Be you on your own, with a group of mates or out on a date, the big screen’s appeal is as popular as it has ever been (and yes, popcorn quality is a major contributing factor in the continued longevity of movie night).
We may have had to wait a while for our beloved picture houses to return but with the doors flung open, popcorn in the microwave and the slush machine working overtime, here at Time Out Towers we are calling for lights, camera and action on the best cinema experiences in Abu Dhabi.
AL WAHDA MALL
This branch of Oscar Cinema is home to a luxury Pearl Suite Screen with extra comfy and spacious seats as well as a dine-in option. So if you’re looking for a slightly more glamorous big screen experience then this is the cinema for you.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for stretching out the legs and kicking back with a box of popcorn.
From Dhs40. Al Wahda Mall, Hazza Bin Zayed Street, oscarcinema.ae (02 443 3244).
ABU DHABI MALL
As one of the biggest cinema chains in the UAE, VOX cinema is a popular choice in the city. Families can enjoy the colourful kids’ theatres with rainbow seats and film lovers can get the ultimate escapism with the big screen experience in the IMAX theatre. There’s a choice between standard and premium seats and the cinema also has a Nutella bar to feed your sweet tooth.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for getting the sweet Nutella kick that we oh so crave.
From Dhs40. Abu Dhabi Mall, Al Zahiya, uae.voxcinemas.com (600 599905)
DALMA MALL
Showing the latest film releases from Hollywood, Bollywood and the Middle East, this branch of Cine Royal is located on the second floor of Dalma Mall and consists of 14 screens including six for 3D viewings and two with hi-tech sound and luxury seating.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for catching some of the region’s local blockbusters.
From Dhs40.25. Mussafah Industrial Area, cineroyal.ae (02 550 2525).
DEERFIELDS MALL
Like the Dalma Mall branch, the Cine Royal at Deerfield Mall has 14 screens and brings feature films from various numerous regions of the world to audiences in Abu Dhabi.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for the ‘gram. Seriously the lobby and lounge area are super cool and colourful.
From Dhs40.25. Al Bahia, cineroyal.ae (02 550 2525).
KHALIDIYAH MALL
This Cine Royal branch on the second floor of Khalidiyah Mall is slightly smaller, featuring nine screens, two of which are VIP theatres with leather chairs and butler service.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for being treated like the cine king or cine queen that you are.
From Dhs40.25. Mubarak Bin Mohammed Street, Al Khalidiyah, cineroyal.ae (02 681 9444).
MARINA MALL
The VOX cinemas branch at Marina Mall has nine screens including luxury options with reclining armchairs, waiter service in the theatres and a lounge.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for chilling out while the other half enjoys a shopping spree.
From Dhs40. Marina Mall, Breakwater on Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, uae.voxcinemas.com (600 599905).
NATION TOWERS
Offering another luxury cinema experience, the VOX outlet at Nation Galleria has four theatre screens, each with premium waiter service, a gourmet menu and reclining leather seats to sink into as you watch the latest Hollywood release.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for tucking into moreish meal with turning of the movie reel.
From Dhs40. Nation Towers, level 2, Nation Towers, Corniche West, uae.voxcinemas.com (600 599905)
THE GALLERIA AL MARYAH ISLAND
Not only comprising an impressive 21 screens, this VOX cinema outlet is home to the only full laser IMAX in Abu Dhabi. You’ll also find a colourful theatre for the kids and yet another Nutella Bar to get make the most of during movie time.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for getting a seat at short notice.
From Dhs40. The Galleria Al Maryah Island, uae.voxcinemas.com (600 599905).
THE MALL AT WORLD TRADE CENTRE
Nova Cinema at the World Trade Centre features eight theatre screens spread across two floors and includes the special seven-star screen, which comes complete with reclining leather seats and your own pillow and blanket at a cost of Dh150.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for making it feel like watching a movie at home.
From Dhs40. The Mall at World Trade Centre, Abu Dhabi, Khalifa Bin Zayed the First Street, uae.novocinemas.com (04 232 8523).
YAS MALL
VOX Cinema’s Yas Mall branch is another big one with 20 theatre screens, each complete with motion chairs, scent, wind, light and water effects (yes, really). Pick between interactive 3D screenings or laid-back luxury in the ‘theatre’ screen where you’ll get waiter service and extra comfy seating.
Best cinema experience in Abu Dhabi for feeling like you’re in the movie.
From Dhs40. Yas Mall, Yas Island.
