Desert Warrior, a Saudi-backed historical epic, will make its world premiere at the Zurich Film Festival on September 28. With a star-heavy cast and major support from the Saudi Film Commission, this one’s not your typical sword-and-sandals flick. It brings Hollywood-level polish to a Middle Eastern story filmed on home turf.
What is Desert Warrior about?
Set in 7th-century Arabia, Desert Warrior is packed with tribal feuds, political power plays, and dusty desert chases.
- Aiysha Hart plays Princess Hind, who refuses to be a pawn for the invading Sassanid Empire
- Sir Ben Kingsley is the ruthless Emperor Kisra
- Anthony Mackie joins as a mysterious bandit who might be more hero than outlaw
- The cast also includes Ghassan Massoud, Sharlto Copley, Sami Bouajila, and Lamis Ammar
The film leads up to the historic Battle of Ze Qar, a real conflict that helped shape the Arabian Peninsula. It’s one of the first major cinematic takes on the region’s early history, and it’s being told with Hollywood flair and Saudi backing.
Directed by Rupert Wyatt
Rupert Wyatt, best known for Rise of the Planet of the Apes, is behind the camera. He also co-wrote the screenplay with Erica Beeney (Captive State) and David Self (Road to Perdition).
- Wyatt brings big-movie experience to the table
- Screenwriters have strong Hollywood credentials
- Film aims to blend action, drama, and historical spectacle
Having a director like Wyatt on board signals the film isn’t just targeting local audiences—it’s aiming for the international stage.
Filmed in NEOM and Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
Desert Warrior was shot entirely in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, using the dramatic landscapes of NEOM and Tabuk as its backdrop.
- NEOM is part of Saudi’s futuristic mega-projects
- Tabuk offers rugged, cinematic landscapes
- Local crews and infrastructure helped bring the film to life
Saudi Arabia’s Film Commission backed the production through its Cash Rebate Program. This is part of a broader push to position the Kingdom as a global filming destination.
Produced by MBC STUDIOS and JB Pictures
MBC STUDIOS, in partnership with Jeremy Bolt’s JB Pictures, is leading production. AGC International is handling worldwide sales.
- MBC STUDIOS is growing its footprint in cinema and streaming
- Jeremy Bolt is best known for the Resident Evil franchise
- AGC International adds global distribution muscle
This isn’t just a regional project—it’s aiming for international cinema releases and streaming platforms.
Why this matters for Saudi film
Desert Warrior isn’t just about a princess and a war. It’s a flex by Saudi Arabia’s growing film industry.
- Taps into international talent while highlighting local stories
- Boosts Saudi Arabia’s position in global film production
- Supports national goals like Vision 2030 and the Quality of Life Program
By premiering in Zurich, the film is signalling that stories from the Gulf can stand alongside global blockbusters.
When is Desert Warrior premiering?
The world premiere is set for 28 September 2025 at the Zurich Film Festival.
Where was Desert Warrior filmed?
It was shot in NEOM and Tabuk, both located in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Who stars in Desert Warrior?
Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, Sir Ben Kingsley, Sharlto Copley, and others headline the cast.
