Saudi Arabia Incentive Program for Film Productions
Saudi Arabia has an incentive program for filmmakers, offering up to a 40% tax rebate for qualifying productions.
Although a tax rebate is available, they come with tough and unclear criterias. The program requires a minimum expenditure of $200,000 for fiction feature films and $50,000 for documentaries and animation. However, it fails to provide any definite guidelines on the limit per project or annual budget caps, which makes it hard for production companies to plan. Coordinating with the local film industry, getting permits, and organizing smooth logistics could be more time-consuming and labor-intensive.
Although Saudi Arabia does offer a film incentive program, Thailand is more relaxed and friendly with more flexibility, transparency, and significant financial incentives.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand has long been a leader in the Southeast Asian film industry, offering generous and easy film tax rebates.
- 15% rebate for Thailand-qualified spending from 50 million Thai Baht (approx. $1.4M)
- 20% rebate for spending between 100–150 million Thai Baht (approx. $2.8–4.3M)
- 25% rebate for spending over 160 million Thai Baht (approx. $4.3M)
- Additional rebates of up to 16% for employing Thai nationals, promoting tourism, shooting in designated provinces, or completing post-production in Thailand
- No per-project cap, allowing for larger productions to benefit from significant rebates
Thailand also simplifies the production process with a fast and efficient permitting system—permits are issued within 10 days, with one application covering multiple locations. With no cultural test and unlimited location access, Thailand offers easy and smooth filming.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Saudi Arabia Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rebate | 30%+ | Up to 40% |
| Additional Bonuses | Up to 16% | None |
| Annual Budget Cap | None | Lacks Clarity |
| Application Deadline | Flexible, no restrictions | Lacks Clarity |
| Film Permit Process | Fast (10 days), one permit for multiple locations | Complex and time-consuming |
Choose Thailand for your next project and enjoy a hassle-free experience with maximum rebates, talented crews, and comprehensive support. For more details on filming in Thailand, download our FREE TAX & LOCATIONS GUIDE today!
Thailand Filming Locations
Pine Forest
Pine forests in the northern region of Thailand blanket the mountains and hills, setting up a perfect backdrop and ambiance for any film production.
Western Houses
Unknown to many, western houses are located outside of Bangkok, ideal for filming. These houses are beautifully built, structurally sound, and mimic homes built in the West.
Studios
Bangkok is home to a multitude of studios, equipped with the latest equipment, sound systems, lights, and everything a production team needs. Filmmakers can easily find and rent a studio in Bangkok without traveling far to find one.
City
Bangkok’s bustling metropolis with neon-dotted cityscape sets the tone for any film production in the heart of the city. Meandering through the heart is the famed Chao Phraya River, perfect for capturing heartfelt and romantic scenes along the river boasting a rich backdrop showcasing Thailand’s icon temples and pagodas.
Islands
With over a thousand islands dotting Thailand’s rolling coastline and the Andaman Sea, each island has charm, mystery, and beauty. Towering, jagged cliffs remain untouched by human hands and serve as a home to the wild animals hiding within the rock crevasses or underwater schisms.
Beaches
Thailand’s sun-kissed beaches are second to none. Layered with soft, white, silky sand, crystal clear waters, and lush terrain, Thailand’s southern beaches serve as the ideal filming location for dramas, romantic comedies, and action and adventure films.
Mountains
North Thailand is home to impressive, lush mountain ranges. During winter months, Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep are cloaked in a sea of fog and the grass is blanketed by dewdrops every morning.
Set Buildings
Crew & Gear
Thailand offers a highly skilled pool of internationally experienced crew members who have worked on blockbuster feature films, high-end TV commercials, and international television series. The local crew is English-speaking, so communication and coordination on set are easy.
Thailand also provides state-of-the-art equipment and gear for any type of shoot. From high-tech camera rigs and lighting equipment to specialized equipment, producers can find everything they need for their project.
How Mbrella Films Can Help
Started over a decade ago, Mbrella Films offers full-service support from pre-production to post-production in Thailand.
- Location Scouting & Logistics: Thailand offers filmmakers a variety of landscapes. Mbrella Films handles location scouting, permits, and transportation to ensure a hassle-free production.
- Crew & Equipment Hire: Gain access to Thailand’s best film professionals and equipment.
- English-speaking Producers: Our experienced team guides you through every step of production.
Ready to make the most of your next production? Let us connect you to a local producer who can help you prequalify for Thailand’s rebate program.
