As a refuge from the summer heat, few activities beat catching a movie in Abu Dhabi, where cinemas are often so cold that you are handed a blanket on the way in.
And as a city that is unabashed about its love of ‘going big’, it is little surprise that in terms of tech, Abu Dhabi’s cinemas are second to none: futuristic 4DX motion seats, drive-in screenings and even live-orchestra film concerts are all on offer for the discerning patron.
Whether you’re looking for something to entertain the kids for a few hours, a romantic night, or solo movie-watching bliss, you will find yourself spoiled for choice when it comes to the silver screen.
As for those that want to check out contemporary Arabic or subcontinental cinema, there are a number of options that don’t involve moving seats and gorging on nachos, especially in the emerging cultural district on Al Saadiyat Island. These are the best cinemas in Abu Dhabi.
1. VOX Cinemas at Yas Mall
In many ways, Vox has the Abu Dhabi cinema scene sewn up with its sprawling complex at Yas Mall. The 20 screens include an IMAX and 4DX seating, as well as its ‘Theatre’ screen where you are served a gourmet meal in reclining seats in a plush private lounge. At the other end of the spectrum is VOX’s screens for kids, where colourful seats and a range of kid-friendly movies will keep even the most easily distracted child entertained for at least 20 minutes.
Also of note is VOX’s diverse food options which, along with popcorn and chocolate, include Indian snacks like onion bhaji and dal vada and seekh kebab hotdogs. Failing that, how about a Reuben hot dog or parmesan truffle fries?
2. Yas Drive-in Cinema at Yas Marina Circuit
Where else to revive the tradition of movie drive-ins than the world-famous Yas Marina F1 circuit? You simply buy your ticket, park up, and tune the car radio to the dedicated FM station. Located in the Main Oasis parking lot, movies are typically screened three nights a week, on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and usually start at 8pm. The venue can only accommodate 65 cars and sells out quickly, so it is well worth booking ahead.
3. VOX Cinemas at Reem Mall
‘It’s Vox, Jim, but not as we know it.’ Over at Reem Mall, Vox hits the other end of the market with private screening rooms for four to eight guests and a range of food and drink options. A perfect option for birthdays or private screenings, guests can choose from a vast array of films, from contemporary blockbusters to old school classics.
If you’re near Reem and you don’t want to book the whole cinema, Vox also has regular screens at the location showing all the recent releases from global cinema, as well as lots of options for kids.
4. Etihad Arena – Movies in Concert
The movies in concert series at Etihad Arena features Hollywood classics projected on a massive 40ft screen while a live orchestra plays the score in real time. Recent extravaganzas include Star Wars, Frozen and Jurassic Park. In September 2025, the venue will host back-to-back Harry Potter films, the Philosopher’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets, in concert while a full symphony orchestra plays the John Williams Grammy-nominated score.
5. Cinema Space at Manarat Al Saadiyat
Cinema Space at Manarat Al Saadiyat may be temporarily on pause, but residents and visitors alike will be hoping the independent venue is back soon with its free screenings of restored classics and contemporary world cinema – a refreshing antidote to the brash glamour of mainstream cinemas that currently dominates major cities. In the meantime, check out events at either Warehouse 421 or CinemaNa at The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi for interesting events, screenings and Q&As, including contemporary Arabic cinema.
6. Louvre Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s hottest new cultural hub hosts film screenings among a range of events all year round, and it is worth checking the website regularly to find out what is on. In previous years, the Louvre has aired classic Bollywood films in an outside setting, as well as audio-visual experiences and short films that are well worth checking out.
7. Al Mariah Cinema
Since the beloved Eldorado closed its doors, Al Mariah Cinema in downtown Abu Dhabi is officially the oldest cinemas in the emirate, able to seat more than 2,000 patrons over nine screens. Located on the first floor of Al Mariah Mall, it shows all recent releases as well as a solid selection of Indian and Tamil movies. It is a good deal cheaper than the major brands.
