Filming at the Pyramids of Giza and Saqqara
The pyramids are the most requested location in Egypt and one of the most regulated. We know the approvals, the access times and the best angles, and we have shot on the plateau for international productions, including a Red Bull world-record stunt.
The plateau and beyond
The Giza plateau has the three great pyramids, the Sphinx, the valley temple and wide desert views back to the city. South of Giza, Saqqara has the Step Pyramid of Djoser and quieter desert, and Dahshur has the Bent and Red pyramids with almost no visitors. When the Giza plateau is too busy or too restricted for a scene, Saqqara or Dahshur often give you the same feeling with more freedom.
Permits and fees
Filming at the pyramids needs a permit from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities as well as the Egypt Film Commission permit for foreign productions. Fees are charged per site and per day, and larger crews, drones, animals and special access all add to the paperwork. Apply early: antiquities approvals take longer than standard locations.
Access times and crowds
The plateau is open to visitors during the day, so most productions shoot at first light, plan around the crowds, or request special access outside visitor hours where possible. We plan the unit base, the walk-in for equipment and the security escort with the site management.
Drones, camels and horses
Drones over the pyramids need separate security and aviation approvals and are not always granted, so we plan alternatives like cranes and high positions. Camels and horses for scenes come with experienced handlers.
Shot in Egypt by Filmedia
From first email to wrap.
- 01You send
The brief
Script or treatment, dates, the look you want and crew size. We reply within 24 hours with location ideas and a first budget range.
- 02We scout
Recce & budget
Photo and video recce of the shortlist, then we lock schedule and budget with you, line by line.
- 03We clear
Permits & customs
We file the filming permits, often about a week once prep and first approvals are in, clear your equipment through customs and hire crew and fixers.
- 04We shoot
Shoot & wrap
Daily reports to your office during the shoot. After wrap we close permits, returns and paperwork.
Have dates and a script? Send them today. We reply within 24 hours.
Send your brief ↗FAQ
Can you film at the Pyramids of Giza?+
Yes. Foreign productions need an Egypt Film Commission permit and an antiquities permit, with fees per day. We apply for both and handle access on the day.
Can you fly a drone at the pyramids?+
Only with special approvals, which are not always granted. Ask early and keep a non-drone plan ready.
Is Saqqara easier to film than Giza?+
Often, yes. Saqqara and Dahshur are quieter and can be easier to control, with similar desert and pyramid views.
Shoot something like this in Egypt.
We reply within 24 hours. Permits are often ready in about a week once prep and first approvals are in.
Your nextshoot inEgypt.
Filmedia Production LLC · Dokki, Giza, Egypt
Also producing in Dubai