Lionsgate Unveils 'Now You See Me: Now You Don't' Filming Locations in Abu Dhabi

Lionsgate's New Film Shines in Abu Dhabi

The allure of cinematic magic is set to captivate audiences as Lionsgate's Now You See Me: Now You Don't makes its mark in Abu Dhabi. With filming concluding after 13 thrilling days, the excitement is palpable among the local residents who caught glimpses of their beloved city transforming into a major movie set.

This much-anticipated sequel features an impressive ensemble cast, including Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, and Rosamund Pike, alongside legendary actor Morgan Freeman. The film takes advantage of some of Abu Dhabi's most iconic landmarks for unforgettable backdrop scenes. Locations such as the breathtaking Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Bridge, and the stunning Liwa Desert showcase the emirate's beauty and allure on screen.

As anticipation builds for the movie's release later this year, fans can look forward to familiar spots like CLYMB and Ferrari World Yas Island, Yas Marina Circuit, and many bustling streets within the capital where adrenaline-pumping stunts took place. The incorporation of Abu Dhabi's vibrant culture and unique landscape is poised to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The film’s production benefited greatly from the local workforce, employing 175 talents from the area, some of whom were trained through the Abu Dhabi Creative Media Authority's (CMA) Creative Lab initiative. Six aspiring filmmakers from the UAE secured internships, gaining invaluable on-set experience while contributing to an internationally recognized project. Matt Leonetti, President of Physical Production at Lionsgate, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing that films in the Now You See Me franchise take audiences on thrilling global adventures.

Mohamed Dobay, acting director-general of the CMA, emphasized the significance of Abu Dhabi as a premier filming location. He highlighted the collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) and key partners like Miral Destinations, which played a vital role in showcasing essential filming locations and providing logistical support.

Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations, shared pride in facilitating the movie's production and reiterated the importance of Yas Island as a destination for high-caliber entertainment. As a testament to past successes, the collaboration aims to continue establishing the emirate as a hub for global productions.

The film, directed by the renowned Ruben Fleischer, known for hits like Zombieland, combines the efforts of a skilled team including scribes Seth Grahame-Smith and Michael Lesslie, with a story grounded in characters created by Boaz Yakin and Edward Ricourt. Lionsgate aims not only to deliver an engaging narrative but also to spotlight Abu Dhabi's commercial prospects.

As Now You See Me: Now You Don’t prepares for its theatrical release in November, it joins a reputable list of over 180 significant productions that have harnessed the scenic diversity and technical facilities UAE has to offer. Past films include major blockbusters like Dune, Fast and Furious, and the Mission Impossible franchise, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s growing stature in the global film industry.

As fans await the film’s launch, they can look forward to seeing their beloved landmarks brought to life in new and thrilling ways, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s role as a vivid cinematic backdrop in the world of entertainment.