Where Was Dune Filmed (Best Locations to Visit)
All sci-fi fans know that Dune walked so Star Wars could run. This beyond-epic space opera shaped the genre of what we call science fiction. With six books, released in 1965, Dune Saga introduced us to the mesmerizing sand landscapes of planet Arrakis. If you’re wondering where was Dune filmed, of course we got you covered 🙂
It was only a matter of time before the books were adapted into a movie, and surely in 1984, Dune was shown on the big screens. Almost 60 years after the book’s creation, the story is still equally captivating. So, it is no surprise why the books were adapted for the big screen once more by none other than the legendary Denis Villeneuve.
As always, you can find the map of all film sets at the end of the article.
Table of Contents
1. Dune Filming Locations in Europe
Origo Studios, Budapest, Hungary
Origo Studios, located in Budapest, Hungary, is a prominent film studio that has made significant contributions to the Hungarian and international film industry. Established in 2007, it is a state-of-the-art facility that offers a wide range of services for film and television productions. Origo Studios was a key Dune filming location, providing the expansive sets and advanced technical capabilities needed to bring the vast and intricate world of Dune to the screen.
Another famous project by Villeneuve filmed at Origo Studios was “Blade Runner 2049” (2017), the sequel to Ridley Scott’s iconic science fiction film “Blade Runner” (1982). The Origo Studios successfully brought Villeneuve’s visions to life, contributing to the film’s immersive and futuristic aesthetic.
Kinnaklova,Vestland, Norway
Norway is a country of otherworldly nature where CGI becomes utterly redundant. If you wondered whether a strange rocky formation on Caladan is real, the answer is yes. The filming took place at the stunning mountain cliff of Kinn Island, also known as the Kinnaklova. Namely, Kinn Island is an uninhabited island situated in the municipality of Flora in Vestland County.
If you wish to visit Kinn Island, the closest town is Florø, approximately 10 kilometers away. To reach this Dune shooting location, you can take a boat or ferry from Florø’s harbor. While Kinn Island doesn’t offer organized tours, you can explore the island independently. The mountain, Kinnaklova, is a favorite among hiking enthusiasts. Also, nearby is the historical Kinn Church, which dates back to the 12th century.
Myresanden, Stadlandet Peninsula, Norway
Next on our list of Dune filming locations is another stunning place in Norway, the Stadlandet Peninsula. Or, to be more precise, Myresanden. Both of these Dune shooting locations helped create the dramatic scenery of the planet Caladan, the ancestral home to the House Atreides. The planet is known for its landscapes of untamed ocean waters and striking cliffs. And what better place on Earth to depict such a planet than Norway, with its otherworldly fjords?
In the movie, we can see Myresanden in the background during a scene where Paul looks at the ocean before departing for Arrakis. Namely, Myresanden is a vast sandy beach beneath the fjords in the Stadlandet Peninsula, also known as Stad. Interestingly, its name means “the land of places”. Coincidence? You decide!
2. Dune Filming Locations in the Middle East
Liwa Oasis, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The Liwa Oasis, located in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, is a vast oasis area in the heart of the Arabian desert. The location provided many visually striking scenes, especially those of the expansive desert with sandworms. Apart from depicting Arrakis, Star Wars fans will recognize Liwa as the sand planet of Jakku.
Reaching Liwa Oasis is relatively easy by road from Abu Dhabi or nearby cities. The journey takes approximately two to three hours, depending on the starting point. There are many activities to try here, the most popular being dune bashing, quad biking, and camel riding. With its captivating dunes, picturesque palm groves, and unique Bedouin history, visiting Liwa Oasis will be an unforgettable experience.
Wadi Rum Desert, Jordan
Wadi Rum, located in southern Jordan, is a sandstone valley known for its vast dunes. So, if you have a movie called Dune, what is the best place to film it at? Hopefully, the producers must have had the same opinion and decided to shoot the iconic scenes in this amazing location. Of course, Wadi Rum has already been a star in many renowned movies, such as “Lawrence of Arabia,” “The Martian,” “Rogue One,” and “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.” In the Dune movie, Wadi Rum depicts the sandy planet Arrakis, the home of the Fremen tribe.
Whether you are a Dune fan or not, visiting Wadi Rum Desert in Jordan offers captivating experiences. From the nearby ancient city of Petra to the Red Sea in Aqaba, you can explore and enjoy stunning sights. The best way to reach Wadi Rum is by taking a guided tour. We promise an otherworldly experience!
3. Dune Filming Locations in Mexico
Churubusco Studios, Mexico City, Mexico
Of course, we couldn’t forget the place where the first Dune scene was shot. And we are talking about the “original” Dune movie directed by David Lynch in 1984, featuring Kyle MacLachlan and Sting. Churubusco Studios, located in Mexico City, Mexico, is a historic film studio that has played a significant role in the Mexican film industry. Established in 1945, it is one of the oldest and most renowned studios in Latin America.
Some of the most famous films shot here include “Amores Perros,” directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, and “Y Tu Mamá También,” directed by Alfonso Cuarón. Operating to this day, Churubusco continues to be a hub for film and television production. Visitors are welcome and can choose between many guided tours providing insights into the filmmaking process and the studio’s rich history.
Teotihuacana Complex, Mexico
Although filming the movie Dune did not take place at the Teotihuacan Complex, we cannot ignore its uncanny resemblance to the Arrakeen Palace. After all, this remarkable structure already inspired the great director in creating the movie Blade Runner 49. The Teotihuacan Complex, located near Mexico City, is an ancient Mesoamerican archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Teotihuacan Complex is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Known as the “City of the Gods,” Teotihuacan is believed to have been established around 100 BCE and reached its peak between 150 and 450 AD. It is famous for its impressive pyramids, such as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, along with other significant structures.
