Dubai International Film Festival

The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) () is an international film festival based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Launched in 2004, it aims to foster the growth of filmmaking in the Arab world.

Overview

The Dubai International Film Festival is held under the honorary Chairmanship of Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. It is a not-for-profit cultural event, presented and organised by the Dubai Technology, Electronic Commerce and Media Free Zone Authority.The Festival presents cinematic excellence from around the world and offers a high-profile platform for aspiring home-grown talent. The Muhr Award for Excellence in Arab Cinema was launched in 2006, with the aim of recognizing Arab filmmakers both regionally and internationally. In 2008, the Muhr Awards for Excellence were expanded to include two separate competitions, the Arab Muhr Award, and the AsiaAfrica Muhr Award. It also introduced a new program segment dedicated exclusively to Animation.

Another initiative introduced in 2006 was the Industry Office, established with a view to assist registered delegates. The Dubai Film Connection was established in 2007 to stimulate the growth of the film industry in the Arab world.

Other initiatives launched in 2007 included Rhythm and Reels, The Magic of Cinema Photo exhibition and the inaugural amfAR Cinema Against Aids Dubai. In December 2010 the Rhythm and Reels open air cinema event was held on Jumeirah Beach using an inflatable......
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