Morocco is stepping up its bid to become a global film production hub with a new $25 million cinema complex in Ouarzazate, the city known for hosting major Hollywood films, including Ridley Scott’s Gladiator 2.

The Moroccan government officially launched construction of the International Cinema City on June 27. The project is located on a 24-acre site at the entrance of Ouarzazate. It has direct access to National Road 9 (RN9) and Mohammed V Avenue.

A One-Stop Film Production Hub

The Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication is leading the project. The new complex is designed to support every stage of filmmaking.

According to a government statement, it “will offer an integrated ecosystem covering the full film production value chain, including production, post-production, outdoor shooting, innovation, training, distribution, administrative services, and accommodations.”

The government is investing 240 million Moroccan Dirhams, or more than $25 million, in the project.

The facility will include modern sound stages, post-production labs, editing suites, screening rooms, and spaces for immersive technology and artificial intelligence used in filmmaking.

Training and Industry Growth

The cinema city will also feature a training and talent hub. A hotel complex will accommodate local and international production teams.

Officials said the training centre will help develop local skills in post-production and visual effects. It is also expected to drive innovation “within the country’s cultural and creative industries,” the statement noted.

Attracting More Hollywood Productions

The investment forms part of Morocco’s wider plan to grow its film industry. Foreign investment in productions filmed in Morocco reached about $130 million in 2025.

The country offers a 30% rebate, VAT tax exemptions, discounts of up to 80% on equipment rentals, and reduced hotel costs.

Morocco’s goal is “to no longer merely host location-based shoots, but to be able to provide producers, studios and streamers with the entire production value chain,” as more productions seek lower-cost filming destinations.