The Middle East's largest cinema chain takes over management of the centrally located Beirut theatre

Beirut, July 2nd 2007. Gulf Film LLC, the leading distributor and exhibitor of films in the Middle East through its chain of Grand Cinemas in the UAE and Gulf region, officially announced its expansion into Lebanon today, beginning with the seven-screen theatre in Achrafieh's landmark ABC Mall. The company will assume management effective July 1st 2007, at which time the multiplex will be renamed 'Grand Cinemas ABC'.

"We are pleased to be bringing the ultimate cinema experience to Lebanese film fans, as Gulf Film will be upgrading the theatre and its services to Grand Cinemas standards, to be implemented throughout the summer", explains Jean Ramia, Operations Director at Gulf Film.

"Lebanese moviegoers will also benefit from an expanded concession stand and the personalised care and service that will make Grand Cinemas ABC a welcoming and exciting entertainment destination", continues Ramia.  

"We are delighted to be working with Gulf Films, a partnership we are sure will be quite fruitful. Thanks to their regional expertise in the film sector, Grand Cinemas ABC will surely transform the movie going experience for Lebanese", comments the ABC Mall management.

Film fans will also have at their convenience the dedicated content of www.grandcinemas.com, in addition to a Lebanon edition of the popular Grand Cinemas movie guide. Future projects include bringing, among other, Grand Cinemas' online booking facility - E/Ticket - to the Lebanese public. "As Lebanese owners we are excited to bring the best to Lebanese moviegoers", concludes Ramia.

Part of the Gulf Film Group, the Grand Cinemas name today stands over 16 multiplexes, with a spectacular tally of 130 screens. After the completion of projects in 2007, the Grand Cinemas circuit will embrace 160 screens, firmly cementing its position as the single largest cinema chain in the Middle East.

-Ends-

About Gulf Film LLC
Established in 1989, Gulf Film LLC is the leading distributor and exhibitor of films in the Middle East. Headquartered in Dubai, the company is credited with reviving the fortunes of the industry through its chain of Grand Cinemas in the UAE and Gulf region.

Gulf Film is responsible for the lion's share of English and Arabic titles across the region. Movie sources range from American principals such as Universal, Paramount and DreamWorks - in a sub-distribution capacity for the Gulf - to independent filmmakers such as Spyglass, Mandate, Morgan Creek, Arclight, Summit, Hyde Park, Lionsgate, Voltage, Essential and QED among others.

Gulf Film Group distributes and exhibits over 200 titles per annum. With a workforce of over 700 people in the distribution and exhibition sectors, the Gulf Film Group is present throughout the Middle East, in the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Jordan and Bahrain.

© Press Release 2007