Iconic Locations for Your Next Production in Morocco

Morocco’s diverse geography and timeless architecture have made it a preferred global hub for international cinema for decades. From the sweeping golden dunes of the Sahara to the intricate, medieval medinas of its imperial cities, the country offers a vast array of versatile backdrops that can double for anywhere from ancient Rome to a futuristic galaxy and the very best filming locations in Morocco.

Ouarzazate: The Hollywood of Africa

Known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” Ouarzazate is the heart of the Moroccan film industry. It is home to Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world, featuring expansive sets that have hosted legendary blockbusters.

• Aït Benhaddou: This UNESCO World Heritage site is an ancient fortified ksar (village) made of earthen clay. Its labyrinthine alleys and iconic reddish-brown walls have appeared in over 20 international films, including Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones.
• Kasbah Taourirt: A majestic 19th-century fortress often used for historical and fantasy productions requiring authentic North African architecture.

The Sahara Desert: Epic Vistas

The Sahara provides an otherworldly setting for adventure and sci-fi epics. The towering dunes of Merzouga and Erg Chebbi are particularly sought after for their dramatic sunsets and remote atmosphere.

• Notable Productions: The Mummy, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and Spectre.

Essaouira & Coastal Locations

With its windswept beaches and 18th-century fortified ramparts, Essaouira is the ideal location for maritime and period dramas. Its unique blend of Portuguese and Moroccan architecture offers a distinctive aesthetic.

• Notable Productions: Game of Thrones (as the city of Astapor), John Wick 3, and Orson Welles’ Othello.

Imperial Cities & Urban Settings

• Marrakech: A vibrant city offering a mix of bustling souks, opulent palaces (like Bahia Palace), and lush gardens. It is a favourite for action thrillers like Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation.
• Tangier: Located at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, Tangier’s cosmopolitan flair and Art Deco architecture make it a hub for espionage dramas. It was famously used for the high-speed chase scenes in The Bourne Ultimatum and Inception.
• Casablanca: Morocco’s economic capital provides modern urban landscapes, French colonial architecture, and the stunning Hassan II Mosque—perfect for contemporary thrillers.
• Fes: Home to one of the world’s oldest medinas, Fes serves as a medieval “open-air museum,” recently seen in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.