New Emirati film ‘The Desert Beyond’ to celebrate Arab world’s first female astronaut
Production to begin across UAE with global theatrical and streaming release
DUBAI – A powerful new Emirati feature film inspired by the UAE’s growing prominence in space exploration is set to enter production.
The Desert Beyond, directed by Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning filmmaker David Darg, follows the fictional story of the Arab world’s first female astronaut, reflecting the nation’s vision to empower women in science, innovation, and leadership.
The 90-minute drama, to be filmed across Dubai and other UAE locations, is supported by the Dubai Films and Games Commission. The story combines an emotional personal journey with the nation’s bold space ambitions, symbolising the UAE’s role in shaping the future of scientific discovery.
The Desert Beyond
The Desert Beyond tells the story of Maryam, a young Emirati engineer competing for the nation’s first female astronaut mission. As she undergoes a demanding selection process, Maryam faces the challenges of national expectation, personal doubt, and her family’s legacy – ultimately learning that the strength to advance lies in embracing her heritage.
The film’s vision is rooted in celebrating transformation at every level – personal, generational, and national. It aims to present an inspiring portrayal of women redefining leadership and ambition in the Arab world.
Who is behind the project?
The film is executive produced by Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, founder of Naiy Production House, an Emirati company focused on socially driven storytelling. Production is led by Carla DiBello, founder of Arabia Plus, a UAE-based company producing regional stories for global audiences. She is joined by award-winning producer Stephen Strachan under his company Globa 3.
Nehal Badri, Secretary-General of the Dubai Media Council, said the Dubai Films and Games Commission’s support underscores the city’s growing role as a global hub for media innovation. “Our mission is to strengthen Dubai’s position as a centre for creative excellence, while advancing women’s roles as drivers of progress across all spheres of life,” she noted.
UAE’s space legacy
Executive Producer Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak shared that The Desert Beyond draws inspiration from the UAE’s ambitious space achievements and the courage of figures such as Nora Al Matrooshi, the Arab world’s first female astronaut. “This film celebrates transformation – personal, national, and generational. It’s about honouring our heritage as we take bold steps toward the future,” she said.
Producer Carla DiBello added that the project marks a milestone for regional storytelling: “We’re bringing a female-driven story from the Arab world to a global audience, showing women breaking barriers and defining leadership in the Middle East today.”
Since establishing the UAE Space Agency in 2014, the nation has launched the Emirates Mars Mission, sent astronauts Sultan Al Neyadi and Hazza Al Mansoori to the International Space Station, and celebrated Nora Al Matrooshi’s historic achievement – milestones that resonate deeply within the film’s theme.
Casting for The Desert Beyond will commence shortly. Capstone Pictures will handle worldwide sales, while Front Row Filmed Entertainment manages distribution across the Middle East and North Africa. A theatrical release is planned, followed by international streaming availability.