Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ broke box-office records in the UAE with over 66,321 admissions in three days, shattering the record set by Matrix Reloaded with 59,000.
Cinemas in the UAE usually have just 45,000 admissions on weekends.
The movie's success here follows its record-breaking debut in most Middle East capitals, according to the film's distributor.
Oman has also approved the movie for screening on April 14, while Bahraini censors are expected to approve it soon.
Samer Debsi, Regional Manager of Prime Pictures in GCC, said: "In all cinemas, they had admitted people like they never had before. It's not a holiday but Passion has broken all records, including blockbusters shown during holidays.
"About 100,000 admissions are expected this weekend for all films in the UAE, of which Passion is expected to account for more than 70 per cent."
Debsi said the numbers are audited and based on reports from cinemas. At the Dubai City Centre, the queue for the ticket booth for Passion went all the way to Costa Café (about 25 metres, at one point on Friday evening. "A lot of people who have been away from cinemas took to the theatre once more to see this movie. It will not be an easy feat to match."
Some elderly people visibly disturbed by scenes from the movie have reportedly walked out of theatres halfway through the screening.
The film about Jesus' last 12 hours is given an 18+ rating by UAE and Qatar, 15+ in Lebanon and Europe, and 17+ in the U.S. because of its gory scenes.
Crowd puller
The movie has also broken box office records in Jordan, Syria and Egypt.
Vic, a Filipino engineer who watched the film with friends on Friday night in Ajman's CineStar, said: "I watched the last show with some friends. But still the cinema was nearly packed. The movie ended around midnight. I couldn't control my tears on one of those agonising scenes.
"Everyone seemed so eager to watch but some people were in a bit of shock after watching it."
The movie is expected to continue its record gross through the coming week-end with Good Friday and Easter holidays.
