How to watch movies in English in Abu Dhabi cinemas?

Visiting Abu Dhabi’s modern cinemas to catch the latest blockbusters is a popular pastime for residents and tourists alike, and fortunately, watching movies in English is incredibly straightforward given the city’s diverse international population. Hollywood and other international films are almost always screened in their original English language, typically accompanied by Arabic subtitles, ensuring a comfortable and accessible cinematic experience for English speakers. Understanding how to navigate the cinema listings and choose the right screenings will help you make the most of your movie outings in the capital. We are here to guide you through the process of watching movies in English in Abu Dhabi cinemas, ensuring you can enjoy your preferred films with ease.

Dominant Cinema Chains and Their Offerings

Abu Dhabi is home to several major cinema chains, all of which consistently screen English-language films. These multiplexes offer various viewing experiences, from standard screens to luxurious VIP options.

VOX Cinemas: As one of the largest and most prominent cinema operators in the Middle East, VOX Cinemas has numerous locations across Abu Dhabi, including popular spots like Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, Nation Towers, and The Galleria Al Maryah Island.

• English Language: The vast majority of Hollywood and international films shown at VOX Cinemas are in their original English language.
• Subtitles: English films are typically screened with Arabic subtitles displayed at the bottom of the screen. This is standard practice across the UAE.
• Premium Experiences: VOX offers various premium experiences like MAX (large screen format), 4DX (immersive sensory experience with motion seats and environmental effects), GOLD (luxury seating with F&B service), THEATRE (ultra-luxury seating and gourmet food), and KIDS (colorful auditoriums designed for younger audiences). All these experiences usually cater to English-language films.

Novo Cinemas: Another popular cinema chain with a strong presence in Abu Dhabi, including locations like Abu Dhabi Mall.

• English Language: Novo Cinemas also primarily screens Hollywood movies in English.
• Subtitles: Similar to VOX, English films at Novo Cinemas come with Arabic subtitles.
• Special Features: Novo Cinemas offers comfortable seating and modern sound systems. Some locations might have VIP screens or specialized formats.

Reel Cinemas: While having a larger presence in Dubai, Reel Cinemas also operates in Abu Dhabi, such as at Yas Mall.

• English Language: You can expect English-language movies to be the norm for international releases at Reel Cinemas.
• Subtitles: Arabic subtitles are standard for English films.
• Diverse Formats: Reel Cinemas offers different concepts, including luxurious options, ensuring a wide range of choices for moviegoers.

Star Cinemas: A smaller chain, Star Cinemas also operates in Abu Dhabi and shows a mix of international and regional films. You will find a good selection of English-language movies here as well.

How to Verify Movie Language and Showtimes

The most reliable way to ensure you are booking an English-language screening is to check the cinema’s official website or mobile app.

• Cinema Websites/Apps: Each major cinema chain has a user-friendly website and mobile application.
  • Visit the website of VOX Cinemas UAE, Novo Cinemas UAE, or Reel Cinemas UAE.
  • Select your preferred Abu Dhabi location (e.g., Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall).
  • Browse the “Now Showing” or “Coming Soon” sections.
  • When you click on a movie title, the movie details page will clearly indicate the language of the film. For Hollywood films, it will almost always say “English.”
  • It will also specify the subtitle language, which for English films is typically “Arabic.” Sometimes, for non-English films, you might find both English and Arabic subtitles.
• Online Ticketing Platforms: Websites like Tickets.ae or Platinumlist.net also list movie showtimes and provide language details. Ensure you select “Abu Dhabi” as your city.
• In-Cinema Kiosks: If you are already at the mall, cinema kiosks or ticket counters will display the movie schedule, including the language and subtitle information.

A Crucial Tip: While the vast majority of international films are in English, Abu Dhabi cinemas also screen films in other languages, especially popular Bollywood (Hindi), Malayalam, and Arabic films. When checking showtimes online, pay close attention to the “Language” or “Original Language” tag associated with each movie listing to avoid accidentally booking a screening in a different language. For example, a Hollywood film might be available with an Arabic dub, but this will be explicitly stated as “Arabic (Dubbed)” or similar. If it just says “English,” it is the original version.

Important Considerations for Moviegoers

Beyond language, there are a few other aspects to keep in mind for your cinema experience in Abu Dhabi.

• Movie Ratings: The UAE follows a strict rating system mandated by the National Media Council (NMC). Ratings include:
  • G (General Exhibition): Suitable for all ages.
  • PG (Parental Guidance Suggested): Some material may not be suitable for children.
  • PG13 (Parental Guidance Required for under 13): Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • 15+: No one under 15 years of age will be admitted.
  • 18+: No one under 18 years of age will be admitted.
  • 21+: No one under 21 years of age will be admitted (for very specific content).
  • It is crucial to adhere to these ratings, as cinemas strictly enforce them, often requiring ID for age verification, particularly for R15, R18, or R21 rated films. You cannot bring children into restricted movies, even if they are with an adult.
• Booking Tickets in Advance: Especially for popular new releases or weekend shows, booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This ensures you get your preferred seats and avoid disappointment, as cinemas can get quite busy.
• Dress Code: While there is no formal dress code for cinemas, dressing respectfully is always advisable in public places in Abu Dhabi.
• Food and Beverages: Cinemas offer a wide range of snacks, popcorn, and beverages. Some premium experiences (like GOLD or THEATRE) include gourmet food service directly to your seat. Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed.
• Showtimes: Movie showtimes typically start from late morning or early afternoon and continue until late at night, often with midnight or even 1 AM shows on weekends. Weekend evenings (Thursday to Saturday) are usually the busiest.
• Special Screenings: Keep an eye out for special screenings, film festivals, or niche movie events that some cinemas or cultural centers might host, occasionally featuring independent or foreign films.

The Abu Dhabi Cinematic Experience

Abu Dhabi’s cinemas are known for their modern facilities, comfortable seating, and high-quality projection and sound systems. Many cineplexes are integrated into large shopping malls, allowing you to combine your movie outing with shopping, dining, or other entertainment activities. This makes a trip to the cinema a comprehensive leisure experience.

For example, at Yas Mall, you can easily combine a movie at VOX Cinemas with a visit to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or Clymb Abu Dhabi. At Marina Mall, a movie can be part of a day that includes shopping and enjoying the waterfront views.

In essence, if you are looking to watch movies in English in Abu Dhabi, you are in luck. The city’s cinemas cater extensively to its English-speaking population, offering a seamless and enjoyable movie-going experience with the latest international releases. Just a quick check on the cinema’s website will confirm the language, and you will be all set for your cinematic adventure. The www.few.ae editor assures you of a great time at the movies in Abu Dhabi!