Why tunisia is becoming north Africa’s new film production

Tunisia is gaining international attention as a rising destination for film production. With its natural beauty, historical richness, experienced professionals, and low costs, it offers an ideal combination for both major studios and independent filmmakers.

A wide variety of landscapes in one country

Tunisia is geographically compact but incredibly diverse. In just a few hours, filmmakers can travel from:
• The Sahara Desert, with its iconic dunes and oasis towns like Tozeur and Douz
• The Mediterranean coast, featuring modern cities like Tunis and Sousse, and charming towns like Hammamet
• Mountain regions and green forests in the north, such as Ain Draham or Béja
• Ancient Roman ruins like Dougga, Carthage, and El Jem — perfect for historical or fantasy films
• Traditional villages and Islamic architecture, ideal for period settings
• Modern urban environments, offering flexibility for contemporary films and series

This geographical and cultural versatility makes filming in Tunisia especially attractive. Production crews can shoot multiple settings in one country, significantly reducing logistics and budget requirements.

A long history with international film

Tunisia has been used as a filming location since the 1970s. Some globally recognized films and series shot in Tunisia include:

• Star Wars: A New Hope (1977) and The Phantom Menace — many scenes were filmed in Matmata, Ajim (Djerba), and Chott el Jerid
• The English Patient — known for its desert cinematography
• Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark
• Black Gold, Pirates, and numerous French, German, Italian, and Arab productions
• Recent productions for Netflix, Amazon, and European TV channels

Tunisia has also developed its own cinema culture, with filmmakers like Nouri Bouzid and Mohamed Ben Attia gaining international recognition.

Lower production costs

One of Tunisia’s main advantages is its cost-effectiveness. Compared to France, Italy, or Morocco, production costs are significantly lower:

• Hiring local crew members is more affordable, with no compromise on quality
• Equipment rental, transportation, and catering cost less
• Hotels and accommodations are cheaper, even in tourist areas
• Permits and location fees are generally accessible and quick to process

For production teams with tight budgets — especially independent films, docu-series, or student projects — Tunisia is an attractive option.

A skilled and bilingual workforce

Over the years, Tunisia has developed a strong ecosystem of film professionals:

• Camera operators, lighting experts, sound engineers
• Production assistants, fixers, and translators
• Hair and makeup artists, costume designers, set decorators
• VFX and post-production technicians (mainly based in Tunis and Sfax)

Many of these professionals are bilingual in French and Arabic, and many speak English, which helps international crews work efficiently.

Local companies like Ciné Téléfilms, SVP Tunisia, or Propaganda Productions offer full-service support: pre-production, casting, location scouting, transportation, permits, and post-production.

Excellent climate for filming

Tunisia has over 300 sunny days per year, especially between April and October. The light is strong and stable — ideal for outdoor shooting without artificial lighting.

The country has dry summers and mild winters, which reduces the risk of weather delays. Coastal breezes in summer help keep sets cool, especially around Cap Bon, Hammamet, or Mahdia.

Easy access and infrastructure

Tunis, Monastir, Enfidha, and Djerba are served by international airports, with direct flights from major cities in Europe and the Middle East.

Roads are well-developed, and logistics companies are used to working with film crews. Several boutique hotels, riads, and desert camps also cater to film teams with flexible group services.

Tunisia is not just a scenic country — it is a smart, cost-efficient, and professional choice for film production. From world-class landscapes to skilled crews, from government support to year-round sunshine, Tunisia has all the elements that make a film project easier and more successful.