Netflix and Disney Bet on Morocco as Argan Studios Emerges as Africa’s Future Film Hub

Khadija Alami a Moroccan Films Producer. Photo Credit: US Ambassy Morocco/ YouTube

Led by renowned Moroccan producer Khadija Alami, the project aims to create a fully integrated audiovisual ecosystem capable of hosting international productions, training local talent and boosting Morocco’s creative economy.

A Strategic Film Hub Between Rabat and Casablanca

Strategically located between Rabat and Casablanca, Argan Studios will span nearly 80 hectares and represents a total investment of approximately €70 million. The complex will include:

Large-scale indoor and outdoor film sets
High-end sound stages and post-production facilities
A film training campus dedicated to cinema professions
Hotels, business centers and production offices

The first studio is expected to open in 2027, with full completion planned by 2030, according to project sources.

Global Streaming Giants Show Strong Interest

Thanks to Morocco’s growing reputation as a filming destination, global platforms such as Netflix, Disney and Prime Video have already expressed interest in using Argan Studios for upcoming productions.

The project is supported by MBS Group, a key international player in studio development, strengthening Morocco’s ability to compete with established filming hubs such as South Africa, Spain and Malta.

Excellent connectivity to international airports further enhances the site’s attractiveness for large-scale productions.

Strong Institutional and Financial Backing

The first phase of Argan Studios is financed by K Films with an initial investment of €18 million, supported by Moroccan banks and state-backed land facilitation.

To complete the full €70 million investment, discussions are ongoing with major institutions including the World Bank and Morocco’s Caisse de Dépôt et de Gestion (CDG).

The project benefits from high-level institutional support, reflecting Morocco’s ambition to professionalize and scale up its film and audiovisual sector.

Boosting Morocco’s Film Economy

In 2024, foreign film productions injected nearly €110 million into the Moroccan economy. With Argan Studios, the Kingdom aims to capture a larger share of this market by offering a complete value chain, from filming to post-production.

The new cinema city will complement Morocco’s iconic outdoor filming locations, such as Ouarzazate, by providing state-of-the-art indoor facilities, positioning the country as a leading destination for international superproductions.

Morocco Strengthens Its Global Creative Position

Argan Studios represents a major milestone in Morocco’s cultural and economic development. By attracting global streaming platforms and investing in local talent, the project reinforces the country’s status as Africa’s emerging cinema hub.

As global demand for diverse filming locations continues to rise, Morocco is sending a clear message: it is ready to play a central role in the future of the global film industry.

Source: lemonde.fr