Dubai International Film Festival

The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) is one of the most esteemed events in the Arab world, with its 12th edition taking place from December 9 to 16, 2015. In a significant development, it was announced in 2018 that the festival would transition to a biennial schedule, with the 15th edition slated for 2019.

Held under the distinguished patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE's Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, DIFF is a non-profit cultural event organized by the Dubai Entertainment & Media Organization.

DIFF’s film program is remarkably diverse, presenting 118 feature films, shorts, and documentaries from around the globe, including 55 world and international premieres. For instance, in 2014, the festival opened with 'The Theory of Everything,' an Oscar-nominated film directed by James Marsh and featuring acclaimed performances by Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones.

To further champion regional film production and commerce, DIFF launched the Dubai Film Market (DFM) in 2007. This initiative underscores the festival's dedication to advancing the film industry in the region.