Visit Abu Dhabi’s latest tourism campaign brings a refreshing twist to the traditional travel ad. Starring Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky, the commercial initially grabs attention with high-action scenes that resemble a Hollywood blockbuster. However, as the story unfolds, the Hemsworths break the fourth wall, revealing their true selves as a couple in search of a well-deserved vacation. This shift transforms the ad into something relatable and heartwarming, making the viewer feel like part of their journey.
The campaign showcases the real adventures that Abu Dhabi offers, with stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and family-friendly experiences. It’s a celebration of the destination’s unique blend of culture and thrill, giving viewers a glimpse of the unforgettable experiences they could have in the city. The message is clear: while the ad may start as a dream, it can easily become a reality with a trip to Abu Dhabi.
Directed by Justin McMillan, the ad is fast-paced and filled with humor, capturing the essence of the Hemsworths’ fun personalities. The visuals, enhanced by Hollywood-style VFX from Heckler, include an impressive CGI particle monster that adds to the excitement. Heckler also worked on the director’s cut of the ad and created an original music track, further elevating the cinematic feel.
Produced by Dejavu, a local production company, the campaign brings a touch of local authenticity, ensuring the ad resonates with both the audience and the destination. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family fun, positioning Abu Dhabi as an ideal travel destination for those seeking both excitement and cultural discovery.
Credits
Client: Visit Abu Dhabi
Director: Justin McMillan
Cinematographer: Matt Toll
Colourist: Billy Wychgel
Stunt Co-ordinator: Damien Walters
Production Company: Dejavu
Executive Producer: Manasvi Gosalia
Head of Production: Kavya Iyer
Producer: Maarouf Bikdache
Production Manager: Karim Hamade, Haider el Saaby, Danielle Barakat & Lia Gorbacheva
Production Coordinator: Azima Moon & Shanna Kay Gonzales
Production Support: Bethany Grace Kerrigan & Azalea Aznidi
Production Assistant: Gabrielle Dundee
Celebrity Coordinator: Mohamad Taha
Celebrity Chaperone: Daisy Thomas & Abdul Wadood Hamid
1st AD: George Cassab
Photographer: Rohan Shrestha
Sound Engineer: Jad Asmar
Key Gaffer: Sharfuddin Mohamed
Key Grip: Haratj Hakoubyian
Stunt Coordinator: Damien Walters
Art Director: Andronico Jr Bonita Del Rosario
Location Manager: Nawaf Noman
Head of Post Production: Rafic Sawaya
Post Producer: Nadim El Khoury
Post Production: Heckler
Executive Producer: Will Alexander
Creative Director: Cody Amos
Producer: Jillian Tan
FX Artists: Sen Ree Ooi, Cody Amos
Compositors: Davor Zec, Johnson Lim
Flame Artist: Abi Santos
I/O Edit Assist: Zackery Wang
Sound: Heckler Sound
Executive Producer: Bonnie Law
Composer: Johnny Green
Strings Arranged & Performed: Emma Greenhill
Brass Arranged & Performed: Scott Langley
Sound Designers: Nick Keate & Dave Robertson
