Barbie movie delayed by a month, coming to UAE.
Barbie movie delayed by a month, coming to UAE.
UAE Officials Grant Approval for Screening Barbie Movie

The UAE Media Council has recently announced its approval for the screening of the much-awaited Barbie movie in licensed cinemas across the United Arab Emirates. However, the delay in granting this approval has raised speculation and curiosity among moviegoers.
While UAE officials have not provided an explanation for the delay, it is worth noting that similar delays have occurred in other Arab nations. In these regions, the inclusion of LGBTQ+ content, including transgender characters, can be a sensitive subject due to cultural and religious beliefs. Many Muslim-majority countries, including those in the Arab world, hold the view that homosexuality and transgender identity are against Islamic religious beliefs.
The Barbie movie, starring Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken, features several other actors portraying various “Barbies” and “Kens,” including Hari Nef, a transgender actress from Philadelphia. Nef’s involvement in the film’s cast might have been a contributing factor to the delay in securing approval for its release.
Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., the producer of the Barbie movie, declined to comment on the situation. In the Middle East, the distribution of Warner Bros. movies is handled by Majid Al Futtaim, who could not be reached for comment on this matter.
This is not the first time that Arab countries, including the UAE, have faced controversy over the inclusion of LGBTQ+ content in movies. Last year, the release of “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” faced delays and ultimately a ban in the UAE and other Arab countries. The controversy stemmed from the inclusion of a transgender reference in the film, and the studio’s refusal to censor it to comply with local sensitivities.
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Nevertheless, the UAE Media Council’s recent approval signifies a positive step toward embracing diversity and inclusion in the country’s entertainment landscape. It reflects a growing recognition that modern societies should strive to represent various perspectives and identities, even when it might clash with conservative or traditional values.
By granting approval for the Barbie movie, the UAE shows its commitment to fostering an environment where different voices can be heard and appreciated. This decision might encourage other filmmakers to explore themes and characters that challenge societal norms and stereotypes, further enriching the cinematic experience for audiences in the UAE and beyond.
It is important to recognize that the acceptance and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues vary across different cultures and regions. While countries with more conservative beliefs may still have reservations about certain content, it is crucial to foster dialogue and mutual respect to bridge these differences.
As the Barbie movie premieres in UAE cinemas, it will not only entertain but also serve as a platform for discussions and reflections on the importance of acceptance and inclusivity. It is through such conversations that societies can progress and evolve, creating spaces where everyone feels valued and represented.
In conclusion, the approval of the Barbie movie by the UAE Media Council represents a significant milestone in promoting diversity and challenging societal norms. While it undoubtedly poses challenges within a cultural context, it also opens up opportunities for meaningful conversations and greater acceptance. As the world continues to change, it’s essential to create platforms that celebrate our differences, while fostering understanding and empathy among diverse communities.