saudi, French, and German companies (broadcastprome.com).
Why Tunisia Matters to International Filmmakers 🎥
- Diverse, Undiscovered Landscapes
Tunisia offers dramatic landscapes—from Mediterranean coastlines and desert vistas to historic medinas and modern urban settings. Such variety appeals to filmmakers like those behind Behind the Mountains. Local experts and fixer services help seamlessly integrate these areas into production (needafixer.com, broadcastprome.com). - Cost-Effective Filming Environment
Compared to Europe and North America, Tunisia delivers high-quality production at lower cost—especially for period pieces or large-scale sets. The country’s infrastructure supports logistics, equipment rentals, and trained local crews. - Friendly Incentives & Cooperation
Tunisia offers film incentives and streamlined production protocols. Local authorities are increasingly welcoming, facilitating permits and support essential for both local and foreign projects. - Authenticity for North African Stories
Filming on location enhances authenticity. Aya reflects Tunisian speech, culture, and rural life; Streams immerses viewers in real Tunisian neighborhoods; and Four Daughters gains emotional depth by shooting where the real events took shape (linstant-m.tn, newarab.com). - Gateway Between East and West
Tunisia’s geographic proximity to Europe, Arabic heritage, and multilingual talent make it an ideal bridge for crossing production boundaries. This hybrid identity attracts filmmakers seeking fresh Middle Eastern or Mediterranean narratives with international resonance.
The Broader Picture: Netflix’s Regional Strategy
Netflix aims to amplify Arab voices via its MENA hub. By pairing Tunisian directors with international partners, productions like Behind the Mountains and Four Daughters gain global visibility through co-productions and film festival exposure .
Moreover, many narrative Netflix projects, such as parts of Money Heist S3, were filmed in Tunisia, showcasing its versatility amid climate and landscape demands .
In Summary
Tunisia is swiftly becoming a go‑to location for Netflix and international film. Its scenic variety, production affordability, cultural authenticity, and supportive environment create the perfect fusion for storytellers. Whether focusing on Tunisian voices or global narratives, shooting in Tunisia enriches film projects—and positions the country as a hub of cinematic innovation.
Looking ahead, we may soon see more collaborations—possibly featuring UNESCO sites like Carthage or desert expanses doubling for other worlds. Netflix’s growing Arabic catalogue, backed by Tunisia’s filmmaking resources, promises compelling stories on the global stage.
Would you like a deeper dive into any of these films, Tunisian film incentives, or upcoming Netflix shooting locations?