UAE cinema capacity increases 100 percent since COVID began

Headed to the movies? UAE cinema capacity is increasing. From Tuesday February 15 cinemas across the United Arab Emirates will be allowed to operate at maximum capacity.

This marks the first time that movie theatres have been able to operate at full capacity since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

The announcement was made by the Media Regulatory Office of the Ministry of Youth and Culture, and the decision to increase UAE cinema capacity was issued by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA). NCEMA stipulated that each emirate can modify cinema capacity as they deem fit.

UAE citizens and residents will still need to fully adhere to other COVID preventative measures inside and out of movie theatres. These include mandatory mask-wearing, restrictions on large gatherings as well as vaccination and booster requirements. NCEMA will ensure precautionary measures are fully adhered to protect the health and safety of the community.

You might like: UAE to gradually lift COVID-19 restrictions

Apart from increasing UAE cinema capacity, NCEMA has been gradually lifting other COVID-19 related restrictions, too. The easing of restrictions covers activities and events across the UAE including tourism, shopping malls, transportation and more.

UAE stadiums are also returning to full capacity for football matches.

Maximum capacity for social events such as weddings and funerals has also been raised and will be determined by local committees in each emirate. In mosques and places of worship, the safe distance will be reduced to one metre.

Precautionary measures include getting vaccinated and getting booster shots to maintain green status on the Al Hosn app. Receiving a third or fourth jab will ensure you keep the green pass. UAE residents qualify for booster vaccines six months after their last dose of a vaccine, or three months if you’re considered high risk.

Wondering what film to watch first? For the latest films in UAE cinemas click here. You could also work your way through the 2022 Oscar nominees.

Grab your popcorn and take a seat.

From Tue Feb 15.