In Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, filmmaker Denis Villeneuve embarked on an extensive journey into the Arabian desert to film “Dune: Part Two.” Spending almost a month in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Oasis, Villeneuve utilized the stunning landscape to bring to life the desert planet Arrakis, known for its massive sandworms.
Praising the location and support provided by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission and UAE-based production services company Epic Films, Villeneuve emphasized the importance of nature in “Dune.” The film’s cast, including Zendaya, Javier Bardem, Rebecca Ferguson, and cinematographer Greig Fraser, shared their experiences in a exclusive behind-the-scenes video.
Returning to Abu Dhabi after shooting the first installment, the cast and crew of “Dune: Part Two” spent 27 days amidst Liwa’s towering dunes, some exceeding 600 feet in height. Executive producer Tanya Lapointe described the logistical challenges of the production, which involved a network of 18 miles of road leading to various filming locations.
Legendary Pictures took advantage of the Abu Dhabi Film Commission’s 30% cashback rebate on production expenses within the Emirate. Line producer Robbie McAree highlighted the difficulties faced in filming “Dune: Part Two,” especially in scouting new desert locations near the Saudi border.
Utilizing close to 300 locally-based crew members and contractors, the production also involved nearly 500 local background extras over the 27-day shoot. Villeneuve’s vision of exploring new filming sites led to close collaboration with local professionals and support from the Abu Dhabi Film Commission and municipality.
Accommodations for the A-list talent, including Timothee Chalamet and Zendaya, were found at the Qasr Al Sarab Hotel desert resort, serving as the production’s base. Recognizing the challenge of limited beds, a solution was proposed to build a camp on-site, providing a unique and practical housing option for the cast and crew.
In the vast desert landscape of Abu Dhabi, “Dune: Part Two” not only captured breathtaking visuals but also showcased the collaborative efforts and innovative solutions required for a successful and immersive filming experience.