Abu Dhabi has just received a touch of Bollywood glamour, thanks to Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh. The pair stars in a new tourism campaign for the emirate, which takes a fresh approach to showcasing the city. Far from a typical beach-and-skyscraper advert, this campaign introduces a narrative full of plot twists, vibrant chemistry, and a hint of MI6-style intrigue.
The reel begins with Deepika giving Ranveer a sly smirk: “Followed me to Abu Dhabi? Are you stalking me?” Ranveer’s quick-witted response sets the tone for the rest of the campaign: “So, what are we playing tonight? Are we in a rom-com or a spy thriller?” The playful back-and-forth between the pair positions Abu Dhabi not just as a travel destination but as a backdrop for a cinematic adventure.
Abu Dhabi as a Playground for Romance and Adventure
The campaign unfolds in iconic locations like The Galleria Al Maryah Island, blending luxury with a touch of mystery. Ranveer, ever the charismatic troublemaker, declares, “It’s a date,” before teasingly asking, “What if I’m a double agent on vacation?” Deepika, poised as always, responds with a compliment: “You look ravishing,” before adding a playful jab, “You look like Bond. Who forgot to shave?”
This interaction is the heart of the campaign, with the couple’s off-screen chemistry shining through. It’s not just a typical tourism ad it’s a clever play on the power of Bollywood star appeal. With Indian tourists forming one of the largest demographics visiting Abu Dhabi, the city is capitalising on Bollywood’s influence to attract travellers, while also blending cultural diplomacy with glamour.
The reel is designed to show Abu Dhabi as a destination for the stylish and spontaneous, a place where anything could happen romantic dates, luxury shopping, or even yacht-side flirtations. The appeal lies not just in the city’s landmarks, but in the narrative that the couple creates: the fantasy that a holiday in Abu Dhabi is not just a getaway but an adventure full of surprises.
The Power of Bollywood Star Power
Abu Dhabi’s use of Bollywood icons to drive its tourism efforts is a smart move, tapping into the star power of Ranveer and Deepika to attract a wider audience. The campaign’s playful tone and cinematic style show the emirate as a place where romance and adventure can go hand in hand, with a dash of intrigue and humour.
As the reel concludes with a romantic dinner date, Ranveer quips, “You can’t make me laugh. How am I supposed to stay in character? This role play stuff is too cheesy.” Regardless of the cheese factor, the campaign is striking a chord with viewers. It isn’t just selling Abu Dhabi; it’s selling the dream of a holiday where life feels like a movie.
Deepika seals the deal with the closing line: “So, what’s Abu Dhabi got for us tomorrow?” This final question hints at more to come. If this campaign is any indication, Abu Dhabi is setting the stage for a new Bollywood-inspired tourism era.
With this cinematic twist, Abu Dhabi’s tourism efforts seem set to hit all the right notes, positioning itself as a place of romance, adventure, and endless possibilities. And if this is only the first chapter, fans are already looking forward to the sequel.
If you’re looking for more inspiration for your next getaway, check out Global Food Week 2025 in Abu Dhabi for a focus on sustainability or learn more about Dubai Opera’s role in the cultural evolution.
