Abu Dhabi's twofour54, which promotes the media and entertainment industry in the emirate, has landed a deal to film Director Rohit Dhawan's upcoming "Dishoom" in the city.
The organization, which is government-back and operates a tax-free zone dedicated to the industry, announced the deal with Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment in a press release Wednesday.
“Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment is one of the most reputable production companies in Bollywood and we are extremely proud to welcome their latest feature to Abu Dhabi," Noura Al Kaabi, chief executive officer at twofour54, said. "Their commitment to shoot in the Emirate is a testament to their belief in the UAE as well as the quality of work that we offer."
"Dishoom" is being produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, who has been behind a number of Bollywood hits, and will star John Abraham, Varun Dhawan and Jacqueline Fernandez.
Twofour54 said the production would employ at least 90 people and would offer internships for Emiratis to gain experience in the industry. This news comes after the group announced in early May that they were canceling their annual Abu Dhabi Film Festival, a move that many film critics - in the region and internationally - bemoaned.
Abu Dhabi has attracted a number of top international productions to the city over the last several years, including the recently released " Furious 7 " and the upcoming " Star Wars: The Force Awakens ."
“Films and TV programmes are among the most important and effective mediums for endorsing tourism destinations.," Kaabi said. "We are glad twofour54 will contribute to Abu Dhabi’s ambitious tourism mandate.”
