#37: The Martian
Set Piece: Wadi Rum (Mars)
Location: Southern Jordan, near Aqaba
Production Budget: $108 million*
Ridley Scott was so enamored with Wadi Rum in Jordan, also known as the “Valley of the Moon,” that he featured it as the Martian landscape in The Martian and used it for scenes in Prometheus too. This stunning desert has also hosted other famous films like Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.
Wadi Rum’s history dates back to prehistoric times, featuring breathtaking sandstone and granite formations. Its striking red sands and surreal atmosphere make it a magnet for sci-fi filmmakers. Recognizing its significance, Wadi Rum was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, ensuring both filmmakers and tourists tread carefully when exploring its majestic terrain.