This festival celebrates cinematic creativity with a unique blend of storytelling.
The fourth edition of Dubai’s Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert Festival is underway, promising a captivating experience. The festival, organised by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, celebrates cinematic creativity and features a selection of short films tackling societal and environmental issues. Running until 12 January, with the theme ‘When Stories Come To Life,’ the festival aims to open new horizons for filmmakers, fostering innovation and providing a platform for showcasing diverse stories.
The festival’s program includes over 80 films from local as well as international filmmakers. These films, ranging from documentaries to animations and live-action productions, form the heart of the Al Marmoom Short-Film Competition, where a distinguished panel of experts will evaluate entries across three categories.
To enhance the sustainability of the film industry, Dubai Culture has curated a rich program featuring more than 30 workshops and ten talks and panel discussions. Renowned speakers, directors, and cinema specialists will engage in conversations addressing various challenges and topics faced by the industry.
The festival is not only a cinematic delight but a celebration of Emirati heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in musical performances, cultural displays, and artistic works inspired by the history of local cinema.
The event features dedicated pavilions for workshops, seminars, and family-friendly activities, including performing arts, musical and heritage shows, and interactive experiences like ‘Create Your Own AI Movie.’ Visitors can also explore the planetarium for a stargazing session or enjoy the reserve’s breathtaking landscapes on a safari bus tour. Adding to the excitement, a photography competition invites participants to showcase their creativity.
On the culinary front, several homegrown food outlets have set up pop-ups where festival-goers can indulge in a delightful array of savouries, desserts, and popular coffee blends, experiencing various cuisines that showcase local and global flavours.
The festival unfolds in the picturesque Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, bringing together filmmakers, industry experts, and the community.
GO: Follow @almarmoom.filmfest on Instagram for more information.
