13 gorgeous photos of the Middle Eastern desert that doubles for Mars in 'The Martian'

Director Ridley Scott's highly anticipated "The Martian" is in theaters Friday.

While much of the film will take place on Mars, it's the Middle Eastern desert of Wadi Rum, Jordan, which serves as the backdrop for the movie.

The desert is a Hollywood favorite for films which have taken place on the red planet.

Keep scrolling to see where movies in Mars come to life in movies.