VOX Cinemas launches new IMAX experience in Dubai with premium seating in world's first

Arabian Business

12-04-2025

VOX Cinemas, operated by Majid Al Futtaim, has unveiled what they describe as the world's most advanced IMAX theatre at Mall of the Emirates, featuring the first-ever integration of Ōma Cinema® premium pod seating within an IMAX auditorium.
The new cinema boasts IMAX's 4K Laser Projection System with proprietary optical engine technology, delivering high-resolution images with enhanced brightness and contrast.
The Next-Generation IMAX Precision Sound system distributes audio evenly throughout the custom-built auditorium, the company said in a statement.
Dubai's VOX Cinemas introduces tiered pod seating in revolutionary IMAX theatre
'In 2015, VOX Cinemas launched what was considered the best cinema in the world at Mall of the Emirates. Ten years on, we're redefining the cinema experience once again to offer our guests something so exceptional, they'll want to leave their sofa and experience the magic of cinema like never before. We're proud to offer what we believe is the best IMAX screen in the world. But this is just the beginning. We're committed to enhancing every aspect of our flagship cinema, with the next phase focusing on the Kids Cinema and social areas. Our ongoing transformation at Mall of the Emirates is meticulously designed to serve our guests, while enhancing this world-class entertainment destination,' Ignace Lahoud, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment said.
The theatre incorporates seven exclusive pods designed by Ōma Cinema® under French architect Pierre Chican's direction.
These 'THEATRE pods' feature a tiered balcony arrangement that positions viewers closer to the screen in a vertical layout.
Each pod accommodates five guests and includes VOX's THEATRE luxury amenities—reclining seats, pillows, blankets, and waiter service delivering items from a curated menu.
'World-class, flagship locations like The Mall of Emirates in Dubai showcase the strength of IMAX's fast-growing presence in the Middle East and our commitment to delivering the best possible moviegoing experience to audiences across the region. IMAX is excited to deepen its partnership with Vox Cinemas and reintroduce The Mall of Emirates on the verge of a very promising blockbuster season, and amidst one of our best years ever at the global box office,' Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX added.
The IMAX launch represents a phase in VOX Cinemas' ongoing transformation of its Mall of the Emirates location.
Previous upgrades include the THEATRE luxury concept and the conversion of Standard screens to Premier, featuring leather gliders or reclining seats paired with laser projectors. Future renovations will focus on the KIDS cinema and social areas.
Films screened at the new IMAX theatre undergo digital remastering using IMAX DMR® technology to enhance visual and audio elements frame-by-frame.