First drive-in cinema officially inaugurated

TDT | Manama

Bahrain’s first drive-in cinema was officially inaugurated last night in a ceremony held under the auspices of Industry, Commerce and Tourism Minister and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority chairman Zayed R Al Zayani. The event was held at the cinema’s sea-front location at Bahrain Bay, with a number of VIP guests present.

The drive-in cinema opens its doors to the public today. A project of Mukta A2 Cinemas and event management company Pico Bahrain, its establishment follows the temporary closure of cinema halls across the Kingdom as part of precautionary measures put in place to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

During the inauguration, the Industry Minister was treated to the first movie showing on the drive-in cinema’s giant screen. On this occasion, the Industry Minister affirmed that the Bahraini private sector is always keen to find innovative ways to develop the business environment in the Kingdom.

He said that drive-in cinemas are a new option these days for leading companies working in the entertainment industry to keep pace with the global changes imposed by the coronavirus crisis. Mukta A2 Cinemas COO Akshay Bajaj, who was present at the ceremony, expressed his thanks to the government of Bahrain and the relevant authorities for the opportunity to establish the drive-in cinema.

He said that the drive-in cinema is a place where people can have an enjoyable and safe experience, with ample space being given between cars. Pico Bahrain chairman Khalid Juman was also on hand. He emphasised that all measures are being taken to protect the health and safety of all, and hoped that people would enjoy the unique experience.

Two films are scheduled to be shown each week at the drive-in cinema, which can accommodate up to 100 cars. The drive-in cinema has already received a rave review, with one member of yesterday’s audience saying that enjoying a movie under the stars is a new experience.

You are also able to react or laugh loudly and use your mobile phone without having to worry about theatre etiquette, while the food is also delivered to your vehicle, the person said. As part of safety precautions, tickets are being sold online at wanasatime.com. They are available in two categories: either for two persons per vehicle or up to four people in one vehicle. In addition, a range of food and drinks are included with the ticket price.