UAE: Celebrating 80 years of the country's first cinema

On May 4th, 1943, the first cinematic film was shown in the UAE, marking a significant moment in the nation's history. The cinema was introduced in what is now home to the Al Mahatta Museum in Sharjah. As the UAE celebrates the 80th anniversary of this momentous occasion, historian and researcher Ali Iqbal Chaudhry sheds light on the fascinating story behind the nation's first-ever cinema.

During World War II, a Royal Air Force (RAF) squadron was stationed in Sharjah to protect Allied ships operating in the Gulf and the Sea of Oman from German U-boats and Japanese and Italian submarines. “The squadron utilised Bristol Blenheim aircraft, which were notorious for mechanical issues and engine failures,” said Chaudhry, “and in order to boost morale, the decision was made to open a cinema.”

The historian noted that he recently came across a statement in the archives of the squadron posted at Sharjah which states ‘Station Cinema Opened and was large Success’.

“This is the very first recorded showing of a cinematic film in the UAE and this year we celebrate its 80th anniversary,” Chaudhry said.

The outdoor cinema, with seats of used petrol tins and water cans, quickly gained popularity among both RAF personnel and the local Emirati population. The screen was projected on a wall that is now located behind the courtyard of Al Mahatta and can still be viewed to this day.

Another entry in the record book for the 12th of September that same year states, 'The usual weekly showing for the Arab Population was again very well attended'. “The fact that everyone was welcomed and that the screenings went down well with the Emirati population serves as testimony of the excellent relationship that existed between the Emirati hosts and their Allied guests,” Chaudhry added.

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