Cinema Akil

Cinema Akil is the UAE’s pioneering independent cinema, dedicated to showcasing acclaimed international films to audiences in the UAE. Launched in 2014 as a nomadic cinema, Cinema Akil has hosted over 75 pop-up cinemas, attracting more than 85,000 attendees in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. In 2022, Cinema Akil expanded its reach, organizing its first regional pop-up in Doha during the World Cup, followed by another pop-up in Al Ula, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2023. The company's first permanent location, situated in Al Quoz, Dubai, was established in September 2018, in partnership with Alserkal. Furthermore, in November 2023, Cinema Akil in 25hours Hotel Dubai inaugurated a purpose-built space, serving as a seasonal outdoor outpost and a multipurpose venue in Dubai One Central. While pioneering the region's film exhibition landscape, Cinema Akil launched the UAE’s inaugural Arab Cinema Week in 2022, celebrating Arab Cinema and hosting global film festivals that brought innovative cinematic artworks from Hong Kong and Italy to the GCC region. As a member of the Network of Arab Alternative Screens (NAAS), Cinema Akil is connected with other influential members in the MENA region, including Metropolis in Beirut, Zawya in Cairo, and Cinematheque du Tangier in Morocco. Overall, Cinema Akil has significantly contributed to popularizing independent and international cinema in the GCC, establishing itself as a vital platform for promoting film and the cinematic arts while fostering cultural exchange in the region.