Trowers & Hamlins has advised Bahrain Cinema Company (Cinesco) on a joint venture with Majid Al Futtaim to develop the world's largest cinema.

The pioneering development project will operate and expand Bahrain's premier 8,000 square metre cinema at Majid Al Futtaim’s City Centre Bahrain in Manama. As the leading retail and leisure provider across the Middle East and North Africa, Majid Al Futtaim will be working with Cinesco to create an entertainment Megaplex that will include a state-of-the-art 4DX cinema, IMAX screen facilities and an exclusive cinema dining experience "ThEATre by Rhodes", the brainchild of Michelin Star celebrity chef Gary Rhodes.

The firm has advised Cinesco on all aspects of the transaction, including the joint venture arrangements, sale of current business to the joint venture company and regulatory impact on Cineco as a listed company on the Bahrain Bourse, including negotiation of documents with Al Tamimi & Company.

Partner Nick Green, who led on the deal said:

"It is likely that this partnership will see the City Centre Bahrain location become one of the region's most iconic entertainment destinations, with the addition of the new screens and innovative and exclusive cinema experiences, bringing new employment opportunities, retail, commercial leisure and cultural facilities to the site. We are proud to have been involved, and look forward to seeing how the project develops."

The team acting on the joint venture was led by Nick Green and Brian Howard.  Dominic O'Neil and Tom Reynolds assisted with the corporate aspects of the transaction.  Peter Greatrex provided real estate advice.