Where are the IMAX Screens in Dubai?
Dubai is spoiled for choice when it comes to IMAX venues. From luxurious pod seating to the largest screen in the city, each location offers something unique. Here’s a full guide to where you can watch the latest blockbusters on IMAX screens in Dubai, complete with details on size, projection technology and sound systems so you know exactly what you’re walking into.
IMAX Cinemas in Dubai
VOX Cinemas Mall of the Emirates
Let’s start with a screen at one of the popular cinema chains in Dubai, VOX Cinemas, particularly the one in the Mall of the Emirates (MOE). This is not just an IMAX screen; it’s Dubai’s fanciest. In April 2025, VOX Cinemas unveiled the world’s first IMAX Theatre Pods in partnership with Ōma Cinema®, bringing together cutting-edge technology and private viewing spaces.
TECHNICALITIES
- Projection: IMAX with Laser – dual 4K laser projection with full Rec. 2020 color gamut, high brightness and contrast far beyond traditional xenon projectors.
- Screen Size: Approximately 23 m wide × 12.3 m high, curved for maximum immersion.
- Audio: IMAX Immersive 12.1-channel sound, with pinpoint clarity and deep bass.
- Seating: Seven luxury pods, each accommodating up to five guests. Reclining leather chairs, blankets and in-seat gourmet dining service included.
Novo Cinemas IMG Worlds of Adventure
When it comes to sheer scale concerning IMAX screens in Dubai, Novo Cinemas at IMG Worlds of Adventure takes the lead. This IMAX with Laser screen is the largest in Dubai and one of the biggest in the region, making it a go-to spot for epic, effects-heavy blockbusters.
TECHNICALITIES
- Projection: IMAX with Laser – dual 4K laser projection with enhanced color and contrast.
- Screen Size: A massive 24.4 m × 13.8 m
- Audio: 12-channel sound system with overhead and side channels for a fully immersive experience.
- Seating: Around 360 seats, all with unobstructed views thanks to stadium-style design.
VOX Cinemas Dubai Festival City Mall
The Dubai Festival City Mall IMAX venue recently got a serious tech boost. VOX upgraded the IMAX here to 4K laser projection, bringing it in line with the visual sharpness and brightness movie fans expect from a premium large format.
TECHNICALITIES
- Projection: 4K laser (single-laser IMAX setup).
- Screen Size: Exact dimensions not published, but it’s a full-scale IMAX wall-to-wall screen.
- Audio: Upgraded sound to complement the visual improvements—clear dialogue and immersive effects.
Local cinema-goers say the upgrade puts Festival City’s IMAX quality nearly on par with Mall of the Emirates, making it a strong option if you live on that side of town, and in search of IMAX screens in Dubai.
VOX Cinemas City Centre Deira
City Centre Deira offers the IMAX Sapphire experience, which focuses on premium comfort alongside large-format visuals. While exact technical details are less publicised, Sapphire combines IMAX technology with luxury seating arrangements.
TECHNICALITIES
- Projection: Likely laser-based IMAX digital system.
- Screen Size: Not disclosed, but consistent with standard large-format IMAX dimensions.
- Audio: High-end multi-channel IMAX audio.
- Seating: Spacious, recliner-style premium seats designed for extra comfort.
All in all, if comfort is just as important to you as picture quality, this is a good choice.
FAQs about IMAX Screens in Dubai
Which IMAX in Dubai Should You Choose?
It depends on your priorities:
- Luxury & exclusivity: VOX Mall of the Emirates with Theatre Pods.
- Biggest screen: Novo IMG Worlds of Adventure.
- Tech upgrade close to home: VOX Dubai Festival City Mall.
- Premium comfort: IMAX Sapphire at City Centre Deira.
Is the IMAX experience at Dubai Festival City Mall the same as other IMAX venues?
VOX IMAX at Dubai Festival City Mall offers true IMAX with Laser projection and immersive sound, matching other venues in clarity and color. The screen is slightly smaller than Mall of the Emirates or IMG Worlds, with standard seating rather than luxury recliners.
Which cinema chain operates the IMAX screens in Dubai?
VOX IMAX at Dubai Festival City Mall offers true IMAX with Laser projection and immersive sound, matching other venues in clarity and colour. The screen is slightly smaller than Mall of the Emirates or IMG Worlds, with standard seating rather than luxury recliners.
Can’t get tickets? Consider cinemas in Sharjah. Among these, only the one in Zero 6 Mall features an IMAX screen. For more options, drive on over to the top cinemas in Abu Dhabi.
What is the difference between IMAX with Laser and IMAX Sapphire in Dubai?
In Dubai, the difference mainly comes down to projection technology vs seating experience:
- IMAX with Laser: Refers to the projection and sound system. It uses dual 4K laser projectors for higher brightness, sharper detail, a wider colour range and upgraded multi-channel IMAX audio. This affects the visual and audio quality of the movie.
- IMAX Sapphire: Refers to the seating format. It’s an IMAX auditorium fitted with fully reclining twin seats (essentially mini sofas for two), fewer seats overall and more legroom. The projection may still be IMAX with Laser, but the Sapphire branding focuses on comfort and exclusivity, not the screen tech.
That’s a wrap on our guide to IMAX screens in Dubai.
In perspective, IMAX with Laser ensures top-tier visuals and sound, while IMAX Sapphire offers plush reclining seating. Some cinemas combine both, but each IMAX venue’s mix of technology and comfort varies, making screen size, projection type and seating key factors in choosing where to watch.
Cover image credit: IMAX Facebook page
