Top 10 Historical Films Set in Ancient Arab Cities

Description: A fantasy adventure set in the mythical Baghdad, this film captures the imagination with its portrayal of the city's grandeur and the tales of adventure within its walls.

Fact: The film was a major technical achievement for its time, using innovative special effects to create the magical elements of the story.

Description: This classic film follows T.E. Lawrence's experiences in the Arabian Peninsula during World War I, showcasing the vast deserts and the cities like Damascus and Aqaba.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Jordan, Spain, and Morocco to replicate the Arab landscape. It won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: While not about an ancient city, this film provides a gritty portrayal of the Algerian War of Independence, showing the urban warfare in Algiers.

Fact: The film was shot in a documentary style, using real locations in Algiers, and it was banned in France for several years due to its political content.

Description: Set in Morocco, this film tells the story of the kidnapping of an American woman by a Berber chieftain, providing a backdrop of the Moroccan city of Tangier.

Fact: The film was inspired by real events, although the story is largely fictionalized. It was shot in Spain to replicate the Moroccan landscape.

Description: This film, also known as "Mohammad, Messenger of God," explores the early days of Islam, including the life of the Prophet Muhammad and the establishment of Medina as a city-state.

Fact: The film was banned in several countries due to its depiction of the Prophet Muhammad, although he is never shown on screen. It was also the first major film to be shot in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Description: This film, based on Paul Bowles' novel, explores the lives of Westerners in the Sahara, with scenes set in various North African cities, including Marrakesh.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Morocco, capturing the essence of the desert and the cities' mystique.

Description: This epic historical drama, directed by Ridley Scott, captures the essence of the Crusades, focusing on the siege of Jerusalem. While not exclusively about Arab cities, it provides a rich backdrop of the interactions between Christian and Muslim forces in the Holy Land.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Morocco, which provided an authentic setting for the ancient Arab city scenes. Additionally, it features a historically accurate portrayal of Salah ad-Din (Saladin).

Description: While not strictly historical, this film is inspired by the video game and set in an ancient Persian city, offering a glimpse into the architectural and cultural aspects of the era.

Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, with sets built to replicate ancient Persian architecture. It also features a time-traveling dagger, adding a fantastical element to the historical setting.

Description: This Australian film recounts the charge of the 4th Light Horse Brigade at Beersheba, showcasing the interaction between Australian soldiers and the Arab inhabitants of the region.

Fact: The film was shot in South Australia, but the battle scenes were inspired by real events in the Middle East during World War I.

Description: Although not strictly historical, this film offers a contemporary look at life in an Egyptian town, reflecting on cultural exchanges and the timelessness of human connections.

Fact: The film was shot in Israel, but the setting is meant to represent an Egyptian town, showcasing the universal themes of music and friendship.