Dubai Hosts an ‘Out of this World' Event for Star Trek Beyond Premiere

• The film is a testament to the Emirate as a powerful contender in the international film and production industry.
• The premiere was attended by senior officials and media figures, filmmakers and celebrities.
• The event showcased exclusive Trekkie collector’s items, costumes and original props from the film.

Dubai, UAE, July 20, 2016:  The Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC) and Dubai Studio City (DSC) hosted a dazzling event last night for Star Trek Beyond, the third installment of the globally renowned science-fiction franchise. The Hollywood blockbuster showcased Dubai’s iconic locations in key futuristic scenes including: Burj Al Arab, Al Mas Tower in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Central Park in DIFC, Meydan and the Sound Stages in Dubai Studio City. 

Held at Novo Cinemas in Ibn Battuta Mall, the premiere was attended by senior officials, media figures, filmmakers and local celebrities, as well as key social media influencers including: Victor Ortiz (T3M3), Ankit Ohja (Cinema Elite), Abeer Abura and Moey Shawash.

The setting for the evening was transformed into an immersive Trekkie universe, adorned with the franchise’s signature colors, blue and white. Upon arrival, guests were greeted by hostesses dressed in uniforms as crew members of the Starfleet organization. Guests were then taken through a dramatic arch entrance which was made to resemble the bridge of the Enterprise, where a blue carpet led them to the premiere reception.

The lounge area held marvelous activations for guests to enjoy, such as the futuristically themed snack bar, as well as exclusive Star Trek memorabilia and unique collectibles from previous films and TV series. Look-a-like characters such as Captain Kirk, Spock, as well as new characters Jaylah and Krall, were part of the attendees entertaining the guests. Original props from Star Trek Beyond were also on display, including a torpedo, the Captain’s chair, and a replica of the teleporter.

The evening concluded with the screening of the anticipated film of the year, which has been hailed in reviews as a terrific 50th anniversary salute to the series. The film was preceded with a loving tribute to Leonard Nimoy and Anton Yelchin. 

Jamal Al Sharif, Chairman of Dubai Film and TV Commission and Managing Director of Dubai Studio City said: “It is a great achievement and success for us to see Dubai rising in the awaited Star Trek Beyond film. The journey from last year’s scouting to shooting in Dubai and up until last night’s premiere has been really incredible for us, and was a testament for Dubai’s capability in supporting large scale international productions. We are very proud with the results and very pleased that Dubai has witnessed a stunning premiere of one of the highly anticipated Hollywood films of the year. 

Jamal continued: “Paramount Pictures, the studio behind the film, is one of many global film production giants who have recognized the Emirate as a leading filming destination in the region. We are confident that Star Trek Beyond will further boost Dubai and UAE’s global profile in the film, tourism and entertainment industries.” 

Debbie Stanford-Kristiansen, CEO NOVO Cinemas, also said: Thanks to our exclusive partnership with Dubai Film and TV Commission, we were able to transform Novo Cinemas’ flagship theatre at Ibn Battuta Mall into a Trekkie universe last night – creating the ultimate destination to showcase the Middle East premiere of this blockbuster, which will go down in Dubai film history. As with all our screens across the region, we were able to transcend the senses of our VIP patrons, taking them beyond the everyday cinema experience. 

Following the event, guests were invited to a post event celebration hosted by the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF), AG and ELEQT, who launched ‘Road to DIFF’ at the brand new venues ‘Copper Dog’ and ‘Ramusake’ located at the Double Tree Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Residences and sponsored by Sony Mobile MEA. 

Star Trek Beyond will be released in the cinemas across the UAE on the 21st of July.