The final countdown has begun for the unveiling of the biggest open air movie extravaganza to hit the UAE.

The inaugural Hydra Open Air Cinema UAE 2008 kicks off its 24-night carnival on November 10.

The event, which is all set to transform their movie-going experience for the cinema-loving populace of the UAE, has well and truly caught the public’s fancy going by unprecedented demand for the tickets, said a statement.

The final touches on the mammoth 4,000 sq ft screen will be boosted by 32 speaker digital surround sound. The event will be held from November 10 to the 21 in Mina Al Salam Beach  Dubai and from December 1 to December 12 at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.

“We are very happy with the response to the event so far, and the UAE seems to have embraced this concept with open arms” said Dr Sulaiman Al Fahim, the CEO of event sponsors Hydra Properties, who are responsible for making this extravaganza happen in conjunction with the Switzerland-based global entertainment giant Swiss OpenAir Concept.

“We have the perfect mix of Bollywood, Arabic and Hollywood blockbusters playing across the event, ensuring that there will be something for everyone, and the 2,000 plus people that will be at each of the nights are in for a real treat,” he promised.

The event is supported by Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) and the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH).

Speaking on the initiative, Abdulhamid Juma, chairman of DIFF, said: “At DIFF, we have a collective, far-reaching goal. Our aim is not just to grow into a platform for the best in Arab and international cinema - our vision extends to establishing Dubai and the region as a vibrant film industry hub. Events such as these enhance the overall film experience, accelerating the growth of the industry while also providing an invaluable cultural benefit to the people of Dubai and the UAE.” 

A feast befitting a cuisine connoisseur awaits guests at Hydra Open Air Cinema UAE 2008, with different menus on each of the 24 nights. The cuisine for the Dubai event will be specially prepared by Madinat Jumeirah while the Emirates Palace will do the honours at Abu Dhabi, ensuring that guests have nothing less than a five-star choice.

“We have come here with a definite goal of redefining the experience of watching movies on screen, and have gone beyond just good films and great technology to make that happen. There will also be plenty of pre-show entertainment, making it a veritable carnival of food, fun and festivities for everyone concerned. We also have Nestle Gold, a premium Swiss brand, as a contributing sponsor. This will add to the overall appeal of the event and make it a top-class affair to remember,” said Farzin Samadian, the CEO of Swiss OpenAir Concept. Corporate hospitality chalets with every conceivable luxury amenity needed to enhance the experience will also be available at the venue.

More information on the event is available at www.hydraopenair.com - TradeArabia News Service