The Dubai Films and Games Commission (DFGC), part of the Dubai Media Council, has launched a national short film competition showcasing the strength, solidarity and resilience of the UAE’s people amid challenging regional circumstances.

Five competition categories

The competition will recognise outstanding entries in five categories:

• Grand Jury Prize

• Best Narrative Film

• Best Documentary Film

• Best Animated Film

• Best AI-Generated Film

A total of 10 prizes will be awarded.

Entries must be submitted by October 25. Student winners will receive prizes worth AED 10,000, while winners in the professional category can receive up to AED 50,000.

All submissions will undergo a three-stage assessment process. Eligibility and technical requirements will first be reviewed, followed by an online preselection process. An independent jury will then evaluate the shortlisted entries and select the winners.

The competition offers young filmmakers, cinema enthusiasts and emerging talent an opportunity to showcase their work to audiences from diverse cultures and nationalities.

A platform for telling national stories

The initiative, titled “Stories of Our Determination”, was launched under the directives of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.

It aims to portray profound human experiences through film while encouraging media students to explore cinema’s potential and gain practical experience in creative production.

Developed by the Dubai Films and Games Commission, the programme invites Emirati filmmakers and UAE residents of all nationalities—including students, emerging talent, first-time filmmakers and professionals—to tell stories of national unity, resilience and achievement.

Accepted formats include narrative films, documentaries, animation, experimental films, AI-generated or AI-assisted productions, hybrid works and mobile filmmaking.

55 films to be selected for Union Day celebrations

The Dubai Media Council and the Dubai Films and Games Commission have also designed the initiative as part of celebrations marking the UAE’s 55th Union Day.

From the submitted entries, 55 finalists will be selected for an official screening, focusing on four national themes:

• “Those Who Protected Us” honours the UAE Armed Forces, emergency responders, frontline workers and national institutions.

• “One Nation, Many Communities” highlights the unity of Emiratis and residents of different nationalities during challenging times.

• “Life Continued” reflects the people’s collective determination to overcome crises.

• “Stronger Towards the Future” showcases ambition and resolve to build the nation’s future.

The competition will conclude with a special screening of the works selected by the independent jury, followed by an official awards ceremony.