14 Screen multiplex to open in Erbil

posted by ginohaddad on February 25, 2011 at 7:50 am

ERBIL, IRAQ — Cozy up to the Idea of Stadium-like Viewing with Empire Cinemas. A unique event is about to unfold in Iraq, where for the first time ever a cinema multiplex will open in the recently constructed “Family Mall”, the region’s newest shopping and leisure destination. “This is a one of a kind project,” says Gino Haddad, C.F.O / Business Development Director for Empire Cinemas. The leading cinema circuit and movies distributor in Lebanon and the Gulf will spearhead the group into Iraq, hosting 14 state of the art screens, equipped with 3D digital projectors and DTS digital surround sound systems. Taking a cultural page out of a glorious history of the country, Empire Cinemas designed very spacious theaters with stadium-like architecture, which can boast more than 2500 seats, including an exquisite section for the VIP. The large multiplex lobby will be adorned with comfortable lounge couches, as well as a sizable concession area catering to the whim of all movie fans; children and adults; offering a wide array of refreshment and snack categories from flavored popcorn and sizzling cheese nachos to imported American chocolate delights.

Hollywood blockbuster movies are scheduled to be released concurrently with U.S and European launch dates, while Arabic and commercial Indian movies' enthusiasts can regularly rejoice in top selections on offer.

Empire Cinemas, in collaboration with Jones Lang LaSalle (leasing agents), was able to conclude a long-term leasing agreement with Darin, an Iraqi Construction Company and owner of Family Mall. Construction is underway and the multiplex is scheduled to be open for business towards the end of 2011 or early in 2012.

The Empire Group is proud to expand into Iraq with a pioneering project in the heart of Kurdistan and thrilled to serve a crucial role as the entertainment hub to Erbil’s most exciting new destination. Empire Cinemas has also entered into negotiations over two similar projects in Suleimania and Dohuk (Kurdistan Region) with the ultimate goal being to spread its exclusive movie-going experience throughout the Iraqi territory.

ABOUT EMPIRE
Empire Cinemas, part of the Empire Group, is 92 years in the making, enjoying unparalleled know-how in the movie business. The Group has the depth, breadth and insight to gratify the tastes of a legion of fans looking for a unique movie-going experience. Positioned in strategic locations in Lebanon, Empire Cinemas account for more than 55% of box office admissions thanks to exclusive distributorships of Sony Pictures and 20th Century Fox; two major American studios; all managed by Empire International via satellite offices in Dubai, Bahrain, Syria, Jordan, Cairo and now Erbil. Measuring success one movie fan at a time, the group takes a holistic approach to its brand profile and image positioning to ensure the cinema experience continuously elevates to a new dimension beyond physical borders. With an entrepreneurial, imaginative and modern approach, Empire Group has set the standards when it comes to timely blockbuster releases at preferred locations while keeping an eye to increase its fan footprint with more entertainment destinations in Lebanon and the region.