Abu Dhabi confirmed as filming location for Denis Villeneuve’s Dune 3
Winning the trust of major studios, Abu Dhabi will once again take center stage as a key filming location for Denis Villeneuve’s Dune 3. Legendary Entertainment confirmed that production for the highly anticipated third installment will return to the Liwa desert, known for its towering dunes and expansive golden horizons that vividly portray the fictional world of Arrakis.
The new film will continue the sweeping saga of Paul Atreides and the enduring legacy of his imperial rule. Filming in the desert city is expected to start later this year, supported by Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority and the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, with Image Nation Abu Dhabi serving as a production partner.
Liwa desert returns to the spotlight
The Academy Award-winning franchise from Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures will again benefit from the cashback rebate program offered by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission. This initiative has helped position the emirate as a global filmmaking hub, attracting over 180 productions including Mission: Impossible, Star Wars, Fast and Furious, Sonic the Hedgehog, F1: The Movie, and Netflix’s 6 Underground and War Machine.
The Liwa desert has proven to be an ideal cinematic landscape for Arrakis, offering filmmakers both visual grandeur and logistical support. With Dune 3 set to capture more of its mythic atmosphere, Abu Dhabi strengthens its reputation as a premier destination for international blockbusters.
Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority at the forefront
The Creative Media Authority (CMA) continues to drive the emirate’s content creation ecosystem through talent development, financial incentives, and strategic guidance. Overseeing organizations such as Image Nation and the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, CMA ensures that local and international productions alike benefit from a world-class environment for filmmaking.
Through initiatives like creative lab and Arab Film Studio, CMA also invests in training the next generation of storytellers, ensuring Abu Dhabi remains a sustainable hub for the creative industries.
