The drive-in cinema is making a comeback in Dubai, this photo was taken at the launch of the Vox carpark cinema at Mall Of The Emirates in mid May, and now Reel Cinemas is opening one in Abu Dhabi. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback in Dubai, this photo was taken at the launch of the Vox carpark cinema at Mall Of The Emirates in mid May, and now Reel Cinemas is opening one in Abu Dhabi. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback in Dubai, this photo was taken at the launch of the Vox carpark cinema at Mall Of The Emirates in mid May, and now Reel Cinemas is opening one in Abu Dhabi. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback in Dubai, this photo was taken at the launch of the Vox carpark cinema at Mall Of The Emirates in mid May, and now Reel Cinemas is opening one in Abu Dhabi. Re

Film

Abu Dhabi's first drive-in cinema to open at Yas Marina Circuit

Films will be shown three nights a week at the capital's famed race track

Evelyn Lau
Ashleigh Stewart
Abu Dhabi

July 10, 2020

  • English
  • Arabic

A drive-in cinema is coming to Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit.

In partnership with Reel Cinemas, the drive-in will screen films three nights a week on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with showtime starting at 8pm. Its first showing will be Mad Max: Fury Road on Thursday, July 9.

On its opening weekend, there will also be a screening of Joker, on Friday, July 10, and Crazy Rich Asians, on Saturday, July 11.

The weekend after, the purpose-built venue will show Gravity, on Thursday, July 16, Ready Player One, on Friday, July 17, and A Star is Born, on Saturday, July 18.

The schedule for subsequent weeks is yet to be released.

It's the latest in a string of drive-in cinemas from movie theatre chains across the UAE that began opening earlier in the year, as the coronavirus pandemic forced cinemas to close.

Reel Cinemas launched its first drive-in experience at The Dubai Mall in late May and another in Dubai Hills Estate last week. They come after Vox Cinemas opened its version at Dubai's Mall of the Emirates, and Urban Entertainment announced its offering, set to open in July, at Sharjah's Madar at Aljada.

This is the first drive-in movie experience to come to the capital.

Amid the pandemic, cinemas in Abu Dhabi have been closed since March, so this will be welcome news for the city's movie fans.

Read More

Drive-in cinemas are coming to Dubai: is this the future of watching films?

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Tickets for the drive-in experience cost Dh160 per car, including a food and drinks package, and will be on sale from Thursday, July 2.

Tickets must be purchased online, as the entire process is designed to be  "as contactless as possible".

Some of the drive-in cinema's rules have already been listed on the Yas Marina Circuit website.

There is a limit of up to five people per vehicle if family or up to three if not and the cinema space has capacity for 65 cars.

Upon entry, guests will have their temperatures checked, before being directed to a specific parking spot. Visitors are requested to remain in their vehicles at all times, with the exception of using the toilets.

You'll need to keep your car's air conditioning running throughout the duration of the film in order to keep cool, and the movie's audio will be accessible through a dedicated radio channel that must also be played throughout.

Popcorn, soft drinks, water and chocolate are included in the ticket price as part of your food package, and extra snacks can be ordered from inside your car, by alerting staff to your vehicle using your hazard lights.

You must wear face masks if windows are lowered to speak to event staff, or when leaving the car.

Nearby prayer rooms, along with shower and locker facilities, will not be open.

The entrance to the drive-in cinema will be located at Yas Marina Circuit's East Gate.

Check out Dubai's drive-in cinema:

The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. These photos were all taken on the launch night, on Wednesday, May 13. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. These photos were all taken on the launch night, on Wednesday, May 13. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
The drive-in cinema is making a comeback at Mall Of The Emirates, and a large screen has been assembled in the shopping centre's upper parking lot, on level 3, right underneath Ski Dubai's slope. Patrons take position, switch off their engines and settle in for the film. Reem Mohammed / The National
While you're here
Tips to stay safe during hot weather
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration.
  • Seek cool environments: Use air conditioning, fans, or visit community spaces with climate control.
  • Limit outdoor activities: Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat. If outside, seek shade and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose and light-coloured clothing to facilitate heat loss.
  • Check on vulnerable people: Regularly check in on elderly neighbours, young children and those with health conditions.
  • Home adaptations: Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight, avoid using ovens or stoves, and ventilate living spaces during cooler hours.
  • Recognise heat illness: Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke (dizziness, confusion, rapid pulse, nausea), and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
The specs
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GAC GS8 Specs

Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo

Power: 248hp at 5,200rpm

Torque: 400Nm at 1,750-4,000rpm

Transmission: 8-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 9.1L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh149,900

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COMPANY PROFILE

Company name: Letstango.com

Started: June 2013

Founder: Alex Tchablakian

Based: Dubai

Industry: e-commerce

Initial investment: Dh10 million

Investors: Self-funded

Total customers: 300,000 unique customers every month

ELIO

Starring: Yonas Kibreab, Zoe Saldana, Brad Garrett

Directors: Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, Adrian Molina

Rating: 4/5

Tips for job-seekers
  • Do not submit your application through the Easy Apply button on LinkedIn. Employers receive between 600 and 800 replies for each job advert on the platform. If you are the right fit for a job, connect to a relevant person in the company on LinkedIn and send them a direct message.
  • Make sure you are an exact fit for the job advertised. If you are an HR manager with five years’ experience in retail and the job requires a similar candidate with five years’ experience in consumer, you should apply. But if you have no experience in HR, do not apply for the job.

David Mackenzie, founder of recruitment agency Mackenzie Jones Middle East

COMPANY PROFILE

Name: Lamsa

Founder: Badr Ward

Launched: 2014

Employees: 60

Based: Abu Dhabi

Sector: EdTech

Funding to date: $15 million

Name: Peter Dicce

Title: Assistant dean of students and director of athletics

Favourite sport: soccer

Favourite team: Bayern Munich

Favourite player: Franz Beckenbauer

Favourite activity in Abu Dhabi: scuba diving in the Northern Emirates 

 

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