Distributed in the UAE by Majid Al Futtaim – Vox Independent Distribution, 'HOBA' will soon expand to cinemas in Saudi Arabia.
The Emirati film HOBA, the first-ever Arabic-language horror and psychological thriller produced through the collaboration between Image Nation Abu Dhabi and Spooky Pictures, has officially opened in cinemas across the UAE following its star-studded premiere in Abu Dhabi this week. Blending emotional depth with gripping suspense, the film pushes the boundaries of Emirati storytelling and signals a bold new direction for Arabic-language cinema.
Directed by Emirati filmmaker Majid Al Ansari, HOBA had its world premiere at the 2025 Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas, where it won Best Picture in the Horror Feature category. The international recognition represents a landmark achievement for Al Ansari and a major step forward for Emirati filmmaking on the global stage.
Set within an Emirati household, HOBA tells the haunting story of Amani (played by Emirati actress Bdoor Mohammed), whose life is upended when her husband introduces a second wife, Zahra (portrayed by Saudi artist and filmmaker Sarah Taibah). What begins as a domestic drama soon unravels into a chilling exploration of love, fear and survival, as an unseen force begins to take hold of their home. The cast also features Eman Tarik as Noor, Amani’s daughter and Jasem AlKharraz as Amani’s husband, Khalid.
Produced by Roy Lee, Steven Schneider, Derek Dauchy and Rami Yasin, with Mohamed Hefzy and Yasir Al Yasiri as executive producers, HOBA is the first Arabic-language film to emerge from the Image Nation and Spooky Pictures partnership, a collaboration that brings Hollywood craftsmanship and Emirati storytelling together in a new and compelling way.
Filmed entirely in Abu Dhabi with the support of twofour54, the production highlights the emirate’s filmmaking infrastructure and its growing reputation as a creative hub for international and regional cinema.
Following its UAE theatrical release by Majid Al Futtaim – Vox Independent Distribution, HOBA will also make its way to Saudi Arabia, through Image Nation’s partnership with media company Telfaz11. With its performances, visuals and emotional intensity, HOBA promises to leave audiences across the region on the edge of their seats and marks the beginning of a thrilling new era for Arabic-language genre cinema.
