The filmgoer’s guide to the top cinemas in Abu Dhabi
The feeling of tucking into fresh popcorn while watching a good film in a theatre is unmatched, especially if you’re a cinephile who enjoys a good flick. If you live in Abu Dhabi and want to catch a film on the big screen, we’re here to help you discover the best cinemas in Abu Dhabi with our hand-picked guide.
List of cinemas in Abu Dhabi
From the exclusive National Cinema Abu Dhabi to the immensely popular Novo Cinemas, there are several movie theatres for film fans to enjoy. From surround sound to VIP sections, these Abu Dhabi cinemas offer every service you could imagine.
Novo Cinemas
Novo Cinemas is a movie theatre chain known for screening the latest films in the best quality, along with offering excellent hospitality and food. You can find Novo Cinemas Abu Dhabi at Bawabat Al Sharq Mall. Here, cinephiles can enjoy a unique 7-star luxury experience, which includes access to a private VIP lounge, a personal butler, fine-dining food and automated reclining chairs.
- Address: 3rd Floor, Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, 10th Street, Al Zahiya, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-645-8988
AlMariah Cinema
Built in 2000, this cinema can accommodate 2,065 people and has grown to become a state-of-the-art modern-screen facility. AlMariah offers digital surround sound, discounted prices, as well as upholstered seats in both Gold Class and VIP sections.
You can enjoy 2D and 3D Dolby Digital cinema system movies in Grand Cinemas Abu Dhabi, making it the perfect venue for screenings and premiere nights.
- Address: Al Najda Street, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-678-5000
Star Cinemas
Star Cinemas is one of Abu Dhabi’s most prominent movie theatre chains. They are owned and operated by Phars Film, one of GCC’s largest and oldest movie distribution companies since it’s establishment in 1964. They currently have 16 branches in the UAE and 195 screens.
If you’re looking to avoid large crowds, Star Cinemas in Khalifa City might be perfect for you. It is a quieter space and offers tickets at reasonable prices. You can also visit the branch in Grand Safeer Mall for a more chill experience. They’ve acquired a number of cinema halls in Abu Dhabi, such as the Oscar Cinema in Al Wahda Mall.
- Address: Multiple branches in Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-4-770-2121 fo their head office
Royal Cinemas
For people who want to enjoy a relaxed silver screen experience, Royal Cinema in Khalidiyah Mall is a great choice. It is part of a chain of cineplexes that offers technologically advanced cinemas, with branches in Dalma Mall, Al Dhannah Mall and Deerfields Mall.
The Cine Royal Cinema at Khalidiyah Mall has nine screens and airs Hollywood, Middle Eastern, Indian and Nepali films.
- Address: Khalidiyah Mall, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-681-9444 for their head office in Khalidiyah Mall
VOX Cinemas
Vox Cinemas in Abu Dhabi is spread over five locations: Abu Dhabi Mall, Nation Galleria, Yas Mall, Al Maryah Island and Marina Mall. The Marina Mall branch has nine screens and also offers a lounge, waiter service and reclining armchairs for a luxurious movie-viewing experience.
This Abu Dhabi cinema was the first in the UAE to introduce IMAX with Laser and it also has a MAX mega-screen offering Dolby ATMOS surround sound for blockbuster hits. VOX Cinemas also operates KIDS, a cinema dedicated for children. Their snacks and beverage selection is a favourite for many filmgoers in the city, owing to its variety and delicious flavours.
- Address: Marina Mall, Level 1, Breakwater on Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-600-59-9905
Cinema City AlQana
We’re ending this list with one of the most popular cinemas in Abu Dhabi! CinemaCity is an expansive complex with multiple screening experiences, such as an ArtHouse theatre, VIP screens and XXL Screens. They’ve also got a great selection of food to accompany your movie experience, including rolls, pizzas and burgers!
- Address: Al Qana, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: 600-515-000
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cinema in Abu Dhabi offers the best VIP experience?
You can check out Novo Cinemas and IMAX by Vox Cinemas for the best VIP experiences. A budget-friendly alternative is Gold Class by AlMariah Cinemas.
Are there any cinemas in Abu Dhabi that show classic films?
Cinema Space is a fully independent, voluntary movie screening that hosts timeless films, such as Charlie Chaplin, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and The Godfather. Currently, there are no upcoming films, but do watch this space for any updates on screenings.
If you are a connoisseur of art house cinema and enjoy indie flicks, check out our review of Cinema Akil, one of the best places to watch independent movies in Dubai.
Which cinema in Abu Dhabi has the largest screens?
CinemaCity Al Qana boasts the largest screens in Abu Dhabi, with its XXL experience offering a screen like no other. Along with the large screen size, they have advanced dual laser projection for an immersive visual and auditory experience.
That’s all for our list of the best cinemas in Abu Dhabi. There are also a few must-try cinemas in Dubai that you should visit if you are in the city. And during cooler months, don’t miss out on watching your favourite movies in the outdoor cinemas in Dubai.
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