The Emirates Film Festival (EFF), the UAE’s first independent film festival, is officially opening its call for entries for its 12th edition on October 1, inviting filmmakers from across the region and around the world to submit their short films through its newly launched website: www.emiratesfilmfest.com.
With a renewed focus on homegrown talent and an eye toward boosting its international footprint, this year’s edition aims to highlight the rich, evolving voices of the UAE’s creative industry while engaging the broader global film community.
“The Emirates Film Festival is not just a platform, it’s a movement to empower storytelling from the region and beyond,” said Amal Bint Mubarak, COO of EFF. “This year’s campaign reflects our commitment to inclusivity, originality, and positioning the UAE as a global hub for the cinematic arts.”
EFF has undergone a major rebranding effort, with a modernized identity, website, and operational structure supported by a dedicated team of film professionals. For the first time, the festival is operating under a formal license—an important step toward strengthening its institutional presence.
Submissions are expected to exceed 1,000 entries for the 2026 season, with a notable increase anticipated from Emirati and regional filmmakers. Finalists will be announced in April 2026 after a rigorous selection process led by a panel of respected industry professionals. Complete details on categories, eligibility, and deadlines are available on the festival’s website.
“We’re placing a special emphasis on stories rooted in the UAE and the Arab world, but the door is also open to voices from Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, and beyond,” said Ronald Awa, Founder of EFF. “The festival was born from a grassroots movement, and now it’s ready to take its place on the global stage.”
Founded in 2013 as a creative outlet for Emirates Group employees, the festival initially provided a space for aspiring storytellers, including flight crew members with a passion for cinema, to showcase their talent. Today, EFF stands as a bold, independent platform that continues to grow while staying true to its community roots.
Ronald Awa added, “We are now building meaningful collaborations with big brands, media, influencers, and cultural partners to extend the reach of our stories beyond the screen. Our vision is to create a festival that belongs to the region and resonates globally.”
EFF’s 2026 campaign will roll out a vibrant mix of activations, media coverage, and curated screenings to celebrate emerging and established filmmakers. The messaging will amplify narratives from the UAE and the broader Middle East while welcoming diverse perspectives from across the globe.
