From the golden dunes of the Arabian Desert to futuristic skyscrapers of Dubai, the Middle East has been a home for films go-to backdrop for storytelling. Whether it’s a secret agent chasing through bustling souks or ancient cities portrayed as lost civilizations, this region has played a role in some of cinema’s unforgettable moments. Let’s go through some of the iconic films shot in the Middle East that have been a part of the cinema!
Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011) and Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning (2023)
One of the most memorable and iconic scenes shot on Burj Khalifa, Dubai where Tom Cruise glides down from a height of about 1,700 feet – it became the famous ‘Mission Impossible Dubai’ stunt.
Wall Street – Money Never Sleeps (2010)
To showcase the luxury and grandeurs of being wealthy, Dubai’s gleaming skyscrapers and lavish landscapes were brought into picture. The city’s architectural wonders, not-to-forget Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah became symbolic representations of the luxurious lifestyle.
Dubai is an integral player in shaping the cinematic portrayal of the elite’s affluent lifestyle.
Dune (2021) & Dune – Part 2 (2023)
Filming Dune in Abu Dhabi was an easy task as the golden dunes of UAE match perfectly with the title. The choice to shoot in the capital of UAE added an authentic touch to the films’ desert planet scenes, blending fiction and reality seamlessly.
The UAE’s breathtaking landscapes not only enhance the cinematic narrative but also shape the actors’ personal experiences, forging a deep connection between the film and the nation’s stunning scenery.
Furious 7 (2015)
In 2015, the franchise of Fast and Furious made an entry in UAE. The saga chose Abu Dhabi as its playground, capturing dynamic energy against the backdrop of the city’s iconic spots. Locations like Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, the regal Emirates Palace, and the adrenaline-pumping Yas Marina Circuit were a treat to the extravagant cars.
Pathan (2023)
The action-packed film was shot in and around Dubai’s Burj Khalifa Boulevard. It was one of the challenging shoot as the actors, Shah Rukh Khan and John Abraham had to fight each other on a thrilling car-chase sequence.
Happy New Year (2017)
Shooting this film in Dubai was not just the central location, but it was a pivotal plot point in the narrative arc. The locations majorly shown were Atlantis, the Palm and the Dubai Mall to capture the citys’ larger than life experiences.
The director, Farah Khan, said that she conceptualized the landscape of Dubai while writing her script.
Welcome (2007) and Welcome Back (2015)
The original and sequel films were shot in Dubai where it perfectly captures the luxurious lifestyle, involving yacht parties and spectacular hotels.
The film has achieved amazing status and has become one of the famous Bollywood movies shot in Dubai.
Vikram Vedha (2022)
The Lucknow sets were created in Abu Dhabi as it was the only location providing the infrastructure for a bio-bubble and keeping in mind the health conditions as it was shot during Covid.
Dishoom (2016)
Abu Dhabi played a major role in the movies’ shooting location. It is said to be the longest feature film shot in the capital of UAE.
Race (2010)
The OG film was shot in Jebel Hafeet, that showed the childhood memory of Ranvir and Rajvir Singh racing on a cycle, along with their final race.
Baby (2015)
Apart from Nepal and Istanbul, the film was shot in Abu Dhabi because of authentic Middle eastern setting, world-class infrastructures, diverse locations, and mainly the security and stability in the country.
Heropanti 2 (2022)
The film was shot in Al Ain to show the stunning desert landscape in the garden city of UAE, controlled environment, and versatile filming locations.
Middle east isn’t just a backdrop, it’s a scene-stealer – this region continues to set the stage for epic storytelling. It is proved that real magic is not only in the script, but it is in the scenery.
(Contributed by Wajeeha Syed)