
Movie & TV Filming Locations in Mecca, Makkah al Mukarramah, Saudi Arabia
1. Masjid al-Haram Film Set
Temporary set constructed for filming 'The Promise' (2005) in the holy city of Mecca.
- Unusual Architecture: Features temporary structures that replicate parts of Masjid al-Haram.
- Film Preservation: Provides an opportunity for visitors to witness the filming process within a sacred site.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrates respect for religious and cultural traditions during film production.
2. Mount Arafat Film Set
Temporary structure created for 'The Kingdom' (2007) at the site of Hajj's final prayer.
- Historic Significance: Simulates the atmosphere and sacredness of Mount Arafat during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
- Film Authenticity: Brings a level of realism to film scenes set at Mount Arafat.
- Temporary Construction: Shows the efforts made to minimize impact on the environment and sacred sites.
3. Meccan Street Scenes Filming Location
Locations used for filming 'Star Trek: Beyond' (2016) showcasing the unique architecture of Mecca.
- Architectural Diversity: Highlights the distinct and beautiful architecture found throughout Meccan streets.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows visitors to experience the daily life and culture of Mecca on film sets.
- Film Production Impact: Demonstrates the global interest in showcasing Meccan scenes in films.
4. Mina Film Set for 'The Promise'
Temporary set constructed for filming 'The Promise' (2005) at the site of Hajj's stoning ritual.
- Historical Symbolism: Represents the historical and religious significance of Mina during Hajj.
- Film Production Scale: Showcases the vast scale of film production required for recreating such a site.
- Respectful Representation: Ensures accurate and respectful portrayal of this sacred Hajj ritual in films.
5. Meccan Market Scenes Filming Location
Locations used for filming 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade' (1989) showcasing traditional markets.
- Cultural Exchange: Allows visitors to experience the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Meccan markets.
- Film Production Influence: Demonstrates the impact of film productions on shaping the world's perception of Mecca.
- Archaeological Connection: Connects to the archaeological and historical richness found in Meccan markets.
6. Meccan Mosque Filming Location
Location used for filming 'The Message' (1976) showcasing an architectural replica of the Kaaba.
- Religious Importance: Highlights the spiritual significance of the Kaaba in Islamic faith.
- Architectural Replication: Offers a glimpse into the architecture of the original mosque.
- Film Production Challenges: Demonstrates the difficulties faced in filming religious structures with respect.
7. Jabal al-Rahmah Film Set
Temporary set constructed for 'The Promise' (2005) at the Mount of Mercy in Mecca.
- Spiritual Significance: Represents the importance and holiness of Jabal al-Rahmah during Hajj.
- Film Set Construction: Showcases the efforts made to construct a temporary set at this sacred location.
- Historic Representation: Provides an accurate representation of Jabal al-Rahmah's significance in Islamic history.
8. Meccan Rooftop Filming Location
Location used for filming 'The Kingdom' (2007) showcasing the panoramic view of Mecca.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning views of the cityscape and Masjid al-Haram.
- Film Scene Authenticity: Enables accurate representation of scenes set on Meccan rooftops.
- Cultural Insight: Provides a unique insight into the life and culture of people living in Mecca.
9. Meccan Cemetery Filming Location
Location used for filming 'The Kingdom' (2007) showcasing a traditional Islamic cemetery.
- Cultural Respect: Showcases the importance of proper respect and care in Islamic burial practices.
- Film Production Challenges: Demonstrates the difficulties faced in filming sensitive locations like cemeteries.
- Historical Significance: Connects to the historical and religious significance of Islamic burial grounds.
10. Meccan Valley Filming Location
Location used for filming 'The Message' (1976) showcasing the Muhassabah Valley in Mecca.
- Natural Beauty: Highlights the natural beauty and tranquility of the Muhassabah Valley.
- Historical Connection: Connects to the story of Prophet Muhammad's life and the events that took place in this valley.
- Film Production Impact: Demonstrates the impact of film productions on preserving historical sites.
11. Meccan Caravan Filming Location
Location used for filming 'Lawrence of Arabia' (1962) showcasing traditional Meccan caravans.
- Cultural Authenticity: Offers an accurate representation of traditional Meccan caravan life.
- Film Production Artistry: Highlights the skill and artistry involved in filming desert scenes.
- Historical Connection: Connects to the historical context of caravan trade in the Arabian Peninsula.
12. Meccan Desert Filming Location
Location used for filming 'The Message' (1976) showcasing the vast Meccan desert landscape.
- Natural Wonder: Highlights the stark beauty and majesty of the Meccan desert.
- Film Production Challenges: Demonstrates the difficulties faced in filming scenes in such harsh desert conditions.
- Historical Context: Connects to the historical context of life and travel in the Arabian desert during Prophet Muhammad's era.
13. Meccan Oasis Filming Location
Location used for filming 'Lawrence of Arabia' (1962) showcasing the lush Meccan oasis.
- Natural Preservation: Highlights the importance of preserving rare and beautiful oases like this one.
- Film Production Artistry: Showcases the skill and artistry involved in filming desert oasis scenes.
- Historical Context: Connects to the historical context of life and travel in the Arabian desert during that time period.
14. Meccan Cave Filming Location
Location used for filming 'The Message' (1976) showcasing a cave near Mecca.
- Historical Significance: Connects to the story of Prophet Muhammad and his early life in caves around Mecca.
- Film Production Challenges: Demonstrates the difficulties faced in filming scenes within cave environments.
- Cultural Insight: Provides a unique insight into the life and culture of people living in harsh desert conditions.
15. Meccan Fort Filming Location
Location used for filming 'The Message' (1976) showcasing a fortress near Mecca.
- Historical Context: Connects to the historical context of forts and their importance in protecting Mecca.
- Film Production Challenges: Demonstrates the difficulties faced in filming scenes within ancient fortress environments.
- Cultural Insight: Provides a unique insight into the military and defense strategies of past civilizations.