Discover the best of Emirati cinema, film, and television
Discover the definitive list of popular and critically-acclaimed movies and TV shows from United Arab Emirates. Find your next binge-watch, streaming on Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Prime Video, and other top services!
The cinema of United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates represents one of the most exciting emerging film markets in the Middle East, transforming from a cinema-watching culture into a genuine filmmaking powerhouse. While filmmaking is a fledgling industry in the UAE, watching films in cinemas dates back to the 1940s, establishing a foundation of film appreciation that would eventually bloom into creative production. The breakthrough moment came in 2005 when "The Dream" became the first Emirati film to be distributed in cinemas across the UAE, though "Aber Sabeel" by Ali Al Abdool is considered the first Emirati feature film made in the UAE in 1989. This milestone paved the way for contemporary directors like Ali F Mostafa and Nayla Al Khaja, who have enriched Emirati culture through their distinctive storytelling approaches. Dubai has positioned itself as a regional hub through the Dubai International Film Festival, launched in 2004, and the state-of-the-art Dubai Studio City, which attracts international productions alongside nurturing local talent. The emirate's gleaming skylines and diverse landscapes have made it a favourite filming location for both regional and Hollywood productions. Television is experiencing remarkable growth, with local productions gaining international recognition. Netflix has begun commissioning UAE content, including adaptations like "Love is Blind, Habibi" and groundbreaking series featuring people of determination. The streaming revolution has also made the UAE a crucial market for global content providers. What makes UAE cinema unique is its multicultural perspective, reflecting the country's position as a global crossroads where East meets West, creating stories that resonate across diverse audiences whilst maintaining authentic Emirati voices.
Best Emirati series
Al Hayba 2017
In a village by the Lebanon-Syria border, the head of an arms-smuggling clan contends with family conflicts, power struggles and complicated love.
80
Dubai Bling 2022
Step off the private jet and into a high-flying social circle in Dubai, where lavish parties, stunning skylines and jaw-dropping fashion are the norm.
55
Love Is Blind, Habibi 2024
Celebrity couple Khaled Saqer and Elham Ali host this social experiment, where Arab singles connect and commit to marriage — before meeting face-to-face.
60
Tash Ma Tash 1993
A Saudi series that sheds light on the different issues of Saudi society in a lighthearted way, each episode with a different story.
70
Khawatir 2005
A TV show devoted to help young people to be mature in their faith, work & knowledge
75Almeerath 2020
In a toxic environment filled in hatred and deceit. Abdel Mohsen dies leaving a will that shows the true metal of everyone around him.
100
Best Emirati movies
Contagion 2011
As an epidemic of a lethal airborne virus - that kills within days - rapidly grows, the worldwide medical community races to find a cure and control the panic that spreads faster than the virus itself.
70
Flight 2012
Commercial airline pilot Whip Whitaker has a problem with drugs and alcohol, though so far he's managed to complete his flights safely. His luck runs out when a disastrous mechanical malfunction sends his plane hurtling toward the ground. Whip pulls off a miraculous crash-landing that results in only six lives lost. Shaken to the core, Whip vows to get sober -- but when the crash investigation exposes his addiction, he finds himself in an even worse situation.
72
The Crazies 2010
Four friends find themselves trapped in their small hometown after they discover their friends and neighbors going quickly and horrifically insane.
66
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel 2012
British retirees travel to India to take up residence in what they believe is a newly restored hotel. Less luxurious than its advertisements, the Marigold Hotel nevertheless slowly begins to charm in unexpected ways as the residents find new purpose in their old age.
74
Urban Legend 1998
A college campus is plagued by a vicious serial killer murdering students in ways that correspond to various urban legends.
61
Fair Game 2010
A devoted wife and mother leads a secret life as a CIA agent until her husband’s article exposes a scandal, putting her identity and loved ones at risk. As her world crumbles, she must navigate the fallout of her double life.
67