DUBAI, 7 November 2006 — Organizers of the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) yesterday claimed a resounding response from Arab filmmakers worldwide to its debut Arab film competition.
More than 250 entries have poured in from around the world to compete for jury prizes in the Muhr Awards for Excellence in Arab Cinema. In line with the competition’s focus, the entries provide creative testimonies to Arab history and culture, and social issues impacting the Arab community.
Highlighting the importance of the competition and the festival to the Arab film world, Abdulhamid Juma, chairman of DIFF said: “It’s an important platform for Arab filmmakers to have their voices heard by international industry leaders. The week long event not only serves as a global arena for the celebration of excellence in Arab cinema, it also provides a dynamic momentum for the growth of the regional film industry.
“Our directive at DIFF is to ensure that the world continues to see the festival as a dedication to the creative expression of Arab tradition and culture through initiatives such as the Arab Film Competition.”
Approximately AED 1.2 million ($325,000) in prize money is up for grabs by winning entries in feature, shorts and documentary film categories. The Dubai International Film Festival is scheduled to be held from Dec. 10-17.