- Stories of Our Determination’ Initiative to Showcase Human Experiences Through Film
Dubai, UAE – The Dubai Films and Games Commission (DFGC), an entity operating under the Dubai Media Council, has announced the launch of a national short film competition designed to spotlight the extraordinary strength, solidarity, and resilience demonstrated by people across the UAE amid challenging regional circumstances.
Initiative Launched Under Directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Launched under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the initiative titled ‘Stories of Our Determination’ will highlight profound human experiences through film while providing a unique platform aimed at encouraging media students to explore the medium of film and gain hands-on exposure to creative production techniques.
Open to Emirati and UAE-Based Filmmakers of All Nationalities
Curated by the DFGC, the initiative offers a platform for Emirati and UAE-based filmmakers of all nationalities—including students, emerging talent, first-time filmmakers, and established professionals—to showcase their craft through stories of national unity, resolve, and triumph. Accepted formats include Fiction, Documentary, Animation, Experimental film, AI-generated or AI-assisted film, Hybrid, and mobile-phone filmmaking.
Competition Marks 55th Eid Al Etihad with 55 Selected Films
The DMC and the DFGC have envisioned the initiative as a symbolic celebration marking the 55th Eid Al Etihad, with all competition entries to be narrowed down to an official selection of 55 films centred on four national themes:
- ‘Those Who Protected Us’ – Saluting the UAE Armed Forces, emergency responders, frontline personnel, and national institutions
- ‘One Nation, Many Communities’ – Reflecting how Emiratis and diverse nationalities stood as one through testing times
- ‘Life Continued’ – Highlighting the collective will to overcome crisis
- ‘Stronger Toward the Future’ – Spotlighting unwavering ambition and determination to shape the nation’s future
The competition will culminate in a gala screening of films selected by an independent jury ahead of the official awards ceremony.
Leadership Voices Strong Support for Initiative
Nehal Badri, Secretary General of the Dubai Media Council, said the initiative embodies the UAE leadership’s vision to foster a community defined by its exceptional unity and shared sense of destiny.
“The UAE’s story has always been shaped by the remarkable determination of its people and their strong sense of purpose in shaping the future of the country and the world at large. The initiative ‘Stories of Our Determination’ provides an opportunity to depict the oneness, solidarity and resilience of the UAE through authentic human stories and preserve them for future generations.”
“The event also reflects our commitment to creating opportunities for promising young talent to share the stage with established filmmakers. By welcoming different generations and creative perspectives, we want to encourage new voices, showcase bright young talent and support storytelling that reflects the diversity and strength of our society.”
Hesham Al Olama, CEO of the Media Development Sector at Dubai Media Council, emphasised the Council’s focus on promoting the film sector and emerging talent while keeping pace with the latest advancements shaping the industry.
“Film is a medium that enables us to appreciate momentous experiences and events in a unique way. ‘Stories of Our Determination’ is an effort to empower filmmakers to share their keen insights and perspectives on the UAE through documentary, fiction, animation or newer forms of digital filmmaking.”
“The competition is as much about discovering talent as about creating opportunities. By opening participation to students, first-time filmmakers and professionals, we hope to showcase diverse voices and creative approaches that further strengthen the vibrant community spirit across the UAE.”
Samr Almarzooqi, Film Commissioner at the Dubai Films and Games Commission, said:
“This initiative reflects the Dubai Media Council’s renewed commitment to advancing the local film production ecosystem and reinforcing Dubai’s position as a regional and global hub attracting top talent and outstanding productions. Empowering filmmakers through world-class infrastructure and an enabling environment enhances the competitiveness of local content and wins global audiences for our stories on the strength of their artistic and technical merit.”
“With the wholesome support and encouragement of the Council, we remain committed to providing participants across various competition categories and tracks the technical resources, support and facilitation they need, ensuring that creative ideas take form in inspiring films celebrating national achievements, thus enriching the UAE’s cinematic legacy.”
Five Award Categories with Prizes Totalling AED 60,000
The competition will recognise outstanding entries across five award categories:
- Grand Jury Prize
- Best Fiction Film
- Best Documentary Film
- Best Animated Film
- Best AI Film
A total of 10 awards will be presented. Winning entries from students will attract prizes amounting to AED 10,000, while award winners from among professional participants will be entitled to prizes valued at AED 50,000.
Three-Stage Selection Process
All competition entries will be screened through a three-stage process:
- Eligibility and technical evaluation
- Preliminary online selection
- Independent jury review, ultimately leading to the public selection
- Submission Deadline: October 25
Submissions are open until October 25, which marks the final deadline for entries. The competition presents a golden opportunity for aspiring filmmakers and film enthusiasts to earn wider recognition and reach new audiences spanning diverse cultures and nationalities.
Registration and entry submissions are available via: https://dfgc.ae/en/events/stories-of-our-determination/
BY: The Times Union
