Malta’s rise as a premier film production hub is driven by aggressive tax incentives, diverse scenery, and a booming industry hosting more than 30 major productions yearly
In recent years, Malta has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after filming locations, captivating American and British filmmakers alike. Despite being the EU’s smallest country, this Mediterranean island has hosted a record 36 productions in 2023 and 2025, ranging from blockbuster sequels like Jurassic World Rebirth and Gladiator II to new adaptations such as The Magic Faraway Tree and action hits like Mutiny.
The island’s natural beauty, historic architecture, and film-friendly incentives have turned it into a versatile backdrop standing in for settings as diverse as ancient Rome, the Caribbean, rural France, Sicily, and even fictional realms like the Bay of Pentos from Game of Thrones. This rapid growth is attributed to Malta’s generous 40% cash rebate scheme, which unlike many rivals, applies not only to local hires but also to foreign crews and equipment when local alternatives are unavailable.
According to information disclosed by the European Audiovisual Observatory and confirmed by Malta’s Film Commissioner Johann Grech, Malta’s film industry now operates year-round, producing consistent work that significantly contributes to the national economy. As Grech explains, “Every euro that we invest in the rebate, the industry generates back four.”
A Magnet for Major Film Productions
Malta’s journey as a filming hotspot traces back to the silent film Sons of the Sea in 1925 and grew steadily with the establishment of massive water tanks in the 1970s, enabling large-scale maritime scenes. Now, the island hosts over 30 film and TV productions annually, including high-profile projects like the BBC’s Two Weeks in August, and upcoming features such as Guy Ritchie’s Viva la Madness.
The country’s ability to mimic various global locations makes it a go-to for filmmakers looking for flexibility and authenticity. Notably, Netflix’s third season of Enola Holmes moves its story to Victorian-era Malta, showcasing the island itself as a central character.
Generous Tax Incentives Fuel Industry Growth
Malta introduced a cash rebate program in 2005 but ramped up its generosity over the past decade to secure a competitive edge in Europe’s intense rivalry for film productions. All major projects that filmed in Malta in 2025 benefited from a 40% rebate, one of the most substantial offers worldwide according to producers involved with titles like Napoleon and Gladiator II.
This model aligns with a wider European trend where nearly half of fiction film budgets stem from tax incentives, fundamentally shaping where and how productions are developed. As the European Audiovisual Observatory notes, “films and series no longer simply occupy locations, they are engineered around them.” Malta’s upcoming plans to extend this rebate beyond its 2028 expiry and to build an €80 million studio complex further cement the country’s ambitions.
Challenges Amid Rapid Expansion
Despite this boom, concerns linger about the local film industry’s development. Maltese filmmakers face stiff competition for resources and talent, often outbid by lavish international productions. Screenwriter Teodor Reljić observes, “People in servicing are thriving, but local filmmakers can’t pay a Director of Photography because they expect Jurassic World fees.” Meanwhile, local funding remains modest compared to the generous rebates offered for international projects.
Moreover, the pressure on Malta’s urban infrastructure is growing, with frequent road closures and parking restrictions impacting residents. Incidents like damage to a century-old statue in Valletta during a shoot have sparked community frustration, reflecting a need to balance filming with everyday life on the island.
Looking Ahead: Malta as a Film Industry Pillar
Malta’s film commission continues to prioritize courting global productions while efforts to nurture homegrown cinema are managed separately by the arts council. As Johann Grech highlights, the film industry is becoming a vital economic pillar for Malta, generating multiple euros in return for each euro spent on incentives.
With a unique combination of stunning locations, competitive rebates, and expanding infrastructure, Malta is not just a backdrop for famous stories—it is rapidly shaping its own cinematic identity in the world of film production.
