Top 10 Fantasy Films Set in the Middle East

Description: This film features Sinbad on a quest to save his fiancée from a sorcerer, encountering mythical creatures like a Cyclops and a dragon. Its setting in the Middle Eastern seas and the use of stop-motion animation for its creatures are notable.

Fact: Ray Harryhausen's special effects work in this film helped define the fantasy genre in cinema.

Description: Another Sinbad adventure, this film involves a quest for a magical golden tablet, with encounters with a six-armed statue and a centaur. Its exotic locales and mythical elements are key to its inclusion.

Fact: The film was one of the last to use the traditional stop-motion animation techniques of Ray Harryhausen.

Description: This Disney animated classic is set in the fictional city of Agrabah, inspired by Middle Eastern culture. It tells the story of a street urchin who finds a magic lamp and uses its genie to win the heart of a princess, all while thwarting the plans of the evil vizier Jafar.

Fact: The film was the first Disney animated feature to be set in the Middle East. It was also the highest-grossing film of

Description: This animated adventure film features Sinbad, the legendary sailor, on a quest to retrieve the Book of Peace from the goddess Eris. The film's setting in the mythical Middle Eastern seas and its use of ancient myths make it a fitting addition.

Fact: The film was originally planned as a stop-motion animation project by DreamWorks Animation.

Description: Set in ancient Mesopotamia, this action-fantasy film follows Mathayus, an Akkadian assassin, on his quest to overthrow an evil warlord. The film's setting and the mythical elements like the Scorpion King himself make it a notable entry.

Fact: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson made his starring debut in this film, which was a spin-off from "The Mummy Returns."

Description: Based on the popular video game, this film follows a rogue prince and a mysterious princess on a quest to prevent a villain from unleashing a sandstorm that could destroy the world. Its setting in ancient Persia and the use of magical artifacts like the Dagger of Time make it a perfect fit for this list.

Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, which provided an authentic backdrop for the Persian setting. Jake Gyllenhaal underwent extensive training to perform his own stunts.

Description: This classic film tells the story of a young thief who helps a deposed king regain his throne with the aid of magical items like a flying carpet and a genie. Its setting in an imagined Bagdad and the use of fantasy elements are central to its appeal.

Fact: The film won three Academy Awards for its special effects, cinematography, and art direction.

Description: Directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini, this film is a surreal adaptation of "One Thousand and One Nights," featuring stories like Aladdin and Ali Baba. Its setting in a fantastical version of the Middle East and its dreamlike narrative style make it unique.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations including Yemen, Iran, and Nepal to capture the exotic feel of the tales.

Description: This silent film is an early example of fantasy cinema set in the Middle East, where a princess disguises herself as a beggar to escape an arranged marriage, leading to adventures involving magic and romance.

Fact: It was one of the first films to use special effects to depict magical elements like flying carpets.

Description: This made-for-TV movie follows Sinbad as he battles a sorcerer to save his kingdom, featuring magical creatures and settings inspired by Middle Eastern folklore.

Fact: It was part of a series of Sinbad films produced for television, showcasing the enduring appeal of the character.