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The National
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The National
Why F1 The Movie saved its biggest scene for Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina Circuit
Abu Dhabi 's Yas Marina Circuit isn't just home to some of the most memorable moments in Formula One history – it's now the setting of one of the most ambitious racing sequences in Hollywood history. The finale of F1 The Movie, directed by Top Gun: Maverick filmmaker Joseph Kosinski, was filmed on location during a race weekend in the UAE capital. The production team merged the high-speed action of real-world Formula One with precision filmmaking, enlisting a massive crew that included 280 UAE-based professionals and 15 home-grown interns. 'This was a massive undertaking,' Mohamed Dobay, acting director general of the Creative Media Authority, tells the The National at the film's regional premiere, held at the same circuit where it all took place. 'For this movie, we had nearly 280 local crew members working on set. In addition to that, around 500 crew members came from abroad – places like Hungary, Romania, Canada, the US and the UK.' The film's cast and crew filmed at the Yas Marina Circuit for a total of 29 days across three shoots – with key sequences filmed at the 2023 and 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix races. Emirati Saleh Al Zaabi, a media studies graduate from Zayed University, was one of the interns supporting the production. He trained in the camera department and says working closely with professionals enriched his knowledge of filmmaking. 'I'm truly honoured to have had this learning experience,' Saleh says. Saleh was particularly interested in the equipment used for the thrilling on-board sequences, for which cameras were assembled and attached to the actors' cars. 'The cameras themselves were actually prototypes of a special Sony model, custom-made for mounting on Formula One cars,' he says. 'This experience reassured me that I'm capable of handling myself on large-scale productions. When I go back out into the field, I'll feel confident that I can take on whatever challenges come my way.' How Abu Dhabi assembled its interns for F1 This is the experience that Aysha Al Jneibi, director of talent management at the Creative Media Authority, had hoped the interns would have. Al Jneibi runs initiatives that place talented locals on projects in film, music, journalism, storytelling, digital marketing and other creative media. She says that for F1 The Movie, they whittled down a list 50 applicants and nominees to fill the 15 positions. 'All of our interns go through a screening and development process,' Al Jneibi explains. 'They typically begin by working on smaller local productions, such as documentaries or short films, before progressing to larger-scale projects. 'By the time they're selected for a major international production like F1 The Movie, they've already gained significant experience and training. At that point, they're not just learning on set – they're contributing and proving their capabilities.' While Dobay acknowledges that a skills disparity remains between local and international talent in some areas, the growing UAE industry is closing the gap. 'For example, in areas like stunts we currently lack local professionals, so we've been working to attract international stunt companies,' Dobay says. 'Stunts are just one area. There are also technical aspects like VFX and explosives that still require outside expertise. But we're actively working to develop these capabilities, and we're optimistic that, over time, we'll build a well-rounded local talent pool.' How UAE-based interns supported production Margarita Sataeva, from Russia, interned in the make-up and casting departments during the shoots. She says her first responsibility 'was to input background actors' information into the system so they could access the set'. During the second section of shooting, her main role was ensuring continuity for the actors in the background of a shot. 'I would take continuity photos of the extras, ensure their appearance matched previous scenes, and do touch-ups to maintain consistency,' Sataeva says. Emirati Hamdah Abdulrhman was an intern in the production department. She says her responsibilities included creating badges and passes for crew members and 'putting together welcome kits for everyone arriving from out of town'. 'I also helped organise the equipment ordered by the film crew and made sure it was delivered to the garages where the racing cars were kept.' Abdulrhman said of the experience: 'It helped me realise that production offers so many different paths, and it's really expanded my confidence in what I can do. 'This was my first experience working on a Hollywood film, and it gave me real motivation to aim higher. It inspired me to dream of becoming a filmmaker and director – someone whose work is seen not just locally, but around the world.' Building the UAE film industry Local internships have been part of every international production in Abu Dhabi and Dobay says that it has been great to see the number of interns rise. 'That's a big plus for us because it means our local talent pool is growing. One of the main objectives of hosting large-scale productions in Abu Dhabi is to help develop that local talent.' Abu Dhabi continues to host and assist international film and television production, made more attractive by the tax rebates it offers. Head of the Abu Dhabi Film Commission Sameer Al Jaberi says successes with productions such as Star Wars, Mission Impossible and Dune have created a good reputation for the city and its capabilities. 'Reputation and trust play a huge role in our industry, which relies heavily on word of mouth,' says Al Jaberi. 'Our previous successes have built a strong track record for Abu Dhabi and helped us earn the trust of international producers and studios.' Al Jaberi says the film commission's role is to support productions with everything they could need. 'We act as the link between government entities and the production companies to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.'
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi shows it has formula for success at premiere of F1 movie at Yas Marina Circuit
26 June 2025 22:52 KHALED AL KHAWALDEH (ABU DHABI)The red carpet was rolled out at Yas Marina Circuit on Wednesday night, not for a Grand Prix, but for the much-anticipated premiere of F1, the motorsports blockbuster starring Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt and directed by Top Gun Maverick filmmaker Joseph premiere, ahead of the international release of the movie on June 26, marked a full-circle moment for the UAE capital, where large portions of the movie were shot over 26 days in late 2024, with filming taking place in and around Yas Marina Circuit during the Formula 1 season. The project represents a new milestone in Abu Dhabi's growing reputation as a global hub for Hollywood movie shoots. Speaking to Aletihad at the premiere, Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority (CMA), expressed pride in Abu Dhabi's starring role in the production. 'We are proud to have the F1 movie premiere in Abu Dhabi after a huge experience and success during the production,' he said.'It's remarkable. The film stars a blockbuster name like Brad Pitt and is directed by Joseph Kosinski, and it showcases the strength of Abu Dhabi's creative industry on a global scale.'The film follows Pitt's character, Sonny Hayes, a former driver dragged back into the fast-paced world of Formula 1 to mentor young racing ace Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris, blending dramatic storytelling with authentic, high-speed racing sequences shot during real races. That realism was made possible thanks to close coordination between film crews, Formula 1 organisers, and Abu Dhabi officials - a feat that earned praise from industry professionals. 'This only confirms the work we've put in over the years to develop the infrastructure to attract productions like F1,' Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, told Aletihad on red carpet. 'We started communicating with the studio three years ago. We worked closely to determine what could be filmed in Abu Dhabi, which locations worked, and what support we could offer, from budget planning to talent and crew.'Abu Dhabi's ability to facilitate filming during a live Formula 1 race was hailed as a landmark accomplishment in global film production. A video screened at the premiere also highlighted Abu Dhabi's hospitality, as a filming destination.'Filming at Yas Marina Circuit, during an actual race, and coordinating the film shoot and the live event without disruption, that by itself is a great achievement,' Al Jaberi added. 'It was brilliantly orchestrated and went very smoothly.'The Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the final race destination of the F1 season, provided a visually stunning backdrop for the film's climactic scenes. Audiences at the premiere were treated to a screening that combined the roar of engines with sweeping aerial shots and emotionally charged performances, blending Hollywood spectacle with real-world racing hope is that the F1 movie could propel more high-profile productions to Abu Dhabi. The emirate's competitive rebate programme, state-of-the-art facilities, experienced crews, and stunning locations have already drawn filmmakers from around the notable movies filmed in the capital include 'Mission: Impossible – Fallout', '6 Underground', and 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens.'As the lights dimmed and the opening credits rolled at Yas Marina Circuit, it was clear the event was more than a film premiere, it was a celebration of how far Abu Dhabi has come as a cinematic destination. With Brad Pitt's star power and Kosinski's directorial vision drawing global attention, the city's investment in the creative economy looks to be paying off.
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi Stages Regional Premiere of F1: The Movie on Bespoke Yas Marina Circuit Cinema
26 June 2025 21:30 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Abu Dhabi rolled out the red carpet for the highly anticipated regional premiere of F1: The Movie, delivering an unforgettable cinematic celebration on Yas Marina Circuit, one of the film's most iconic filming event featured a purpose-built cinema, special guest activations, and a red carpet attended by film pioneers and special red carpet welcomed influential figures, including senior leadership from the Creative Media Authority (CMA) and Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC), who partnered closely on the production, were joined by representatives from key supporting partners including Etihad Airways, the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, and Yas Marina Director General of the Creative Media Authority, Mohamed Dobay, commented, "This premiere reflects the power of collaboration across Abu Dhabi's creative ecosystem. By transforming Yas Marina Circuit into a one-of-a-kind cinema experience, we have shown what is possible when regional talent, partners and robust infrastructure come together. It is a testament to Abu Dhabi's growing role as a hub for world-class productions."Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, Sameer Al Jaberi, added, "Bringing F1: The Movie to life and transforming Yas Marina Circuit into a live production set reflects the versatility and capability of Abu Dhabi as a filming destination. The project also highlights the strength of our rebate programme, the commitment of our local crews, and the collective support of our partners across the Emirate."The premiere event also aligned with the film's full production wrap, which was completed during the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit in December 2024. This marked the first time a feature film captured on-track action during a live Formula 1 race guest experience featured driving simulators, exclusive car displays, and partner watch showcases, reflecting the wider world of Formula 1 and the global partners involved in both the sport and the film's also included displays of the official APXGP Formula 1 car and the APXGP race helmet worn by Damson Idris at the Met Gala earlier this year, bringing key elements of the film and the sport to life for attendees.F1: The Movie was filmed extensively across Abu Dhabi during three separate production visits, with support from ADFC's rebate programme. Over 29 filming days, the production engaged 284 local crew members and multiple interns through CMA's talent development programmes. Filming took place across multiple locations, including Yas Marina Circuit, Zayed International Airport, and twofour54 Studios at Yas Creative Hub, with local production services delivered by Epic Films. The premiere event itself was further supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who contributed across guest services, red carpet management, and logistical film was produced by Apple Studios in collaboration with Formula 1 Management, FIA, and all 10 Formula 1 teams, and is distributed globally by Warner Bros. Pictures. It is now screening in cinemas across the region from June 26, 2025.
The National
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Guide to Korean Film Festival 2025 in Abu Dhabi and Dubai: Parasite, The Host and live concerts
The Korean Film Festival is returning for its 9th iteration with screenings at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai. This year's event is themed around music, showcasing how sound and storytelling can come together to create powerful cinematic experiences. In addition to the film showings, there will also be two special K-Movie OST (original soundtrack) live concerts that feature memorable music from the films being screened at the festival. As part of the event's commitment to cultural exchange and regional collaboration, the programme includes a special screening of six Arab Film Studio titles on Saturday in Abu Dhabi, presented in partnership with the Creative Media Authority. The films set to be shown include Sound of Memories by Gargi Chakrabarti, The First Note by Laith AlRamahi and Laura Saab's I See a Woman. 'The Korean Film Festival has a long and meaningful history in the UAE, consistently showcasing Korean cinema and engaging with local audiences over the years," said Lee Yong-hee, director of the Korean Cultural Centre in the UAE. "This year, we are proud to expand that engagement even further, by introducing a special Arab film showcase and hosting live K-Movie OST concerts for the first time. These additions reflect our commitment to deeper cultural exchange and creating shared experiences through film and music. Parasite (2019) Abu Dhabi: Thursday at 7pm Dubai: June 27 at 4.30pm The opening film is Bong Joon-ho 's historic Oscar-winning Best Picture about a poor family that slowly infiltrates the lives of a wealthy household by posing as unrelated professionals – a tutor, art therapist, chauffeur and housekeeper. Soon, all of them find a way to work within the same household and start living a parasitic life. C'est Si Bon (2015) Abu Dhabi: Friday at 4pm Directed by Kim Hyun-seok, C'est Si Bon is set in the 1960s and inspired by real events. The film centres on the storied music lounge C'est Si Bon in Seoul. It follows two young men who team up to form a duo that would become part of the famous folk group Twin Folio. As they rise in the music scene, they both fall for the same woman, introducing a bittersweet love triangle amid a backdrop of political tension and creative passion. Secret: Untold Melody (2025) Abu Dhabi: Friday at 7pm A police detective haunted by guilt after an affair and a hit-and-run accident is forced to investigate a murder that bears a suspicious connection to his wife. As he uncovers disturbing truths and hidden motives, he must confront his own past sins while grappling with a dangerous web of betrayal and secrecy. It is directed by Seo You-min. My Beautiful Girl, Mari (2002) Abu Dhabi: Saturday at 2pm Dubai: June 28 at 5pm Lee Seong-gang's animated fantasy film follows Nam-woo, a young boy coping with loneliness and the changes of adolescence. When he discovers a magical marble, he's transported to a dreamlike world where he meets a mysterious and ethereal girl named Mari. The film blends imagination with reality to explore themes of growing up. Jaurim, The Wonderland (2024) Abu Dhabi: Saturday at 6pm, followed by a Q&A with the film's director Dubai: June 28 at 7pm Kim Ji-hwan's documentary dives into the 25-year history of the South Korean rock band, Jaurim. Through interviews, behind-the-scenes footage and concert clips, the film captures the band's evolution, creative struggles and enduring connection with fans, while offering a closer look at the cost and joy of artistic pursuit in South Korea's music industry. The director will also host a Q&A session after the film's screening in Abu Dhabi. Dog Days (2024) Abu Dhabi: Sunday at 2pm This ensemble comedy-drama interweaves the stories of several people in Seoul who are brought together by their relationships with dogs. Each character – ranging from a vet to a lonely teenager – experiences growth, healing or change through their bond with a canine companion. The film is an exploration of the quiet ways pets shape human lives. A Tale of Two Sisters (2003) Abu Dhabi: Sunday at 4.30pm Dubai: June 29 at 3pm Based on a Korean folktale, Kim Jee-woon's psychological horror centres on two sisters, Su-mi and Su-yeon, who return home after a stay in a psychiatric hospital. Tension builds between them and their stepmother in a house filled with eerie presences and disturbing memories. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes unclear what is real and what is imagined, leading to a revelation about trauma, guilt and grief. The Host (2006) Dubai: June 29 at 5.30pm When a mutated creature emerges from the Han River and begins attacking Seoul, it snatches a young girl named Hyun-seo, prompting her family to spring into action. Her dysfunctional relatives band together in a desperate, chaotic mission to rescue her. K-Movie OST Live Concert Abu Dhabi: Sunday at 7.30pm Dubai: June 27 at 7.30 pm Choi Yeowan Group is a crossover ensemble led by jeongga (traditional Korean vocal music) artist Choi Yeowan. The group brings together five musicians from both traditional and contemporary music scenes, offering a fresh reinterpretation of South Korean film music. Their performances blend famous soundtrack melodies with the unique aesthetics of traditional South Korean music. The ensemble will present reimagined soundtracks from South Korean cinema classics such as Parasite, My Sassy Girl, 200 Pounds Beauty and The Host.
Campaign ME
09-06-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Abu Dhabi's CMA, FilmGate partner to boost production sector, upskill local talent
Abu Dhabi's Creative Media Authority (CMA) has partnered with FilmGate, one of the UAE's leading independent, Emirati-owned and operated production houses, to establish a suite of benefits for the wider production industry in Abu Dhabi. FilmGate will produce a minimum of 15 productions in Abu Dhabi over the next five years, which will employ 50 per cent of production talent from within the CMA's ecosystem. The partnership will also provide extensive learning and development benefits for the ecosystem including annual workshops hosted by FilmGate for the industry on specialist production topics, as well as four- to six-month paid internships every year for young Emirati talent – with a view to providing permanent employment opportunities to grow and nurture talent from within the UAE. Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director-General of Creative Media Authority, said, 'Establishing partnerships with local and regional production leaders is a key element of our industry development strategy to make Abu Dhabi a global content hub. Alongside attracting the major Hollywood and Bollywood productions, it is critical that we support and increase the Arab content produced in Abu Dhabi to ensure we are building an ecosystem where Emirati and wider Arab narratives can thrive.' Dobay added, 'The partnerships we are curating are designed to deliver unrivalled opportunities throughout the ecosystem, from employment for our 1000 plus registered freelancers to intern opportunities for our young creatives; these partnerships support on all levels.' Founded by leading Emirati filmmaker Mansoor Al Yahbouni Al Dhaheri, FilmGate will also benefit from the recent update on the rebate offered by Abu Dhabi Film Commission where qualifying productions now can apply for cashback on production and post-production spend starting at 35 per cent up to 50 per cent based on meeting a clear set of criteria. Mansoor Al Yahbouni Al Dhaheri, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of FilmGate, added, 'It is a significant year for Abu Dhabi with the new rebate for production starting January 1 and a partnership of this nature with CMA will allow us to maximise all that Abu Dhabi offers in terms of filming locations, creative infrastructure, talent and financial support to produce more content than ever before.' As a producer, director, writer, and, most notably, philanthropist Al Dhaheri has created content which has been screened at festivals across the world including at Abu Dhabi Film Festival, the Dubai International Film Festival and Gulf Film Festival. Some of his award-winning and nominated projects include Al Biet Metwahid (Unified Home) (2013), ( (2012), Little Sparta (2016) and Swim 62 (2023). Other more recent work includes the documentary Abu Dhabi success story (2024), TV series Dreams Drawn by Dust (2022), House of Life (2022), Scattered Barriers (2021), three seasons of The Platform and feature film The Misfits (2021). As the CEO of FilmGate, Al Dhaheri leads a team of directors, scriptwriters, cameramen, video editors, animators, audio auditors and producers to create engaging and inspiring content from Abu Dhabi. The FilmGate partnership is one of several partnerships CMA is establishing in order to provide further stimulus across the creative industries of Abu Dhabi, of which the production industry is key.
