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4 places to watch movies for free around UAE

Dubai - Enjoy a good storyline minus the payment

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Ah, movies - one of humanity's greatest and oldest forms of entertainment. Cinema has long fascinated viewers that even up to this very day, people still flock to the location. This is despite there is a rise of streaming services, and other platforms by which to enjoy good film. Many will say that seeing a movie inside a cinema is a different experience from seeing the same film from say Netflix, or through a DVD. This statement goes to show that up until this very day - nothing could beat the experience of stepping inside a cinema.
While seeing a film is still affordable nowadays, not everyone has the luxury of spending north of Dh35 to see a film every weekend (if you are, you're the 1%). Thankfully, there are some venues in Dubai and Abu Dhabi where you can have the cinema experience - minus the Dh35 (or more if you see films in VIP) ticket.

The Scene Club

The Scene Club is a group that plays some of the best independent films in town. They also have foreign films in their stable. The Club has a huge following in the UAE and that could be attested by the 3,000 guests they accommodate per year. They screen films in The Roxy City Walk. There is registration on site for the seats, but otherwise it's free.

LOCO'MOTION

LOCO'MOTION screens films for free and they also support various social causes. Until June, they were near the Archive in Dubai's Safa Park. New locations and screenings are shared by the group on their Meetup page.

Cinema Akil

Launched in 2014, Cinema Akil's goal is simple - to bring great films from across the globe to the UAE audiences. It's an audience supported programme where viewers can buy some of their delicious cookies. It's these sweet treats that keeps the cinema running. This summer, they are in Dubai's Warehouse 68, where they have screenings every night. Worth noting is that they are fervent supporters of the UAE's independent film industry. Here is a full calendar of all their screenings.

Cinema Space

Abu Dhabi's Cinema Space specialises in bringing back great cinematic classics in the form of masterfully restored pieces. This new life to cinema hallmarks makes them a more engaging experience to audiences both young and old. Their programmers are open and free for all and you only need to RSVP to any screenings you wish to be in.
- keith@khaleejtimes.com