Movie on the go for workers in Dubai
dubai — A double decker bus, designed to convert into a movie screen, is currently roaming around workers’ accommodations in Dubai to provide entertainment to the underprivileged.
Mobile Cinema, which is a modified London Double Decker Bus, aims to provide unique movie experience and games to 15,000 workers in at least 20 workers’ accommodations across Dubai in 20 days.
Equipped with movie projection screen and sound system provided by Vox Cinemas, the bus has already covered five workers’ accommodations, with the rest of the camps lined up until June 27.
Transguard, Al Naboodah and Khansaheb workers’ accommodations will be the next stops for the bus.
Jay Menorca, events manager at Light Source Advertising, the organisers, said workers don’t usually have enough resources to watch a film or do something for fun. The initiative gives them a chance to gather with friends and give them a taste of home.
“Bringing them entertainment at their doorstep makes them feel special, and gives them the opportunity to enjoy a movie experience,” said Menorca.
Starting at 4pm, the bus provides iftar, organises games and raffles before screening the Salman Khan’s film Sultan. A 10x4 metre projection screen is hoisted on the side of the 5-metrehigh bus, providing an instant movie experience.
“We noticed that most companies carry out entertainment activities at workers’ accommodations for maximum of three days due to logistic challenges. Our idea focused on being
Bringing them entertainment at their doorstep makes them feel special. The aim is to provide gifts and care to our community’s unsung heroes during the holy month.” Jay Menorca, events manager, Light Source Advertising
sustainable and providing the maximum experience using as little resources as possible to cut setup time,” said Menorca.
“The screen is already hoisted on the bus, and all equipment we need is stocked inside the bus, which makes the setup easy.”
The team reached out to Henkel, the main sponsor of the event, Emirates NBD and Exchanger Volunteers for support. The movie screening is supported by VOX Cinemas and Yash Raj Films.
A Henkel representative said: “Ramadan is a time to spend with people close to us and with thousands of workers in Dubai a long way from their families, we hope this gives a taste of home and the opportunity to spend time with friends.”
Residents who spot the Mobile Cinema Bus roaming around the city can post a picture on social media and tag ‘Mobile Cinema Dubai’ to win gifts from Henkel and Vox Cinemas movie tickets.
sherouk@khaleejtimes.com
What’s life without fun?
Let’s not underestimate the power of entertainment, more so in the life of the less privileged. Simple joys of watching their favourite actors on screen, or movies can relax tired minds and lighten up evenings. The Mobile Cinema initiative is likely to bring smiles and make labourers happy. How about authorities make it a regular feature, one that happens weekly?