Dune Filming Locations: 5 Visually Stunning Places to Have Your Own Photo and Video Shoot at

Norway’s Lofoten Islands boast rugged and otherworldly landscapes that served as a primary filming location for “Dune”. The dramatic mountains, fjords, and barren stretches of land in this remote archipelago provided an ideal backdrop for portraying the harsh desert planet of Arrakis. Notably, the Hålogaland Bridge, spanning across a vast expanse of water, features prominently in the film, creating an awe-inspiring setting reminiscent of the vast desert expanses seen in “Dune”. The juxtaposition of the icy waters and stark cliffs against the barren terrain of Arrakis offers a visually striking contrast that captures the essence of the film’s desert landscapes.

Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon, is a vast desert located in southern Jordan, and it served as another key filming location for “Dune”. Its surreal and desolate landscape, characterized by towering sandstone cliffs, rolling sand dunes, and rocky terrain, closely resembles the harsh desert environment of Arrakis. Visitors to Wadi Rum can embark on guided tours to explore its otherworldly landscapes, experiencing the same breathtaking vistas that served as the backdrop for “Dune”. The shifting sands and dramatic rock formations of Wadi Rum provide an immersive experience, transporting visitors into the heart of the desert planet depicted in the film.

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, served as another essential location among the Dune filming locations. The vast desert landscapes surrounding the city offered an ideal setting for the expansive desert scenes depicted in the film. From the towering sand dunes of the Empty Quarter to the rocky outcrops of the Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi’s diverse desert environments effectively captured the essence of Arrakis, the desert planet central to the “Dune” universe. Visitors to Abu Dhabi can explore these vast desert landscapes, marveling at the same vistas that graced the silver screen in the epic sci-fi saga.

Family photoshoot by Marija, Localgrapher in Abu Dhabi

Tunisia, with its vast desert landscapes and unique geological formations, played a significant role as one of Dune filming locations for earlier adaptations of “Dune”. The desert regions of Tunisia, including the Sahara Desert and the Chott el Jerid salt flats, provided the perfect backdrop for portraying the arid and inhospitable environment of Arrakis. Travelers to Tunisia can venture into these iconic filming locations, immersing themselves in the same otherworldly landscapes that captured the imagination of audiences in “Dune”. The expansive deserts and mesmerizing salt flats of Tunisia offer a glimpse into the harsh yet captivating world of Arrakis.

Chile’s Atacama Desert, renowned as one of the driest places on Earth, served as a filming location for certain scenes in the latest adaptation of “Dune”. Its lunar-like landscape, characterized by vast salt flats, rugged mountains, and expansive sand dunes, provided a striking backdrop for the film’s desert planet setting. Visitors to the Atacama Desert can witness its otherworldly beauty firsthand, imagining themselves traversing the sands of Arrakis. The surreal and desolate landscapes of the Atacama Desert offer a glimpse into the alien environments depicted in “Dune”, making it a fitting location for capturing the essence of the desert planet on film.

• Flowing Tunic Dress: A loose-fitting tunic dress in earthy tones like sand, tan, or olive green. The flowing silhouette mimics the desert winds and provides comfort for long journeys across the dunes.
• Wide-brimmed Hat: A wide-brimmed hat in a neutral color like beige or brown to shield from the harsh desert sun. Opt for one with a distressed finish for a rugged, nomadic look.
• Statement Sandal Boots: Sturdy sandal boots with strappy details and chunky soles, reminiscent of the footwear worn by the characters in “Dune”. Choose a pair in a weathered leather finish for added authenticity.
• Accessories: Layered pendant necklaces featuring desert-inspired motifs like sunbursts or sand dunes. Complete the look with leather wrist cuffs and oversized sunglasses for a touch of modernity.

Proposal photoshoot by Michal, Localgrapher in Maspalomas

• Fitted Utility Jumpsuit: A fitted jumpsuit in a durable fabric like canvas or twill, featuring cargo pockets and utilitarian details. Opt for a muted color palette such as khaki or charcoal gray for a rugged, warrior-inspired aesthetic.
• Structured Vest or Harness: Layer a structured vest or harness over the jumpsuit to add dimension and visual interest. Look for pieces with buckle and strap details reminiscent of armor worn by the Fremen warriors in “Dune”.
• Combat Boots: Lace-up combat boots with a rugged sole and distressed finish, perfect for trekking through the desert terrain. Choose a pair with metal hardware accents for an edgy touch.
• Statement Belt: Cinch the waist with a wide statement belt featuring intricate metalwork or desert-inspired motifs like snakes or sandworms. This adds a bold focal point to the outfit while accentuating your silhouette.

• Flowing Maxi Dress: A flowing maxi dress in luxurious fabrics like silk or chiffon, adorned with desert-inspired prints or embellishments. Opt for jewel tones such as deep burgundy or sapphire blue to evoke the richness of royal attire.
• Embroidered Shawl or Cape: Drape an intricately embroidered shawl or cape over the shoulders for an added layer of elegance. Look for designs featuring desert flora and fauna motifs like palm trees or scorpions.
• Jeweled Sandals: Embellished sandals with beading, sequins, or metallic accents, reminiscent of the opulent footwear worn by the nobility in “Dune”. Choose a pair with a low heel for comfort and ease of movement.
• Statement Headpiece: Adorn the hair with a statement headpiece inspired by desert crowns or tiaras, featuring intricate metalwork and sparkling gemstones. This adds a regal touch to the ensemble and completes the royal desert queen look.

Solo photoshoot by Rina, Localgrapher in Miami

• Etsy: Explore the vast array of independent sellers on Etsy offering handmade jewelry inspired by “Dune”. Search for keywords like “Arrakis jewelry”, “sandworm necklace”, or “Fremen-inspired bracelets” to discover unique pieces crafted by artisans who share your love for the sci-fi epic.
• Geeky Jewelry Websites: Visit websites specializing in geeky and fandom-inspired jewelry, where you can find a curated selection of Dune-themed accessories. Look for online stores that cater to fans of science fiction and fantasy franchises, offering a wide range of jewelry options inspired by iconic characters, symbols, and locations from the Dune universe.
• Official Movie Merchandise Stores: Check out official movie merchandise stores associated with the “Dune” film franchise, where you can find licensed jewelry collections featuring designs inspired by the film’s characters and motifs. These stores often collaborate with reputable jewelry brands to create high-quality pieces that capture the essence of the Dune universe, making them perfect for your photoshoot.

• Luxury Jewelry Houses: Explore the collections of luxury jewelry brands known for their celestial or mystical aesthetic, which often feature designs inspired by the wonders of the universe and ancient civilizations. Look for pieces crafted from precious metals and gemstones, adorned with celestial motifs like stars, moons, and constellations, creating a sense of cosmic elegance that resonates with the mystique of the Dune universe.
• Designer Collaborations: Keep an eye out for designer collaborations with high-end jewelry brands that draw inspiration from science fiction and fantasy themes. These collaborations often result in limited-edition collections featuring avant-garde designs that push the boundaries of conventional jewelry craftsmanship, offering statement pieces that exude sophistication and allure.
• Boutique Jewelry Salons: Visit boutique jewelry salons and ateliers that showcase unique and innovative jewelry creations from up-and-coming designers as well as established luxury brands. Explore their curated collections of fine jewelry inspired by the realms of imagination and mythology, where you can find exquisite pieces that capture the essence of the Dune universe with unparalleled craftsmanship and artistry.

• Independent Jewelry Designers: Explore the collections of independent jewelry designers who draw inspiration from desert landscapes and cultures. Look for designers known for their use of organic materials, earthy tones, and nature-inspired motifs, reflecting the spirit of Arrakis and the Fremen people.
• Desert-Inspired Collections: Seek out jewelry designers who have created specific collections inspired by desert environments and themes. Look for pieces featuring elements like sandstone textures, desert flora and fauna, and geometric patterns reminiscent of desert architecture. These designers often infuse their creations with a sense of adventure and wanderlust, making them ideal for a Dune-inspired photoshoot.
• Custom Jewelry Services: Consider working with a custom jewelry designer to create bespoke pieces tailored to your vision for the photoshoot. Collaborate with the designer to incorporate elements from the Dune universe, such as sandworm motifs, spice-inspired gemstones, or symbolic imagery representing the themes of power, destiny, and transformation found in the story. This personalized approach ensures that your jewelry complements the overall aesthetic of the photoshoot while reflecting your unique style and creativity.