TAARIQ HALIM (ABU DHABI)

The third and final chapter of the epic science fiction film series “Dune” is set to be shot in Abu Dhabi “later this year”, Legendary Entertainment confirmed on Tuesday.

The principal shooting location will once again be the picturesque Liwa desert, whose towering sand dunes and expansive terrain will provide the backdrop for the mythical planet of Arrakis.

“Filming in the desert city will begin later this year, with Creative Media Authority Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Film Commission providing essential logistical support, and Image Nation serving as production partner,” the commission announced on its website on Tuesday.

Denis Villeneuve’s cinematic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s books will continue the saga of Paul Atreides and the complex legacy of this empirical rule.

A star cast featuring Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Jason Momoa, Florence Pugh, Javier Bardem and Josh Brolin are set to return, joined by newcomer Robert Pattinson.

The film, a continuation of the Academy Award-winning franchise from Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures, will benefit from the cashback rebate offered by the commission.

The commission added: “We look forward to welcoming [Dune production company] Legendary back to Abu Dhabi!”

The duration of filming and a cinema release date are yet to be announced.

The Dune films have been a critical and commercial success, earning over $1billion to date.

Dune (2021) grossed over $400 million worldwide and received six Academy Awards, while Dune: Part Two (2024) exceeded $626 million.

Abu Dhabi has recently served as the location for more than 180 major film and TV productions via the introduction of the cashback rebate, including “F1 The Movie”, “Mission: Impossible”, “Star Wars”, “Fast and Furious”, “Sonic the Hedgehog”.