Legendary Entertainment’s “Dune Saga” Set to Reignite Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Desert as Principal Filming Location for Next Chapter

Abu Dhabi is once again preparing to immerse itself in the epic science fiction universe of “Dune,” as Legendary Entertainment has confirmed the UAE capital will serve as a principal shooting location for the highly anticipated third installment of Denis Villeneuve’s acclaimed film adaptation. The return to Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert underscores the region’s crucial role in capturing the unique essence of the desert planet Arrakis, continuing the sprawling saga of Paul Atreides.

The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) and the Creative Media Authority (CMA) will provide essential logistical support, with local production company Image Nation serving as a production partner. This collaboration highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing status as a premier global destination for top-tier entertainment productions. The commitment to returning to Abu Dhabi for a third time signifies the Emirate’s successful integration into the “Dune” franchise’s creative and logistical framework.

Director Denis Villeneuve has previously lauded Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert for its “unmatchable” scale and mesmerising desert landscapes, noting that the specific climatic conditions, including a characteristic haze, perfectly complemented the visual aesthetic he sought for the films. For “Dune: Part Two,” the production team spent nearly a month in the Liwa desert, constructing a temporary village and utilizing approximately 20 distinct locations. This extensive shoot involved hundreds of local and international crew members and extras, generating significant employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy.

Abu Dhabi’s involvement in the “Dune” films has seen a marked increase since the first installment. While “Dune” (2021) involved five days of filming, “Dune: Part Two” expanded this significantly. The third film is expected to continue this trend, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s partnership with Legendary Entertainment. The emirate’s appeal is further enhanced by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission’s attractive cashback rebate, which has drawn numerous major international film and television productions, including the “Mission: Impossible,” “Star Wars,” and “Fast & Furious” franchises, as well as Netflix’s “6 Underground.”

The “Dune” saga, based on Frank Herbert’s seminal 1965 novel, has captivated audiences worldwide with its complex narrative and rich world-building. Villeneuve’s adaptation has been lauded for its faithful yet cinematic interpretation of the source material, with each film delving deeper into the intricate political, ecological, and spiritual themes of the story. The successful filming of the first two parts in Abu Dhabi has not only provided stunning backdrops but has also showcased the emirate’s capacity to support large-scale, ambitious productions. The continuation of this partnership for “Dune: Part Three” promises to bring more of Arrakis’s iconic vistas to the screen, once again leveraging the unique geographical advantages of the Liwa desert. The commitment to filming in Abu Dhabi not only benefits the “Dune” franchise by providing visually stunning and authentic locations but also reinforces the UAE’s position as a burgeoning hub for global entertainment and storytelling, contributing to its economic diversification and cultural influence. The film is slated for a December 2026 release, with production expected to commence later this year.