Cinépolis, the world’s fourth largest cinema exhibitor, is set to open its first location in Bahrain as the brand made its official entry into the GCC’s movie theatre sector. The biggest cinema chain in Latin America, Cinépolis, which also operates theatres in the US, Spain and across India, opened its new location at the Atrium Mall, Saar, Bahrain, on 31st January 2019.

Founded in Mexico in 1971, Cinépolis boasts more than 338 million guests and 5,707 screens worldwide. Bahrain expands the company footprint to 16 countries. Ashish Shukla, CEO of Cinépolis Gulf, believes that with easy access for visitors from Saudi as well as Bahraini and expatriate film-goers, an extensive range of luxury viewing options, the latest big-screen technology, family-focused screenings and gastronomic F&B options, Cinépolis is braced to become an important player in the GCC movie sector.

“The launch of the first Cinépolis Gulf location in Bahrain is a proud moment for the brand and we are honoured to bring our world-class cinema to the region,” said Mr Shukla. “We know how much the community in Bahrain and KSA loves movies, and we are relishing the opportunity to present a premium yet wonderfully accessible cinema experience that can be enjoyed by all. Our location just off the Causeway will prove incredibly convenient for Bahrainis and Saudis alike, and we hope we can become a central part of the community for all. We are offering Cinema like never before to the Bahrain community.”

The Gulf’s first Cinépolis, in Bahrain, features 13-screens, including Bahrain’s first-ever Junior theatre and 4D E-motion viewing experience, as well as two large format screens, MacroXE with Dolby Atmos, object-based sound, and seating options which include rocking leather chairs and fully reclining leather seats, along with gourmet food and drink options. Located at the most prominent mall on the left of the King Fahd Causeway as soon as you enter Bahrain from the Saudi Arabian city of Khobar, the Cinépolis cinema is ideally placed for visitors from the KSA as well.

Cinépolis Junior, the only children-focused cinema screen in Bahrain, is equipped with a Jungle Gym, bean bag seating and provides a 15-minute intermission to allow youngsters to take a break. Only films rated G or PG will be shown in this theatre.

Another cinematic experience that Cinépolis will offer the community is its state-of-the-art 4D E-motion experience. This immersive theatre format allows cinema-goers to “live” the movie, including motion seats and special effects such as wind, water, motion, smell and air shots, all perfectly synchronized with the action on the screen.

As well as serving traditional cinema snacks such as popcorn and nachos, the in-house ‘Coffee Tree’ venue offers gourmet items including paninis, crêpes and high-quality specialty coffee. In keeping with the move towards web-based bookings, downloadable apps (search for Cinépolis Bahrain in Appstore and Playstore) and new technologies designed to prioritise ease of use for customers, Cinépolis Atrium in Saar, Bahrain, will provide an online booking system.

His Excellency Sheikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, the Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, highlighted the value added to the tourism and entertainment sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain by launching this significant project. He said, “with the new and unique experience delivered to the nationals, expats and the visitors of the Kingdom, this opening adds a valuable element to the tourism and trading attractions in the Kingdom of Bahrain.”