The Abu Dhabi Film Commission began working with Lionsgate from the early scripting phase in 2023, providing support with location scouting, coordinating with government entities and offering on-the-ground assistance throughout the production process.
The third installment of the Now You See Me franchise, titled Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, has completed filming in Abu Dhabi, following a 13-day shoot that showcased the UAE capital’s cinematic potential. The action-packed heist thriller, set to hit theatres this November, brought its ensemble cast—featuring Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, Ariana Greenblatt, Rosamund Pike and Morgan Freeman—to some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic locations.
Filming took place across the city, from the cultural grandeur of the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the architectural marvel of the Sheikh Zayed Bridge, to the sweeping dunes of the Liwa desert. Moviegoers can also expect to see scenes set in well-known landmarks like CLYMB and Ferrari World Yas Island, Yas Marina Circuit, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island and various Abu Dhabi streets, bringing a dynamic visual flair to the film’s storyline.
Supported by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, the production benefited from the Emirate’s incentives, including a substantial cashback rebate and streamlined logistical support.
The production employed 175 skilled local crew members, further showcasing the capabilities of Abu Dhabi’s growing film industry. Additionally, six young UAE-based filmmakers were given hands-on internship opportunities on set through the CMA’s creative lab initiative, allowing them to apply their training and gain valuable industry experience alongside an international crew.
Speaking about the filming, Matt Leonetti, President, Physical Production for Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said: “The Now You See Me films have always taken audiences on global adventures, and this film is no exception. Abu Dhabi’s iconic locations and incredible people will be part of what makes this film so enjoyable and memorable for worldwide audiences.”
Mohamed Dobay, Acting General Director of Creative Media Authority, added: “We are thrilled to have been a key filming location for the Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, seamlessly facilitating and wrapping yet another international Hollywood production in just 13 days across multiple iconic locations. The Lionsgate team benefited not only from Abu Dhabi Film Commission’s financial rebate offering, but also from the support of our key partners, Miral Destinations, facilitating key filming locations and last but not least, the expertise of our local crew, facilitated by Epic Films. The involvement of 175 skilled local crew members and six enthusiastic young talents from our community further highlights the growing strength of Abu Dhabi’s film industry. We eagerly anticipate the release this November, when audiences will see some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic locations come to life on screen.”
Liam Findlay, CEO, Miral Destinations, which manages several of the production locales, stated: “At Miral Destinations, we are proud to collaborate with global productions like Lionsgate’s next Now You See Me film, further establishing Yas Island as a premier destination for world-class entertainment and leisure. This accomplishment reflects the seamless cooperation with ADFC and key Abu Dhabi stakeholders, providing unrivalled access to iconic locations on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. Building on the success of previous international projects, as well as our high-profile Yas Island campaigns featuring A-list ambassadors such as Kevin Hart, Jason Momoa, and Ryan Reynolds, we remain committed to creating unforgettable experiences for both visitors and production partners.”
Directed by Ruben Fleischer, the film is written by Seth Grahame-Smith, Michael Lesslie, Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese, with a story by Eric Warren Singer. Producers Bobby Cohen, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci bring the project to life, building on characters originally created by Boaz Yakin and Edward Ricourt.
Now You See Me: Now You Don’t is part of a growing list of major Hollywood productions filmed in Abu Dhabi. With over 180 international projects having taken advantage of the emirate’s versatile landscapes, professional crews, state-of-the-art facilities, and competitive financial incentives, the region has hosted blockbusters including Dune, Sonic the Hedgehog, Mission: Impossible, Fast and Furious, and Star Wars, among others.
