Star Trek Beyond, the latest film in the globally renowned sci-fi franchise, has started filming scenes in Dubai, UAE.

The crew will be filming at the Sound Stages in Dubai Studio City as well as key indoor and outdoor locations throughout the city for 13 days, according to the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC).  

The crew held a press conference at the Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai recently, attended by the film's director and producer Justin Lin, executive producer Jeffrey Chernov, writers Douglas Jung and Simon Pegg and stars Pegg, Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Karl Urban, Anton Yelchin and Idris Elba.

Jamal Al Sharif, chairman of DFTC, commented: "Dubai's diverse locations have truly set it apart as a global filming destination. During the scouting, the film crew was impressed by its diverse attractions and locations that include skyscrapers, beaches, desert and more. There are many factors about the emirate that are truly unique and attractive to international productions, including the excellent connectivity and cutting-edge infrastructure, as well as the ease of filming.”

Chernov said: "Dubai represents the future of what the frontier would be like in our film, and is an excellent place to shoot the movie as well as a special opportunity for all of us. This is not just the third of three movies, but has a new, refreshing twist, and Dubai's great visuals really fit the story."

Chris Pine revealed: "I love discovering new places and Dubai is such a stunning city - it looks like a future land! I am extremely happy to be here making this great film with Justin and the team, and so far my experiences have been wonderful, people have been gracious and welcoming." -TradeArabia News Service