Look ma, I’m on the big screen…
With futuristic skylines, vast otherworldly deserts, and a squad of top-tier filmmakers right here, it’s no surprise the UAE is a go-to for epic big-screen action.
Here’s a look at some of the most iconic moments where the UAE steals the show.
18 of the best movies filmed in the UAE
Gran Turismo (2023)
This isn’t your typical movie adaptation of the famous Sony game mainly because the game doesn’t even have a real storyline. (Though, let’s be real, maybe that would’ve improved the Assassin’s Creed movie… but we’ll leave that debate for another day.) Instead, it’s the incredible true story of how Gran Turismo turned a young gamer’s life around. Enter Jann Mardenborough (played by Archie Madekwe), an elite gamer and Gran Turismo legend, who was recruited into a racing academy after a marketing exec (Danny Moore, played by Orlando Bloom) had a hunch that top gamers might make top drivers. Directed by Neill Blomkamp (District 9, Elysium), the cast also includes Madekwe, Bloom, David Harbour, and Josha Stradowski. One of the movie’s standout moments was filmed right here at the Dubai Autodrome, where they recreated a pivotal moment in Mardenborough’s racing career. We got the chance to catch up with the cast during their time here, and here’s what they had to say…
Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1 (2023)
The seventh Mission: Impossible flick marks the third time Tom Cruise’s all-action, no-nonsense blockbuster has landed in the UAE—and this time, it’s an Abu Dhabi double feature. First up, we’ve got the jaw-dropping scenes filmed inside (and, tiny spoiler, on top of) the sleek new Terminal A at Zayed International Airport, where the IMF team is on a mission to intercept the key to a menacing advanced AI. Then, there are the epic desert ambush sequences in the Rub’ al Khali, where Ethan Hunt (Cruise) comes to the rescue of rogue agent Ilsa Faust.
Dune (2020) and Dune Part 2 (2024)
Get ready for a spice-filled ride. Dune is director Denis Villeneuve’s take on the iconic Frank Herbert sci-fi novel, reimagining the 1984 classic. Leading the cast this time are Timothée Chalamet, Josh Brolin, Rebecca Ferguson, and Jason Momoa. The story centers around Paul Atreides (Chalamet), a young man caught in a deadly power struggle on a remote planet, where two noble houses fight for control of the galaxy’s most valuable resource Melange, aka “the spice.” The epic desert planet of Arrakis is brought to life by Abu Dhabi’s majestic Empty Quarter. And if you’re already hooked, mark your calendar—the third chapter of the saga is set to hit screens in late 2026.
Star Trek Beyond (2016)
When the location scouts were searching for a futuristic cityscape to set the third installment of this sci-fi reboot saga, Dubai must have stuck out immediately. Its Tomorrowland architecture, fast cars, smart city credentials and Metro stations that look straight outta 3020 make it the perfect candidate for offering a glimpse of what’s to come. So much so, that while many of the scenes were digitally enhanced, we recognised countless locations. JLT, DIFC and the Burj Khalifa all star alongside the cast’s own big names, including Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg, Karl Urban, Zoe Saldana, Idris Elba and Anton Yelchin.
Independence Day: Resurgence (2016)
The sequel to the smash-hit 2001 Independence Day with Will Smith didn’t exactly blow critics away, but it’s still totally watchable if you’re in the mood to just enjoy the wild ride. As you’d expect from a movie where humanity’s survival is on the line, Earth doesn’t get much love in the visuals department. Dubai does have its moment, though when the iconic Burj Khalifa gets flipped over and used to skewer part of London’s South Bank. Those aliens really weren’t playing around.
Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
This fourth Mission: Impossible film gets a solid five out of five for those heart-pounding stunts. The MI crew hits Dubai to stop the sale of launch codes and avert nuclear disaster, with the crown jewel being that jaw-dropping free-climbing scene on the Burj Khalifa—seriously, it’s worth the price of admission alone. Sure, the film takes some creative liberties with Dubai’s geography, but you’re a saint if you can watch Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) sprint straight out of DIFC and straight into a random Old Dubai souk without loudly questioning the sheer improbability of it all.
6 Underground (2019)
When you pair Michael Bay with Ryan Reynolds, you’re pretty much guaranteed a formula for box-office gold. Expect mind-blowing cinematography, non-stop action, and snappy dialogue served with Reynolds’ signature wit, which is exactly what this high-octane, super-fun Netflix flick delivers. And the best part? A big chunk of it was shot right here in Abu Dhabi.
Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015
We always knew Abu Dhabi had some serious force potential, but did you know the desert planet Jakku where we first meet Rey (Daisy Ridley) in the Skywalker Star Wars trilogy was actually filmed here? Yep, those iconic Jakku scenes were shot right in Abu Dhabi. Being immortalized in one of the biggest movie franchises ever? Pretty huge. And to top it off, Abu Dhabi even gets a shoutout in the film during a chat with Finn (John Boyega), Rey mentions a place called “Liwa Outpost.” Sounds like a Kessel Run we could totally plug into our GPS and hit in under 12 parsecs.
Mission Impossible Fallout (2018)
Alright, we’ll admit it—this one’s a bit of a cheat. Despite the movie ticking off more global destinations than a gap-year backpacker with unlimited funds, there’s only one scene actually filmed in the UAE. And, of course, they used CGI to make it look like Paris. The scene in question? Ethan Hunt’s (Tom Cruise) insane, lightning-drenched HALO (high altitude, low opening) parachute jump. Fun fact: it took Cruise a whopping 106 jumps to nail those few seconds of epic screen time. Talk about dedication!
Furious 7 (2015)
Yeah, Furious 7 definitely took things to another level, both in terms of action and emotion. The Lykan Hypersport jump between the towers in Abu Dhabi became one of the most iconic and outrageous moments of the franchise—almost too ridiculous to believe, but somehow still thrilling to watch. The whole sequence was one of those “we know this is over-the-top, but we’re still here for it” kind of moments. The fact that it was Paul Walker’s last film really made the whole movie feel extra special, too. You could see how the crew and everyone involved worked to honor him, especially with those emotional moments towards the end. It’s a rare thing to see a blockbuster hit with such a heartfelt, behind-the-scenes backstory.
Race 3 (2018)
Race 3 definitely had that larger-than-life Bollywood vibe, with all the action, twists, and high-stakes drama you expect from a Salman Khan film. The fact that it was shot in such iconic locations in Abu Dhabi just adds to its glamor and scale. The Emirates Palace, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, and the St Regis are all luxurious backdrops that fit the film’s high-octane, lavish aesthetic perfectly. And the setting in Abu Dhabi worked well to give the movie that international flair, showing off the city’s futuristic architecture and stunning landscapes.
It’s also interesting how Bollywood has been increasingly turning to Abu Dhabi as a prime shooting destination, especially considering how the city’s growth and modernity align with the opulence and action-packed nature of these films. The local government has been promoting the city as a filming hub for big-budget movies for years now, so Race 3 is just one in a string of high-profile projects filmed there.
Syriana (2005)
Syriana is a fascinating one! It’s not the kind of film you’d expect to have that slick, commercial appeal, but its intricate storytelling and layered narrative about the oil industry, geopolitics, and corruption really keep you on the edge of your seat. The way it’s constructed—almost like a puzzle—makes it a unique thriller. And of course, the cast is incredible, with everyone from Clooney to Damon delivering powerhouse performances. As for Dubai, even though the film takes place in a fictional Middle Eastern state, it’s pretty clear the filmmakers used the city’s sleek, modern skyline and iconic landmarks to add authenticity to the setting. The shots of Dubai’s skyline, like the Burj Khalifa, are unmistakable, and they give the film an interesting juxtaposition—shining, ultra-modern spaces against the murky underworld of corporate corruption and politics.
Given its intense subject matter and the gritty portrayal of the oil business, Dubai’s futuristic backdrop adds a nice layer of irony. It’s also notable for being one of the first big Hollywood films to shoot in the city, paving the way for more international productions to come.
The Misfits (2021)
The Misfits definitely has that classic heist film appeal, but with a bit of a modern twist. And having Tim Roth and Pierce Brosnan on board? That’s a great combination Roth brings a certain intensity to his roles, while Brosnan has that suave, polished charm that makes him perfect for a gentleman thief role. You’re right about the echoes of The Thomas Crown Affair, but hey, there’s always room for a good heist movie, especially with that level of talent.
Filming entirely in Abu Dhabi gives the movie a distinct vibe. The city’s dramatic landscapes, futuristic architecture, and luxurious locales really fit well with the whole “high-stakes heist” atmosphere. It’s fascinating to see how FilmGate Productions, an Emirati movie ensemble, is becoming a more visible part of the international film scene. They’ve really helped shape Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a go-to filming location for international productions. The city’s skyline and desert backdrops create a striking visual contrast that adds to the suspense and intrigue of the story.
F1 (2025)
That sounds like an absolute rush of a movie! Brad Pitt diving into the world of Formula 1, especially under Joseph Kosinski’s direction, is bound to be a visual feast. Kosinski, known for his stylish direction in films like Top Gun: Maverick, knows how to capture high-speed action with a visceral, almost sensory experience, so I can imagine the racing sequences in this movie will be absolutely gripping. The way they translate the intense, high-stakes experience of F1 racing onto the screen, with all the focus on the precision, adrenaline, and inner turmoil of the driver, sounds like it’s going to be one of those films where you feel every turn of the wheel and every shift in the car. The personal and professional drama surrounding Sonny Hayes, with his return to the track after retirement, adds that human element that keeps sports films grounded. The mentorship dynamic is always a good touch in these kinds of stories it’s almost like the F1 equivalent of a coach pushing the player to go beyond their limits. And Pitt’s got the chops to bring depth to that kind of character arc, for sure.
But the real cherry on top is the involvement of actual F1 racers. Cameos from real-world drivers are a clever way to bring authenticity and credibility to the movie. And the fact that it ends with the footage from the actual Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit adds a whole other level of immersion for racing fans and moviegoers alike. If you’ve watched any of the Drive to Survive series, you know that the Abu Dhabi GP is often the thrilling finale, so seeing it in a big-budget movie will probably hit all the right notes for fans of both racing and cinema.
Now You See Me: Now You Don’t
Oh, I love that connection to The Prestige Nolan’s take on magic is such a great template for this kind of story. The “three acts” of a magic trick are such a perfect way to structure a film, and the Now You See Me franchise definitely leans into that magic and mystery with its heist-driven plots. The fact that the third installment brings in Abu Dhabi is a fun twist, especially since the city is such a visually striking and iconic place to stage a big, jaw-dropping finale. Shooting in locations like the Louvre Abu Dhabi dome, with its stunning architecture and that intricate webbed ceiling, adds a level of sophistication to the whole thing. It’s such a dramatic space one of those places where you almost feel like you’re in the middle of some kind of high-stakes illusion yourself. Plus, including the F1 and Yas Island theme parks, it feels like they’re blending the world’s of high-speed action, world-class culture, and illusion, which is the perfect recipe for this kind of movie.
I’m really curious about how they’ll build the tension in those final moments under such a dramatic backdrop. The Louvre dome itself almost feels like a “magic trick” of sorts, with its grand design and ability to create a sense of awe. I can totally see the franchise taking full advantage of the UAE’s location as a visually rich and modern setting.
Coming to a screen, from a shoot location near you, soon…
Dune 3
Paul Atreides really has been through the wringer, hasn’t he? The journey from Dune to Dune: Part Two already takes him to some pretty dark places, but if they stick to the source material from Dune Messiah, things are about to get even messier. The whole “empire-building” fantasy really takes a turn when Paul’s vision of the future isn’t all glory and peace, and the consequences of his rise to power come crashing down on him and those around him. It’s such a brilliant and complex layer that Herbert weaves into the story what happens when the savior becomes the thing he feared most? As for the movie, it sounds like they’re really leaning into the weight of that narrative, especially with new cast additions like Nakoa-Wolf Momoa (Jason Momoa’s son, I believe?), Ida Brooke, and Robert Pattinson. That’s a solid roster Pattinson, in particular, has a way of taking on roles that are mysterious and morally complex, so I’m intrigued to see what part he’ll play in this universe.
Filming in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa is an interesting choice, though not surprising. The desert landscapes there really evoke the vast, harsh beauty of Arrakis those golden sand dunes are perfect for capturing the vastness of the planet. The Fremen culture, with its connection to the desert, feels especially powerful in a setting like Liwa. It’s almost like the location itself becomes a character in the film. And with Liwa’s vastness and imposing beauty, the environment will probably serve as both a visual backdrop and a symbolic reflection of Paul’s growing internal conflict.
As we know, in Dune Messiah, Paul’s reign is marked by both internal and external crises, with rebellion stirring across the galaxy and the pressures of leadership weighing heavily on him. The next film could dive into themes of power, fate, and the limits of a messiah figure in a way that’s even more emotionally charged than the previous two.
An, as yet, untitled Jack Ryan movie
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It’s pretty cool to hear that John Krasinski is returning as Jack Ryan for a feature film! His take on the character really took off with Jack Ryan on Prime Video, where he blended the everyman charm of his earlier roles with some serious action and dramatic weight. Plus, Krasinski’s ability to balance humor and intensity made him a perfect fit for the role of a CIA analyst who suddenly finds himself thrown into the heart of global crises. The fact that he’s coming back for a movie after wrapping up the series makes sense, especially since there’s still such a huge appetite for Clancy’s brand of espionage thrillers.
Filming in Dubai adds an exciting international flavor to the project. It’s always interesting to see how films utilize the city’s modern architecture and stunning skyline to give that “global espionage” feel. Whether it’s desert backdrops or the dazzling cityscape, Dubai can effortlessly serve as both a high-tech urban environment or a more intense, gritty location for Jack Ryan’s world-saving adventures. Krasinski posting about it on Instagram probably got a lot of fans excited too those behind-the-scenes peeks tend to get people invested even before the official release.
