01Studio
Atlas Studios
One of the largest film studios in the world by surface area, on the edge of town. Guided visits walk you past standing sets — Egyptian temples, city gates and aircraft props — left from productions shot here over the years.
Ouarzazate, MoroccoConcierge · 7 Days · 9–21H GMT+1
Things to do · Ouarzazate
Things to do in Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate has been a hub of international film-making for decades, earning the nickname 'Ouallywood'. Its desert light, kasbah backdrops and big studio lots have stood in for ancient Egypt, Rome, Tibet and biblical lands. Here is what to see for film fans visiting the city.
6 experiences
The best of Ouarzazate
02Studio
CLA Studios
The other major studio complex near Ouarzazate, also used for large international productions. Between them, the studios have supported films from Lawrence of Arabia and The Last Temptation of Christ to Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven and Game of Thrones.
03Background
Why Ouarzazate?
The region offers reliable sunshine and clear light, dramatic desert and kasbah scenery, and a long-established base of local crews, extras and set-builders — which is why studios and location shoots have clustered here since the 1980s.
04Locations
Aït Ben Haddou as a location
The nearby UNESCO ksar of Aït Ben Haddou is the region's most filmed location, used for Gladiator, Game of Thrones and many others. Studio visits pair naturally with a trip there.
05Locations
Taourirt Kasbah in town
In Ouarzazate itself, the restored Glaoui-era Taourirt Kasbah has featured on screen and is worth visiting for its maze of earthen rooms and the wider story of the powerful Glaoui family.
06Practical
Practical tips
Studio tours are guided and take around an hour; check opening times locally as they vary. The sets are open-air and hot at midday — morning visits are more comfortable, and combine well with Aït Ben Haddou the same day.
Frequently asked
Can you visit the film studios in Ouarzazate?
Yes. Atlas Studios and CLA Studios near Ouarzazate both offer guided visits, taking you past standing sets and props from international productions filmed in the region.
Why is Ouarzazate called Ouallywood?
Ouarzazate has been a major film-making base for decades, thanks to its desert light, kasbah scenery and experienced local crews, hosting countless international productions — earning it the nickname 'Ouallywood'.
What movies were filmed in Ouarzazate?
Productions linked to Ouarzazate and nearby Aït Ben Haddou include Lawrence of Arabia, The Last Temptation of Christ, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, The Mummy and Game of Thrones, among many others.
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