Movies under the sky Dubai
Introduction to Cinemas In Dubai
I love a good movie! One of my favourite pastimes is watching movies in Dubai, and we are spoilt for choice now in terms of the number of cinemas available. When I arrived 20 years ago there was very little choice and most cinemas were quite basic. Fortunately, there has been a revolution in cinema in Dubai and some big chains have been set up such as VOX, Reel and Nova.
Yet there is still space for art cinema in Dubai, along with open-air and other types of movie experiences. One of the other blessings of being in Dubai is that you can enjoy cinema from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. There is a spectacular choice, so this article will discuss all of this and guide you on where to go. Enjoy!
Table Of Contents
Mainstream Cinemas in Dubai
Vox Cinemas
Vox Cinemas stands as the epitome of the mainstream movie-watching experience in Dubai. With multiple locations across the city, including the Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Deira, Vox offers a variety of viewing experiences such as IMAX, 4DX, and Theatre by Rhodes, which combines fine dining with movie-watching. Their state-of-the-art facilities and wide selection of movies, ranging from Hollywood blockbusters to Bollywood hits, ensure a memorable cinematic journey.
| VOX Cinema Location | Location Detail |
|---|---|
| VOX Cinemas, Mall of the Emirates | Al Barsha |
| VOX Cinemas, City Centre Deira | Deira |
| VOX Cinemas, City Centre Mirdif | Mirdif |
| VOX Cinemas, Mercato Mall | Jumeirah |
| VOX Cinemas, Grand Hyatt | Oud Metha |
| VOX Cinemas, Nakheel Mall | Palm Jumeirah |
| VOX Cinemas, City Centre Al Shindagha | Al Ghubaiba |
| VOX Cinemas, BurJuman | Bur Dubai |
Novo Cinemas
Another titan in Dubai’s cinema landscape, Novo Cinemas, attracts movie-goers with its cutting-edge technology and comfortable seating. The IMAX experience at Novo Cinemas is particularly noteworthy, offering viewers an immersive experience with crystal clear images and powerful sound. Novo’s 7-Star service includes personal butler service, gourmet meals, and reclining leather seats, setting the bar high for luxury cinema in Dubai.
| Novo Cinema Location | Location Detail |
|---|---|
| Novo Cinemas, Ibn Battuta Mall | Sheikh Zayed Road |
| Novo Cinemas, Dragon Mart 2 | International City |
| Novo Cinemas, Dubai Festival City Mall | Dubai Festival City |
Reel Cinemas
Reel Cinemas is another gem in Dubai’s illustrious cinematic crown, offering a diverse array of movie-watching experiences tailored to meet the expectations of its varied audience. Strategically located in some of Dubai’s most iconic destinations, including The Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina Mall, Reel Cinemas amplifies the cinematic experience with its luxurious settings and cutting-edge technology. Beyond standard screenings, Reel Cinemas elevates the movie-going experience with its Platinum Suites, Dolby Cinemas, and Dine-in Cinema concepts, blending top-notch visual and sound quality with unmatched comfort and privacy.
| Reel Cinemas Location | Location Detail |
|---|---|
| Reel Cinemas, The Dubai Mall | Downtown Dubai |
| Reel Cinemas, Dubai Marina Mall | Dubai Marina |
| Reel Cinemas, The Pointe | Palm Jumeirah |
| Reel Cinemas, Rove Downtown | Downtown Dubai |
| Reel Cinemas, Jebel Ali Recreation Club | Jebel Ali |
| Reel Cinemas, Al Ghurair Centre | Deira |
| Reel Cinemas, Springs Souk | Emirates Living Community |
Art Cinemas in Dubai
Cinema Akil
For those looking to delve into the world of independent and international films, Cinema Akil is an unparalleled destination. Located in Alserkal Avenue, the heart of Dubai’s arts and culture district, Cinema Akil is the first and only arthouse cinema in the Gulf region. It showcases a carefully curated selection of documentaries, foreign films, and regional cinema, making it a haven for cinephiles seeking thought-provoking and critically acclaimed films outside the mainstream circuit.
The Dubai Film Festival
While not a cinema in the traditional sense, the Dubai Film Festival deserves mention for its significant contribution to the art cinema scene in Dubai. This annual event brings together filmmakers, actors, and enthusiasts worldwide to celebrate the art of cinema. The festival screens a diverse range of films, including international art-house favourites and groundbreaking regional works, providing a platform for dialogue and exchange among cinema’s creative minds. The event has not been held in recent years and hopefully will come back one day,
Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai
VOX Outdoor Cinema
VOX Cinemas’ outdoor cinema at Galleria Mall offers a perfect blend of casual elegance and cinematic excitement under the open sky. With comfortable lounge-style seating and wireless headphones for an uninterrupted listening experience, movie-goers can enjoy blockbuster films in the cool Dubai evening. The outdoor setting, combined with excellent F&B options, makes for an unforgettable movie night.
Cinema Under the Stars at Zero Gravity
Zero Gravity, a popular beach club and nightlife hotspot, hosts “Cinema on the Sand,” where guests can watch movies on a large screen set against the picturesque backdrop of Dubai’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf. The experience is enhanced by the soft sand, bean bags, and the sound of the waves, creating a relaxed and enchanting movie-watching atmosphere.
A4 Space
A4 Space in Alserkal Avenue occasionally transforms its space into an impromptu cinema, screening independent films and documentaries in an intimate setting. This experience is ideal for those looking to combine their love for movies with a passion for art and culture, all within the creative community of Alserkal Avenue.
Conclusion
Dubai’s cinema scene is as diverse as its populace, offering something for everyone – from lavish multiplexes and luxury viewing experiences to art-house films and unique outdoor cinemas. Whether you’re a fan of the latest Hollywood blockbuster, an independent film enthusiast, or someone who enjoys movies under the stars, Dubai provides a world-class cinematic experience that is hard to match. The city’s commitment to cultural diversity and technological innovation ensures that its cinemas remain a destination for entertainment and artistic expression, making Dubai a true cinephile’s paradise.
FAQ
What types of cinemas can I find in Dubai?
Dubai boasts a wide range of cinemas, including mainstream multiplexes like Vox Cinemas and Novo Cinemas, art-house cinemas such as Cinema Akil, and unique outdoor cinemas like VOX Outdoor Cinema and Cinema on the Sand at Zero Gravity.
Are there any cinemas in Dubai that show independent or international films?
Yes, Cinema Akil in Alserkal Avenue is dedicated to showcasing independent, international, and art-house films, providing a platform for cinema outside the mainstream offerings.
Can I watch movies outdoors in Dubai?
Absolutely! Dubai offers several outdoor cinema experiences, including VOX Outdoor Cinema at Galleria Mall and the “Cinema on the Sand” at Zero Gravity, where you can enjoy movies under the stars.
What is the Dubai Film Festival?
The Dubai Film Festival is an annual event that celebrates the art of cinema by screening a diverse range of films, including international art-house films and regional cinema. It’s a gathering of filmmakers, actors, and enthusiasts from around the world.
Is there a luxury cinema experience in Dubai?
Yes, for those seeking a luxury cinema experience, Novo Cinemas’ 7-Star service and Vox Cinemas’ Theatre by Rhodes offer plush seating, personal butler service, and gourmet dining options.
Do cinemas in Dubai offer food and beverage services?
Many cinemas in Dubai, especially the luxury and outdoor cinemas, offer comprehensive food and beverage services, ranging from gourmet meals to casual snacks and drinks.
How can I find out what movies are playing in Dubai?
Movie schedules can be found on the individual websites of cinemas, such as Vox Cinemas and Novo Cinemas, as well as on Cinema Akil’s site for independent film screenings.
Are there any cinemas in Dubai that cater specifically to art and culture enthusiasts?
Cinema Akil caters specifically to art and culture enthusiasts by screening independent, international, and art-house films, often including discussions, Q&A sessions, and film festivals that celebrate the cinematic arts.
What makes outdoor cinemas in Dubai unique?
Dubai’s outdoor cinemas offer a unique experience by combining movie watching with the city’s beautiful outdoor settings, often including beachfront views, lounge-style seating, and wireless headphones for a personal listening experience.
Can I find family-friendly cinema experiences in Dubai?
Yes, many cinemas in Dubai, including mainstream and outdoor options, offer family-friendly screenings and amenities, making it easy for movie-goers of all ages to enjoy a film together.
Useful Links
- Check out VOX Cinemas for all your favourite movies and how to book.
- Or check out Reel Cinemas for all their locations.
- And then there are NOVA Cinemas at their locations as well.
- The Cinema Akil can be found here.
- You can try Dubai Opera for other a different kind of entertainment.
- Then there are light shows like the AYA Universe in Wafi Mall.
- Looking for a concert to go to or other live events?
Key Takeaways Movies In Dubai
- Diverse Cinema Offerings: Dubai offers a wide spectrum of cinematic experiences, from mainstream blockbuster screenings at multiplexes to independent and international films at art-house cinemas.
- Luxury Viewing Experiences: For those seeking opulence, luxury cinemas like Novo Cinemas’ 7-Star service and Vox Cinemas’ Theatre by Rhodes provide plush seating, gourmet dining, and personal butler services.
- Art-House Cinemas: Cinema Akil stands out as Dubai’s premier venue for independent, international, and art-house films, fostering a community of cinema enthusiasts and cultural dialogue.
- Outdoor Cinemas: Unique to Dubai’s vibrant lifestyle, outdoor cinemas like VOX Outdoor Cinema and Cinema on the Sand at Zero Gravity offer movie-goers the chance to enjoy films under the stars in picturesque settings.
- Dubai Film Festival: An annual celebration that brings together the global cinematic community to Dubai, showcasing a diverse range of films and fostering international dialogue and exchange.
- Comprehensive F&B Services: Many cinemas, particularly luxury and outdoor venues, offer extensive food and beverage options, enhancing the movie-watching experience.
- Accessibility of Film Schedules: Movie schedules and tickets are easily accessible through the websites of individual cinemas, making planning a movie night in Dubai convenient.
- Cultural Hub for Cinema: With offerings like Cinema Akil and the Dubai Film Festival, Dubai positions itself as a cultural hub for both regional and international cinema.
- Family-Friendly Options: Movies in Dubai cater to audiences of all ages, with family-friendly screenings and amenities ensuring an enjoyable experience for movie-goers with children.
- Technological Advancements: Mainstream cinemas in Dubai are equipped with the latest in cinema technology, including IMAX and 4DX, providing an immersive viewing experience.
