Setting Up Shoots in the Middle East
Overview
Considering the Middle East for your next production? From golden dunes and futuristic skylines to lush oases and the landscapes of ancient civilizations, the region offers a breathtaking range of filming backdrops.
Its visual diversity and fast-developing production infrastructure make it one of the most versatile destinations for filmmakers worldwide.
Join us for a comprehensive session on unlocking creative horizons in the Middle East, exploring how to navigate permits, respect cultural sensitivities, hire trusted local crews, and capture the authentic beauty of this extraordinary region.
Who Should Attend
This session is designed for anyone working in production or editorial roles across all genres: documentary, reality TV, film, factual entertainment, corporate, and commercial.
It’s also ideal for on-ground crew, including producers, HODs, and location teams.
What We’ll Cover
• Understanding permit procedures and timelines across countries and cities
• Navigating customs and equipment import regulations
• Finding reliable fixers and local crews
• Managing extreme weather, cultural sensitivities, and censorship
• Shooting across diverse terrains: deserts, mangroves, and cityscapes
• Case studies of successful productions (Dubai, Bahrain, Syria, Qatar)
• Tips for optimizing budgets with local expertise
Countries Covered
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Qatar
Bahrain
Kuwait
Oman
Jordan
Lebanon
Syria
Palestine
Egypt
Morocco
Tunisia
Algeria
Libya
Trainer
Tara Shehata is a multilingual Film Producer and Director working across the Middle East and North Africa. With a background spanning both creative and logistical production, Tara has led and supported shoots in Egypt, the Levant, and across Europe, managing everything from permits and on-ground logistics to story development and direction.
Before joining Storytailors, Tara worked as a Director’s Producer on the Shahid TV series Selat Rahem, collaborating closely with Cedars Art Production in Beirut and Cairo. She has also directed music videos for leading Egyptian artists, corporate documentaries, and short films that have screened at Oscar-qualifying festivals, including The Shadow of Cairo (2019) and Alone with You (2024)
At Storytailors, Tara oversees productions throughout the MENA region, connecting international clients with trusted local crews, navigating complex permit processes, and ensuring every project captures the authenticity and creative potential of its location. Fluent in English, Arabic, and French, she brings a uniquely cross-cultural perspective to every production, bridging global teams with the region’s dynamic production landscape.
Tara Shehata, Middle East & North Africa International Producer
T: +201222245311 E: tara@storytailors.tv
Cost: Free
Duration: 1 hour
Location: Online (via Zoom)
Next Webinar: 5th November, 1pm - 2pm*
*This session will be recorded, so do sign up even if you can’t attend and we’ll send you the recording after the session.