On Location: Morocco

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DigitalProductionME.com takes a look at filming locations in Morocco and the services the country provides to filmmakers.

BIGGEST INCENTIVES:

As the leading location choice in the MENA region for big budget Hollywood films, Morocco’s production infrastructure is more than adequate.

Financial incentives are also in place to lure filmmakers to the North African nation.

Tax exemptions, discounted air transport and the reduction of administrative red tape are all encouraging aspects of the country’s policies on filmmaking.

General monetary savings on location fees, crew, and equipment hire are also notable.

The country’s open-armed approach to film production within its borders means governmental intervention and criticism of projects is all but non-existent. 

BIGGEST DRAWBACKS:

As with most MENA nations, the heat can present difficulties, especially for unaccustomed Western filmmakers and their crews.

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Concessions must be made by producers to avoid long daytime shoots, and provide appropriate shelter and sustenance during long summer days.

Another drawback – albeit a slight one – is that because the filmmaking industry is now so well established within Morocco, it is not as easy for filmmakers to get away with some of the more adventurous scenes they may be allowed to proceed with in other less-experienced host nations.

On the other hand, Morocco is so welcoming of filmmakers, that there isn’t a whole lot the local authorities would reject. After all, it’s probably nothing they haven’t seen before.

NATURAL FEATURES:

The Moroccan landscape provides an eclectic collection of both breathtaking terrain and diverse wildlife.

Nature reserves are widespread and include a gamut of birds, mammals and plants. These reserves were initially established to correct the pattern of extinction plaguing the country’s wildlife, and now provide fantastic zoological treats for filmmakers.

Among MENA nations, Morocco is undoubtedly one of the most attractive for producers seeking both remote desert locations and stunning flora and fauna.

Morocco’s rocky black deserts provide a stark contrast to the stereotypical golden dunes of the Sahara, which Morocco also hosts, along with many greener locales closer to its coastal edge.

With rivers, oases, coastline, mountains and a multitude of different wildlife, producers can find the right location for almost any TVC or film within Moroccan borders.

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