Looking to experience the charm and magic of drive-in cinemas in Dubai?
The global COVID-19 pandemic will forever change the way we travel, work, study–and even consume entertainment. Cinema houses had no choice but to pause operations, in compliance with UAE health and safety restrictions. But business innovators have found a way to provide a unique big-screen experience to Emiratis. By adapting the drive-in cinema culture, viewers can enjoy the latest box-office hits in a safe outdoor setting that is intimate at the same time.
Book a ticket and enjoy a special movie date in these Dubai drive-in cinemas:
VOX Cinemas Drive-In (Mall of the Emirates)
VOX Cinemas opened a drive-in theater at the Mall of Emirates last year. Screenings are scheduled for 7:30 in the evenings. For a cost of AED 180 per car (maximum of two people), drive-in cinema-goers can enjoy movie night with free popcorn, nachos, M&Ms, and beverages. Audiences can stream the audio right inside their parked cars by setting their radio channels to a designated frequency.
The Reel Drive-In Cinema (The Dubai Mall)
The Reel drive-in cinema at the Dubai Mall offers a sparkling view of the Burj Khalifa beyond the huge movie screen. Located at the mall’s rooftop parking space, drivers will be assigned a space according to car size. Moviegoers can set their radio frequency to receive the movie audio directly inside the comfort of their own car. Ticket prices are at AED 170, including popcorn, nachos, chocolates, soft drinks, and water bottles.
Reel Cinemas (Dubai Hills Estate)
The cinema chain opened its second drive-in theater at the Dubai Hills Estate. The location is surrounded by lush landscaped greens and also offers a relaxing city view. Ticket prices are AED 170 and also include popcorn, snacks, and beverages good for two. You can find the drive-in cinema in the residential area between Central Park and Mulberry 2.
The Reel also operates a drive-in theater at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.
Tickets prices at these cinemas already include snacks and beverages. They don’t allow bringing snacks from outside the venue. Also, remember to bring a face masks. You’d still have to wear these when you head to the restrooms or talking to the staff. Headlights should be turned off at all times. And viewers must refrain from leaving their cars while the movie is running.
Drive In and Enjoy the Show
Drive-in cinemas are effective in maintaining social distancing measures while delivering high-quality entertainment to movie enthusiasts. To enjoy the experience to the fullest, keep your car air conditioning running throughout the duration of the film. Summers can be exceptionally hot in the UAE, which is a unique challenge for many of these drive-in theaters.
Drive-in theaters were wildly popular in the US in the 1950s to 1960s. The drive-ins were a huge hit back then, especially in the rural areas. Today, Dubai being one of the most modern cities in the world is promoting the revival of the trend. Drive-in cinemas in Dubai present a great solution to making movie screenings safe for the public again.