“Desert Warrior,” the highly anticipated action-thriller set in 7th century Arabia, will make its world premiere at the Zurich Film Festival on 28 September, 2025. This epic production, filmed entirely in Saudi Arabia, promises to transport audiences to a land of warring tribes and legendary heroes.
MBC Studios, the production powerhouse behind MBC Group, joined forces with US-based JB Pictures and AGC Studios to bring this ambitious project to life. The partnership combines Middle Eastern storytelling with Hollywood production expertise.
The film features an international ensemble led by Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, and Academy Award winner Sir Ben Kingsley, alongside Sharlto Copley, Ghassan Massoud, Sami Bouajila, Lamis Ammar, and Geza Rohrig. British director Rupert Wyatt, known for Rise of the Planet of the Apes and The Mosquito Coast, co-wrote the screenplay with Erica Beeney, David Self, and Academy Award nominee Gary Ross. Jeremy Bolt, producer of the Resident Evil franchise, led production for JB Pictures alongside AGC Studios and MBC Studios.
Breathtaking Saudi Locations
Production took place in 2021 at stunning locations across Saudi Arabia, including Neom and Tabuk which provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s ancient Arabian setting. The production utilized the diverse landscapes of the Kingdom to create an authentic world.
The story unfolds in a land divided by warring tribes, with princess Hind, portrayed by Aiysha Hart, defying the powerful Sassanid Emperor Kisra, played by Sir Ben Kingsley. Forced to flee into the desert with her father King Numan, the princess embarks on a dangerous journey.
As mercenaries led by Jalabzeen (Sharlto Copley) pursue them relentlessly, Hind and her father must place their trust in a mysterious bandit, played by Anthony Mackie. This unlikely alliance becomes crucial for their survival against overwhelming odds.
The narrative builds to an epic climax with the Battle of Ze Qar, as this monumental confrontation reshapes the destiny of the entire Arabian Peninsula. Princess Hind’s journey from fugitive to leader unites fractured tribes against the might of the Sassanid Empire.
A Milestone for Saudi Cinema
MBC expressed immense pride in this groundbreaking production. “The amount of hard work, creativity, and passion poured into this project is truly commendable,” said a spokesperson. “It reflects in every frame of this extraordinary film.”
“Desert Warrior” joins a growing list of major productions filmed in Saudi Arabia. This includes Adil El-Arbi and Bilall Fallah’s action thriller “7 Dogs.” The $40 million project from the “Bad Boys for Life” team was shot at Al-Hisn Big Time Studios in Riyadh, with additional filming at Riyadh Boulevard.
Interestingly, Riyadh’s versatile landscapes have served as stand-ins for several international cities in various productions, including Mumbai and Shanghai. This demonstrates the Kingdom’s growing appeal as a filming location for global productions.
Saudi Arabia’s Growing Film Industry
“Desert Warrior” joins a growing list of productions filmed in Saudi Arabia, including Adil El-Arbi and Bilall Fallah’s action thriller “7 Dogs,” a $40 million project, produced by the team behind “Bad Boys for Life,” was filmed at Al-Hisn Big Time Studios in Riyadh, with additional scenes shot at Riyadh Boulevard. The city also serves as a stand-in for international locations, including Mumbai and Shanghai.
“7 Dogs” features Egyptian stars Karim Abdel Aziz and Ahmed Ezz, known for their roles in popular films like “The Blue Elephant” and “Kira & El Gin” and other regional hits, these stars add depth to the international cast, highlighting the pan-Arab appeal of this ambitious production.
As the Zurich Film Festival approaches, anticipation builds for this epic tale of courage, unity, and destiny. “Desert Warrior” promises to showcase Saudi Arabia’s cinematic potential while delivering an unforgettable action experience for global audiences.
