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Discover where Game of Thrones, Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Inception, and 100+ major productions were filmed across Morocco. Visit Atlas Studios, explore Ait Ben Haddou, and walk the sets of your favorite movies.
Morocco has been a cinematic destination since the earliest days of film. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, an extraordinary diversity of landscapes — from Sahara dunes to snow-capped Atlas peaks, from ancient medinas to Atlantic coastlines — and production costs a fraction of Hollywood or European studios, Morocco offers filmmakers an unmatched combination of visual splendor and practical advantages.
Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” is home to Atlas Studios, the largest film studio complex in the world by area. Since the 1960s, when David Lean chose Morocco for Lawrence of Arabia, the country has hosted over 100 major international productions. Ridley Scott built a full Roman colosseum for Gladiator. HBO transformed Ait Ben Haddou and Essaouira into the slave cities of Yunkai and Astapor for Game of Thrones. Christopher Nolan used Tangier's labyrinthine alleys for Inception's dreamscapes.
Today, visitors can walk through standing film sets, explore the real locations used in blockbusters, and book guided tours that bring cinematic history to life. This guide covers every major filming location in Morocco, the famous productions shot at each site, and practical tips for planning your own film-location adventure.
Whether you are a die-hard Game of Thrones fan wanting to stand where Daenerys freed the Unsullied, a cinema enthusiast tracing the footsteps of Peter O'Toole across the desert, or simply a traveler looking for unique and visually stunning destinations, Morocco's film locations deliver an experience that combines natural beauty, historical depth, and the magic of cinema in one unforgettable journey.
From Orson Welles in the 1950s to Netflix in the 2020s, Morocco's journey as a global filming destination spans over seven decades of cinematic history.
Orson Welles films Othello in Essaouira and Safi, launching Morocco as an international filming destination. The stark coastal architecture and labyrinthine medina streets prove irresistible to the legendary director.
David Lean's Lawrence of Arabia transforms Ouarzazate into a household name. The epic's success draws major studios to southern Morocco, establishing the region's reputation as the go-to location for desert epics and historical dramas.
Atlas Studios opens in Ouarzazate, providing purpose-built production facilities. Morocco attracts a steady stream of international productions including The Jewel of the Nile and The Living Daylights, building a skilled local crew base.
The Mummy and Kundun bring blockbuster-scale production to Morocco. Atlas Studios expands significantly. Martin Scorsese and other A-list directors discover the country's versatility and cost advantages.
Ridley Scott films Gladiator and Kingdom of Heaven, cementing Ouarzazate as “Hollywood of Africa.” The Moroccan government introduces film production incentives including tax rebates and streamlined permitting.
Game of Thrones, Inception, and John Wick 3 bring Morocco to global audiences. Streaming platforms begin producing original content in the country. The 20% tax rebate on production spending attracts major productions.
Morocco's film industry continues to grow with Netflix, Amazon, and Apple TV+ all producing content. New studio facilities expand capacity. Film tourism becomes a significant contributor to the economy.
Six key factors that have made Morocco one of the world's most sought-after filming destinations for over sixty years.
Landscape diversity
Sahara dunes, Atlas Mountains, Atlantic coast, ancient medinas, gorges, and palm oases all within a few hours of each other. Morocco can double for Egypt, Jordan, Tibet, ancient Rome, biblical lands, and fictional worlds.
300+ days of sunshine
Reliable weather means fewer weather-related delays and consistent natural lighting. Southern Morocco in particular offers near-guaranteed clear skies for most of the year.
Lower production costs
Crew, transport, accommodation, and set construction costs in Morocco are significantly lower than in Hollywood, Europe, or the Middle East, making large-scale productions more feasible.
World-class studios
Atlas Studios and CLA Studios in Ouarzazate offer massive backlots, sound stages, and standing sets. Atlas Studios covers over 30 hectares, making it the largest studio complex in the world by area.
Experienced local crews
Decades of international productions have created a deep pool of skilled Moroccan crew members, from set builders and extras to production coordinators and stunt performers.
Government film incentives
Morocco offers a 20% tax rebate on local production spending, streamlined filming permits, and a dedicated film commission that supports international productions with logistics and location scouting.
Morocco's film locations span the country, from the Atlantic coast to the Sahara. Each region offers distinct landscapes that have doubled for dozens of countries on screen.
The Hollywood of Africa
Atlas Studios
Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Asterix, The Jewel of the Nile
The largest film studio in the world by area. Open for daily tours (from 60 MAD) where you can walk through standing sets including a full Egyptian temple, Roman colosseum facades, and ancient city walls.
CLA Studios
The Bible, Ben-Hur (2016), Prison Break S5
The second major studio complex in Ouarzazate. Features sets from biblical epics and modern productions. Some tours available, but check availability as active filming may restrict access.
Tifoultoute Kasbah
Lawrence of Arabia, Sodom and Gomorrah
A restored kasbah just outside Ouarzazate used in early Hollywood productions of the 1960s. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert and palmeries.
UNESCO World Heritage Film Star
Ksar Ait Ben Haddou
Gladiator, Game of Thrones (Yunkai), The Mummy, Kingdom of Heaven
This UNESCO-listed fortified village has appeared in over 20 major films. The mud-brick towers against the Atlas Mountains create a timeless setting. Cross the river for the iconic reflection shot. Free entry; hire a local guide from 100 MAD.
The hilltop granary
Used as Yunkai in Game of Thrones Season 3
The summit of Ait Ben Haddou offers 360-degree views used extensively in Game of Thrones. Daenerys's siege of Yunkai was filmed here. The climb takes 20 minutes and rewards with stunning panoramic views.
Riverbed crossing
Gladiator slave market scenes, Alexander (2004)
The shallow river at the base of the ksar creates the classic approach shot seen in many films. During dry months you can walk across; in spring, stepping stones are provided. Best photographed in the golden hour.
Game of Thrones Astapor
Ramparts & Skala du Port
Game of Thrones (Astapor), Othello (1951), Alexander
The 18th-century Portuguese fortifications with bronze cannons became Astapor in Game of Thrones, where Daenerys famously commands the Unsullied. The atmospheric ramparts overlooking the Atlantic are free to explore.
Harbour & medina walls
Game of Thrones plaza scenes, Kingdom of Heaven
Essaouira's compact, photogenic harbour with blue fishing boats served as the waterfront of Astapor. The arched gateway and city walls provided the backdrop for several key Game of Thrones sequences.
Orson Welles Square
Othello (1951) directed by Orson Welles
Named after the legendary filmmaker who shot much of his Othello adaptation here. A bronze statue of Welles stands in the square. Essaouira's medina retains the atmospheric quality that drew him in the 1940s.
The Ancient Labyrinth on Screen
Fes el-Bali medina streets
The Bourne Ultimatum, Inception (inspiration), Spectre chase inspiration
The world's largest car-free urban area provides an atmospheric maze of narrow alleys, covered souks, and ancient buildings. Directors use Fes to represent historical cities from across the Islamic world and beyond.
Chouara Tannery
Various documentaries, Mission: Impossible visual references
The medieval tannery with its colorful dye vats has appeared in countless films and documentaries. View from the surrounding leather shop terraces for the iconic overhead perspective seen in travel films.
Bou Inania Madrasa
Period dramas, historical documentaries
The exquisite Marinid-era theological school with carved stucco, zellige tilework, and cedar woodwork provides an authentic medieval Islamic setting that has featured in numerous period productions.
Endless Desert Epics
Erg Chebbi (Merzouga)
The Mummy, Sahara (2005), Prince of Persia, Spectre desert scenes
The towering orange dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga reach 150 meters and have doubled for deserts across the Middle East and North Africa in dozens of productions. Accessible via camel trek or 4x4.
Zagora & Draa Valley
Lawrence of Arabia, Babel, The Hills Have Eyes
The vast, flat desert plains and dramatic gorges south of Ouarzazate provided the sweeping landscape shots for Lawrence of Arabia. The region remains largely unchanged since filming in the 1960s.
Todra & Dades Gorges
Various adventure films, car commercials
The 300-meter canyon walls of Todra Gorge and the winding road through Dades Gorge have been featured in adventure films and high-end automotive commercials seeking dramatic natural backdrops.
The Red City on Film
Jemaa el-Fna & medina
John Wick: Chapter 3, Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation, Inception
The chaotic energy of Jemaa el-Fna and the narrow medina alleys feature prominently in John Wick 3, where Keanu Reeves fights through the souks. The square's snake charmers and food stalls create instant cinematic atmosphere.
Royal Mansour & luxury riads
Sex and the City 2, Spectre (interior inspiration)
Marrakech's luxury hotels and traditional riads have served as exotic backdrops for both film productions and fashion shoots. The city's blend of traditional architecture and modern luxury is irresistible to filmmakers.
Bahia Palace & Ben Youssef
Period dramas, music videos, fashion campaigns
The ornate courtyards of Bahia Palace and the geometric perfection of Ben Youssef Madrasa provide ready-made film sets of extraordinary beauty. Both are open to visitors from 20-70 MAD.
Cinema History & Rick's Cafe
Rick's Cafe
Inspired by Casablanca (1942) - though the film was shot in Hollywood
This restaurant recreates the atmosphere of the fictional Rick's Cafe Americain from the 1942 classic. Despite the film never being shot in Morocco, this lovingly designed tribute has become Casablanca's most famous tourist attraction. Reservations recommended.
Hassan II Mosque
Various documentaries, aerial establishing shots
Africa's largest mosque, sitting dramatically on the Atlantic coastline, appears in numerous documentaries and as an establishing shot for films set in Morocco. Guided interior tours are available for non-Muslims.
Art Deco Quartier Habous
Period dramas set in colonial North Africa
The French-built Art Deco districts and the planned new medina (Quartier Habous) provide a unique 1930s-era backdrop used in productions depicting colonial-era North Africa.
From 1960s epics to modern blockbusters, these are the most notable productions that chose Morocco as their filming destination.
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Director: David Lean | Locations: Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou, Zagora
The film that established Morocco as a filming destination. Peter O'Toole's epic was largely shot across southern Morocco.
Gladiator (2000)
Director: Ridley Scott | Locations: Atlas Studios, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate desert
Russell Crowe's Oscar-winning epic built a full colosseum replica at Atlas Studios. The slave market scenes used Ait Ben Haddou.
Game of Thrones (2013-2019)
Director: Various | Locations: Ait Ben Haddou (Yunkai), Essaouira (Astapor), Atlas Studios
Seasons 3-6 filmed extensively in Morocco. Daenerys's conquest of the slave cities was filmed at real Moroccan locations.
The Mummy (1999)
Director: Stephen Sommers | Locations: Erfoud, Erg Chebbi, Atlas Studios
Brendan Fraser's adventure classic used the Sahara desert near Erfoud and Merzouga for its Egyptian desert sequences.
Inception (2010)
Director: Christopher Nolan | Locations: Tangier medina streets
The narrow alleys of Tangier's medina provided the labyrinthine setting for dream-world sequences in Nolan's masterpiece.
John Wick: Chapter 3 (2019)
Director: Chad Stahelski | Locations: Marrakech medina, Essaouira, Sahara desert
Keanu Reeves's fight sequences through the Marrakech souks and desert scenes brought Morocco's action-film potential to a new generation.
Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation (2015)
Director: Christopher McQuarrie | Locations: Marrakech, Rabat
Tom Cruise's motorcycle chase through Marrakech and key scenes in Rabat showcased Morocco's modern and historical sides.
Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
Director: Ridley Scott | Locations: Atlas Studios, Essaouira, Ouarzazate
Scott returned to Morocco for this Crusades epic, building massive Jerusalem sets at Atlas Studios and using Essaouira's walls.
Spectre (2015)
Director: Sam Mendes | Locations: Tangier, Oujda, Erfoud
Daniel Craig's Bond installment featured a dramatic desert train sequence filmed in eastern Morocco and scenes in Tangier.
Babel (2006)
Director: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu | Locations: Taguenzalt, Ouarzazate region
Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett's Oscar-nominated drama filmed its Morocco segments in remote Berber villages south of Ouarzazate.
With a 20% government tax rebate on production spending, experienced local crews, and world-class studio infrastructure, Morocco remains one of the top filming destinations globally. Streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon, and Apple TV+ continue to produce original content in the country, ensuring a steady stream of new productions and locations for film fans to discover.
Practical advice to get the most out of your Morocco film-location tour, from timing and transport to what to bring.
Hire a local guide at Ait Ben Haddou
Licensed guides (from 100 MAD) know exactly where each film was shot and can point out camera angles and set pieces. They bring the locations to life with behind-the-scenes stories.
Visit Atlas Studios in the morning
Morning light is best for photography, and you avoid the afternoon heat. Tours last 1-2 hours. Some sets may be closed during active productions, so arrive early for the best experience.
Combine Ait Ben Haddou with Ouarzazate
The two sites are only 30 km apart. A full day allows you to tour Atlas Studios in the morning and Ait Ben Haddou in the afternoon golden hour, the best light for photography.
Book day trips from Marrakech
Marrakech to Ouarzazate is a scenic 4-hour drive over the Tizi n'Tichka pass. Day trips from Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Atlas Studios start from 500 MAD per person including transport.
Bring water and sun protection
Ouarzazate and the desert regions are extremely hot from May to September. Temperatures can exceed 45 degrees Celsius. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person and wear sun protection.
Check for active filming before visiting
Atlas Studios and CLA Studios occasionally close sections during active productions. Check with your hotel or tour operator before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Allow extra time in Essaouira
Beyond the Game of Thrones locations, Essaouira is a beautiful coastal town worth exploring for 1-2 days. The seafood, art galleries, and laid-back atmosphere make it a perfect filming-tour addition.
Download offline maps for remote locations
Many desert filming locations have limited cell signal. Download Google Maps or Maps.me offline data for the Ouarzazate, Zagora, and Merzouga regions before your trip.
Organized tours take the hassle out of visiting remote film locations. These popular options cover the major sites with knowledgeable guides. Prices may vary by season.
Ouarzazate Film Studio Day Tour
Visit Atlas Studios and CLA Studios with a knowledgeable guide who explains the history of each set and the productions filmed there.
Ait Ben Haddou & Studios Combo
Morning at Atlas Studios followed by an afternoon at Ait Ben Haddou with a guide who covers both film history and the UNESCO heritage of the ksar.
Marrakech to Ouarzazate Day Trip
Scenic drive over the High Atlas via Tizi n'Tichka pass, Atlas Studios tour, Ait Ben Haddou visit, and return to Marrakech by evening.
Game of Thrones Morocco Tour
Multi-day tour covering Essaouira (Astapor), Ait Ben Haddou (Yunkai), Atlas Studios interior sets, and desert locations used in the series.
Desert Film Locations Expedition
Visit The Mummy and Lawrence of Arabia desert locations near Erfoud, Merzouga, and Zagora with overnight stays in desert camps.
Booking tip: Prices listed are approximate and may vary by season. Private tours cost more but offer flexibility with timing and itinerary. Group tours are more affordable and typically depart early morning. Book through your hotel or a licensed tour agency in Marrakech or Ouarzazate for the most reliable service.
Make the most of your visit with these photography tips specific to Morocco's most famous film locations.
Golden hour at Ait Ben Haddou
The late afternoon sun bathes the mud-brick ksar in warm golden light, perfectly recreating the cinematic look from Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Cross the river for the reflection shot.
Recreate iconic angles
Knowledgeable local guides can position you at the exact camera angles used in famous films. Ask for the “Gladiator view” or the “Game of Thrones shot” at each location.
Desert sunrise photography
For Sahara film locations like The Mummy's Erg Chebbi, wake before dawn. The transition from blue to gold across the dunes creates the epic desert shots that defined these films.
Studio photography rules
Photography is generally permitted at Atlas Studios during tours. However, certain areas may be restricted during active productions. Professional video equipment may require additional permissions.
Avoid peak tour groups
Large tour buses arrive at Ait Ben Haddou between 10 AM and 2 PM. Visit early morning or late afternoon for crowd-free photography and better light conditions.
Essaouira rampart angles
The Game of Thrones Astapor scenes were filmed along the Skala du Port. Walk the full length of the ramparts for the best angles matching the show, with cannons and ocean as your backdrop.
The most famous “Moroccan” film was never actually filmed in Morocco. Here is the real story and what to see in Casablanca today.
The 1942 classic Casablanca, starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, is one of the most celebrated films in cinema history. Set during World War II in the Moroccan city, it tells the story of Rick Blaine's nightclub and the wartime intrigue surrounding it. Despite its title and setting, not a single frame was shot in Morocco — the entire production took place on sound stages at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California.
However, Casablanca has embraced its cinematic legacy. In 2004, American expatriate Kathy Kriger opened Rick's Cafe in the old medina of Casablanca, recreating the ambiance of the fictional nightclub with Art Deco furnishings, a curved bar, and a piano player. The restaurant has become one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner.
The real Casablanca offers its own cinematic experiences: the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque perched on the Atlantic, the Art Deco architecture of the Ville Nouvelle, and the Quartier Habous with its planned medina built during the French colonial period.
Located at 248 Boulevard Sour Jdid in the old medina, Rick's Cafe serves Moroccan and international cuisine. Dinner reservations are essential. The decor faithfully recreates the film's atmosphere, and live piano music plays nightly. Main courses range from 150-300 MAD. A visit pairs well with exploring Casablanca's Art Deco heritage and the nearby Hassan II Mosque.
Everything you need to know about visiting Morocco's film locations.
Over 100 major films have been shot in Morocco, including Gladiator (2000), Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Mummy (1999), Inception (2010), John Wick: Chapter 3 (2019), Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation (2015), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), The Jewel of the Nile (1985), Babel (2006), Spectre (2015), and Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra (2002). Morocco's diverse landscapes, skilled local crews, and competitive costs make it one of the world's most popular filming destinations.
Game of Thrones filmed extensively in Morocco during Seasons 3 and beyond. Ait Ben Haddou served as the slave city of Yunkai. Essaouira's ramparts and harbour became Astapor, where Daenerys acquires the Unsullied. The ancient city walls of Essaouira stood in for the fictional city. Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate was used for interior sets and additional scenes. You can visit all of these locations independently or through guided Game of Thrones tours from Marrakech.
Ridley Scott filmed key scenes of Gladiator (2000) in and around Ouarzazate, Morocco. Ait Ben Haddou served as the backdrop for the slave market and the city of Zucchabar. A massive Roman colosseum replica was constructed at Atlas Studios for the gladiatorial combat sequences. The desert landscapes around Ouarzazate doubled for the Roman province of North Africa. Sets from the film can still be seen at Atlas Studios today.
Yes, Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate is open to visitors daily. Guided tours last approximately 1-2 hours and cost from 60 MAD per person. You can explore sets from Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and other productions. Some sets are dismantled between productions, so what you see depends on timing. CLA Studios, also in Ouarzazate, offers similar tours. The best time to visit is morning for good light and to avoid afternoon heat. Photography is permitted throughout the tour.
No, the classic 1942 film Casablanca starring Humphrey Bogart was filmed entirely on sound stages at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California. Not a single scene was shot in Morocco. However, Casablanca has embraced its cinematic connection. Rick's Cafe, a restaurant inspired by the movie, opened in 2004 in Casablanca's old medina and recreates the ambiance of the fictional nightclub. It has become one of the city's most popular tourist attractions.
Film location tours in Morocco can be booked through local tour operators in Ouarzazate, Marrakech, and Essaouira. Day trips from Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Atlas Studios typically cost from 500-800 MAD per person including transport and guide. Multi-day tours covering multiple filming locations across the country start from 2,500 MAD. Book through licensed guides at your hotel, reputable tour agencies, or arrange private transport with a driver-guide. The best tours combine film history with genuine cultural context.
Morocco became a filming hub for several reasons: its extraordinary landscape diversity (desert, mountains, coast, ancient cities) can double for dozens of countries. The country offers 300+ days of sunshine per year ensuring reliable shooting conditions. Production costs are significantly lower than Hollywood or European studios. Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate is the largest film studio in the world by area. Morocco also has experienced local crews, supportive government film incentives including a 20% tax rebate, and well-established production infrastructure built over decades of international filmmaking.
Besides Game of Thrones, numerous TV shows have filmed in Morocco including Prison Break (Season 5), Homeland, The Bible miniseries, Tyrant, Jack Ryan, The Spy (Netflix), Warrior Nun (Netflix), Altered Carbon, Penny Dreadful: City of Angels, and The Night Manager. Streaming services have increased Morocco's popularity as a filming destination, with Netflix, Amazon, and Apple TV+ all producing content there. The country's versatile landscapes and established infrastructure continue to attract major television productions.
Key facts to remember when planning your Morocco film-location trip.
Atlas Studios
World's largest film studio. Open daily, tours from 60 MAD, 1-2 hours
Ait Ben Haddou
UNESCO site, 20+ films, free entry, hire guide from 100 MAD
Best Season
Spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov) for comfortable temperatures
Day Trips
Marrakech to Ouarzazate day trips from 500-800 MAD per person
Explore more guides to help plan your Morocco film-location adventure.
Complete directory of all major filming locations across Morocco, organized by production and region.
Full travel guide to Ouarzazate, the gateway to Atlas Studios and the Sahara desert.
The most photogenic locations across Morocco with timing tips and photography advice.
Explore the rich history behind Morocco's kasbahs, medinas, and ancient trade routes.
The must-visit landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural experiences across Morocco.
From ancient kasbahs to vast desert dunes, Morocco's film locations offer an unforgettable journey through cinema history. Start planning your film-location tour today.