The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai
Fun fact for cinephiles: Outdoor movies got big in the 1920s (over a hundred years ago!) alongside silent films.
Today, open-air flicks still have that movie magic. From drive-ins to park screenings, they’re a hit worldwide, even in the UAE.
So if you’re up for an epic outdoor cinema experience in Dubai, explore our top picks below for a “film-tastic” time under the stars!
Where can I find outdoor cinemas in Dubai?
There are many places where you can find outdoor cinemas in Dubai. You can check out open-air spots like Jumeirah Beach Residence, Zero Gravity, VOX Moonlight, and Cinema Akil for a chill movie night under the stars!
JBR Winter Movie Nights
Website: https://jbr.ae/en/events/what-to-do/jbr-winter-nights
Address: The Beach, opposite – The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: 0412312312
Movie Schedule:
- Varies around October to January – Every Friday & Saturday – 7 PM
Ticket Fees:
- Free on a first-come, first-served basis
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is among the ultimate waterfront movie spots in Dubai. Featuring classics like “Home Alone” and “Shrek,” we think this outdoor cinema is a blast for families and movie lovers alike.
With the stunning Dubai Marina as its backdrop, JBR offers more than just feature films. Picture cozy blankets, popcorn, and a refreshing sea breeze—you’re in for a treat!
But the best part for us is that it’s all free! And with screenings, kids’ activities, and entertainment, we reckon parents can use this chance to bond with their little ones in many ways under the stars.
Pro tip:
Why not add some extra fun at JBR by bringing glow sticks, LED candles, or fairy lights? Not only does it set the mood, but we feel the kids would love the extra sparkle, adding to the movie magic!
Zero Gravity
Website: http://0-gravity.ae/
Address: Dubai Marina, Skydive Dubai Drop Zone – King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 399 0009, [email protected]
Movie Schedule:
- Doors open at 7 PM
Ticket Fees:
- AED 75, which can be used for food and drinks
Zero Gravity, a hotspot for open-air movie geeks, screens blockbuster hits against Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence’s stunning backdrop. You can even lounge on the sand under the stars for a comfy and unforgettable experience!
With classics like “A Star is Born” and favorites like “Titanic” and “Top Gun” on rotation, we believe there’s always something exciting to watch here.
You can also kick back and relax on customized chairs and bean bags while enjoying the show. And don’t worry about snacks—your ticket fee is fully redeemable for tasty treats like popcorn, nachos, and burgers.
Pro tip:
Before the movie starts at Zero Gravity, keep those pesky bugs at bay by spraying on some bug repellent. We think it’s a handy way to enjoy the outdoor cinema without any annoying interruptions.
VOX Moonlight
Website: https://uae.voxcinemas.com/ways-to-watch/outdoor#galleria
Address: Galleria Mall – Al Wasl Rd – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 600 599905, [email protected]
Movie Schedule:
- Sunday to Thursday
Ticket Fees:
- Kids Package – AED 90
- Standard Couch Package for 1 guest – AED 137 on weekdays
- Standard Couch Package for 1 guest – AED 158 on weekends
- VIP Couch Package for 2 guests – AED 316 on weekdays
- VIP Couch Package for 2 guests – AED 368 on weekends
VOX Moonlight is a posh outdoor cinema perched atop the Galleria Mall in Dubai. No need to venture far after a day of shopping—just relax and catch your fave flick without leaving the mall.
Recently revamped, we love that this single-screen cinema offers plush custom sofas, bean bags, and sun loungers to give the most comfort.
With its boutique vibe and surround sound, the outdoor theater can cater to around 100 guests, creating an intimate setting for the latest releases.
Pro tip:
Treat yourself to the VIP experience at VOX Moonlight and consider snagging a private cabana! This way, you get to enjoy a fancy dining menu that will take your movie night to the next level.
Cinema Akil
Website: http://www.cinemaakil.com/
Address: Al Serkal Avenue – Warehouse 68 – Al Quoz – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 56 995 1225, [email protected]
Movie Schedule:
- Monday to Sunday – depends on the movie screening
Ticket Fees:
- Free
If you’re craving an exciting movie getaway, Cinema Akil has got you covered with a diverse lineup of global hits, including animated flicks for the little ones. Whether you’re into classics or foreign films, there’s something for all ages.
We also believe this outdoor cinema experience becomes even cozier during winter nights—think comfy seating and vintage film posters, all under the Dubai sky! Make sure to layer up for a warm and snug movie night.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on grabbing a steaming hot karak (that’s the good ol’ traditional tea) before the movie starts. For us, it can totally amp up your movie-watching game!
Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) Cinema
Website: https://jlt.ae/whats-on/cinema-under-the-stars-2024
Address: Saba Towers – 34GW+M72 – Jumeirah Lake Towers – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 (0) 4 424 9600
Movie Schedule:
- Dates depend on the movie screenings – 7:30 PM
Ticket Fees:
- Free
Jumeirah Lakes Towers hosts a rad outdoor cinema at JLT Park in Dubai. Think of yourself under the stars with fellow movie lovers, enjoying Marvel hits and Disney classics!
You can snuggle up on the grass, soak up the cool breeze, and just dive into the movie magic. It’s a mini adventure every week, and guess what—it’s all on the house! Just remember to sign up in advance to secure your spot.
Pro tip:
We reckon it can get a bit chilly at JLT, so don’t forget to bring your blanket before heading over for a snug vibe.
Sofitel Dubai Downtown
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 503 6115 (Phone), +971 56 996 0582 (Mobile), [email protected]
Movie Schedule:
- Dates depend on the movie screening – 7 PM to 10 PM
Ticket Fees:
- Regular – AED 75 credit for snacks at Sofitel Pool and Lounge
- Special Couple Package – AED 349 with food and beverage options
The Sofitel Dubai Downtown offers some of the best movies for screen junkies in the city. You can chill under the stars with the epic downtown skyline and the iconic Burj Khalifa in sight. For us, it’s like a movie scene come to life!
Now, we reckon the regular price is fair enough for a solid time. But hey, why not splurge a little and go for the special couple package for your date? It’s a way to treat yourselves now and then.
With the couple option, you could get a grape bottle. Alternatively, you can take a hops bucket (a sampler of different brews), popcorn, cotton candy, and your choice of 2 snacks. Sounds dreamy, right?
Roxy Cinemas Outdoor at Galleria Al Barsha
Website: https://www.theroxycinemas.com/Location/galleria-mall%20barsha
Address: Galleria Mall – Al Barsha – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 800 7699, [email protected]
Movie Schedule:
- Depends on the movie screening
Ticket Fees:
- Starts at AED 40
Roxy Cinemas Outdoor at Galleria Al Barsha provides a VIP film fest for movie fans. You can rest on comfy couches or bean bags, with the night sky as your backdrop and your favorite flick on the screen.
But we like that this isn’t like your typical outdoor cinema. You’ll have access to a private lounge and a menu featuring delicious dishes from Tashas. And don’t worry, your favorite Novo cinema snacks are also on the menu!
Pro tip:
Just note that Tasha’s menu at Roxy Cinemas Outdoor is available until 10 pm. For late-night shows, you could enjoy classic movie snacks like popcorn or nachos instead!