First look:We experience UAE's re-opened cinemas

We head back to the flicks to find out how we can enjoy them again

Imagine this time last year someone telling you, "oh by the way, in 12 months you won't be able to go to the cinema (or in fact do most things) for at least eight weeks". You'd have thought they were barmy. But here we are, almost two and a half months after many businesses shuttered to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and we're only just feeling our way out. What a relief. It has been a long and difficult road, but yesterday's opening of the movie theatres is one of the many wonderful glimpses of a return to somewhat normality. So, guess who was customer number one at VOX Cinemas, Mall Of The Emirates on Wednesday morning? That's right, us. As insane theatre fans, for us the re-opening was always going to be one of the key indicators we'd made it. It was a privilege to be there.
An 11am showing of the Margot Robbie vehicle Birds Of Prey was the first slot we could attend. Tickets must be booked online and the process was as straight-forward as ever. The screen's seating plan from where you choose your view is drastically reduced as a result of social distancing rendering many chairs unusable, but our favourite spot, E3, was thankfully available. It is also advisable to order food along with the tickets to make the process even easier. All prices have remained the same as before with a standard fare in a standard screening costing Dhs36.75.
Stepping into that famous lobby on the mall's top floor, we instantly felt at home. Being the sole visitor made for an unusual experience, but one we shan't forget. The now- normal stickers on the floor marking two metres of distance were scattered throughout, special ambassadors offered any friendly assistance and it was obvious a constant cleaning rota was in place.
Food picked-up, we made our way to screen 15. Uninterrupted by other movie goers, we were able to take in just how seriously the chain is taking its customers' safety. The first three rows were out of bounds and then only alternate rows were open. Each pair of chairs is then separated by another pair of chairs meaning you will not be near any other guest. For those who dislike ambient noise during a movie it is in fact going to be an enhanced experience. We were just happy to be able to return.   
Social distancing: 5/5
Hygiene: 5/5
Birds of Prey: 3/5 
david@khaleejtimes.com