Oscar-winning 'Dune' studio to hold Abu Dhabi masterclass in November

Aspiring filmmakers in the UAE have a rare opportunity to learn directly from some of Hollywood’s most acclaimed production experts under a two-day film production masterclass from November 1.

Making the announcement, Creative Media Authority (CMA) said the sessions - organised by Creative Lab and the Abu Dhabi Film Commission - will explore key aspects of filmmaking, from creative and physical production to design, finance, and budgeting. 

They'll be led by Herb Gains, Executive Vice President of Physical Production at Legendary Entertainment; Sam Kozhaya, Executive Vice President of Operations and Corporate Development and Oscar-winning Production Designer Patrice Vermette, whose collaborations include all three Dune films.

Attendees will gain insights into how production design and physical production work together, the producer’s role in greenlighting projects, and the creative process behind major films such as Dune, Godzilla vs. Kong, Enola Holmes, Arrival and Sicario.

Each full-day session will be held at Sandstorm Studio in Yas Creative Hub, with 100 seats available per day.

Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of CMA, said the initiative underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers. “By collaborating with some of Hollywood’s most accomplished production experts, we’re offering a world-class learning experience that supports the continued growth of Abu Dhabi’s creative ecosystem," he added.

Gains said he is looking forward to sharing insights into the Dune franchise’s production process, including how the team brought the desert planet Arrakis to life in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Desert, which will again feature in the upcoming Dune sequel.

Abu Dhabi has established itself as a major filming destination, with over 180 international productions taking place in the emirate, including Mission: Impossible, Star Wars, Fast & Furious, and 6 Underground. The emirate continues to attract global filmmakers thanks to its 30 per cent cashback rebate, diverse landscapes and robust production infrastructure.