The top 10 aerial filming locations in Jordan are Wadi Rum, Petra, the Dead Sea, Wadi Mujib, Dana Biosphere, Jerash, Ajloun Castle, Aqaba’s Red Sea coast, the Eastern Desert basalt fields, and Mount Nebo. Each spot delivers a different visual: red sand, carved rock, salt formations, canyon depth, ancient ruins, and coastline. CARC permits are required at most — we handle them.
1. Wadi Rum — the world’s most filmed desert
Wadi Rum’s red-rock spires and orange dunes have appeared in Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian, and Dune. Aerial filming captures the scale that ground photography can’t — you need altitude to see the canyons. Permits coordinated through the Aqaba Special Economic Zone and CARC.
2. Petra — aerial views of the Lost City
Drone access to Petra is restricted; flights are only allowed with a specific archaeological permit and limited windows. When approved, the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs from above look unlike any ground angle. Lead time on permits is 4–8 weeks.
3. The Dead Sea — salt formations and shoreline
The receding shoreline has created surreal salt formations that only reveal their geometry from the air. Best filmed in early morning when the sun is low and the salt glitters. Both Jordanian and Israeli sides of the border are within CARC’s permit framework.
4. Wadi Mujib — canyon depth from above
The Mujib reserve canyon is dramatic from the rim and even more so from above. Aerial shots reveal the full canyon system feeding into the Dead Sea. Flight requires a reserve-coordinated permit; we handle it.
5. Dana Biosphere Reserve
Dana’s vast escarpment, from highland to desert in 1,800 m of drop, is one of Jordan’s most dramatic landscapes. Aerial sequences from the rim down toward Feynan are unforgettable. Wildlife considerations apply — we follow reserve guidelines.
6. Jerash — Roman city from above
Jerash’s colonnaded streets, hippodrome, and oval forum show their full geometry only from the air. Drone filming requires Department of Antiquities approval; processing time 2–4 weeks. Permitted shoots typically use morning light for best stone tones.
7. Ajloun Castle and forests
The Ayyubid castle of Ajloun crowning a forested hilltop is one of Jordan’s most photogenic combinations — green canopy below, stone walls above, distant horizon. Spring and autumn offer the best colour palette.
8. Aqaba — Red Sea coast and reef
Aqaba’s coastline from above shows reef edges, dive boats, and the dramatic Saudi mountains across the water. Permits required because of the port and airport. Best filming in March–May and October–November.
9. Eastern Desert basalt fields
The basalt fields and desert castles east of Azraq are a hidden filming gem — dark volcanic terrain, ancient qasrs, and endless horizon. Less restricted airspace; permits are routine when handled in advance.
10. Mount Nebo — Holy Land panorama
Mount Nebo offers a panoramic aerial view across the Jordan Valley toward the Dead Sea and, on clear days, Jericho. Religious site sensitivity applies; we coordinate with the local authorities for filming approvals.
Top 10 filming locations — permit and timing
| Location | Best months | Permit lead time |
|---|---|---|
| Wadi Rum | Mar–May, Oct–Nov | 2–4 weeks |
| Petra | Mar–May, Oct–Nov | 4–8 weeks |
| Dead Sea | Oct–Apr | 1–2 weeks |
| Wadi Mujib | Sep–May | 2–4 weeks |
| Dana | Mar–May, Sep–Nov | 2–4 weeks |
| Jerash | Year-round | 2–4 weeks |
| Ajloun | Mar–Jun, Sep–Nov | 1–2 weeks |
| Aqaba | Mar–May, Oct–Nov | 2–3 weeks |
| Eastern Desert | Mar–May, Oct–Nov | 1–2 weeks |
| Mount Nebo | Year-round | 1–2 weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I film Petra with a drone?
Yes, but only with a Department of Antiquities permit and a specific filming window. Permits take 4–8 weeks. We handle the application for commercial productions.
Where in Jordan can I fly without a permit?
Nowhere commercially. All commercial drone work in Jordan requires CARC clearance. Hobby flights have less paperwork but still must avoid restricted zones.
What’s the best filming location for a tourism brand?
Wadi Rum delivers the highest visual impact per shoot day, with the Dead Sea as a contrasting second location. Together they cover the ‘red desert + blue water’ combination that wins tourism campaigns.
Can you film at multiple locations in one trip?
Yes — most multi-location productions combine 2–3 of these spots over 3–5 days. We design the schedule so each permit aligns with the planned shoot window.
What about the Eastern Desert castles?
Routinely accessible with standard CARC permits. The basalt landscape and Umayyad qasrs offer some of the most original aerial visuals in Jordan.
Work With Loyalty Drones
Planning a Jordan aerial production? Contact Loyalty Drones for a free quote. Related reading: drone services in Wadi Rum. drone services in Aqaba.
