18 - 20 April 2025
ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
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Short Film Competition
The Year of Strength!
A look through the lens of local filmmakers and their demonstration of the theme for 2025 - STRENGTH. Do you have what it takes to win MEFCC's first-ever Short Film Competition?
WATCH THIS SPACE!
Submissions for the Short Film Competition have NOW CLOSED. Stay tuned to find out our Shortlisted Films on 27th March 2025
Igniting Imagination, Sharing Inspiration
Brought to you by MEFCC, this vibrant platform will empower young filmmakers and celebrate compelling stories that reflect the rich, diverse, cultural tapestry of the Middle East.
Whether you’re a first-time director, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply a lover of cinema, this competition invites you to participate by submitting your short films under the theme for 2025, “Strength”.
Showcase Your Work At The Main Stage
The shortlisted entries will be screened on the Main Stage during the weekend of MEFCC.
Participants will have the chance to connect with a diverse audience of film enthusiasts and potential collaborators.
Join us and be inspired by a diverse array of short films that will ignite your imagination and passion for film, stories, and pop culture.
Witness the power of storytelling as emerging filmmakers bring their unique visions to life on the big screen.
DATES TO REMEMBER
Judging Period:
28 February to 21 March 2025
Shortlisted Films Announcement:
27 March 2025
Winners Announcement:
18 April 2025
CASH PRIZE
Your short film could earn you one of three cash prizes at MEFCC! With a grand prize of AED 10,000, this is your chance to shine 💸
MEET THE JUDGES
Faisal Hashmi
An award-winning Dubai-based film director known for his acclaimed horror and thriller shorts. With 1.5M+ YouTube views and multiple festival awards, he's now working on his feature film debut.
Razan Takash
Razan Takash is an award-winning Writer, Director, and Producer with 14+ years of experience, including work on Star Wars: The Force Awakens. She’s the Head of Film at SAE University College and the host of Razz Reviews
Waleed K. Hmidan
Waleed is an award-winning filmmaker who directed/produced several short films screened at local and international film festivals. He is a comic bookstore owner and journalist.
Sameer Al Jaberi
As Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, Sameer Al Jaberi is responsible for all aspects of the entity, overseeing the rebate and locations departments as well as the industry directory and government services, which support the production ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.
Salwa Al Hadhrami
Salwa Al Hadhrami is a media professional and accomplished producer with over 12 years of industry experience. As the Creative Content Lead at the Creative Media Authority, she plays a pivotal role in overseeing and managing high-profile productions across international and regional markets.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
Submissions for the Short Film Competition have NOW CLOSED. Stay tuned to find out our Shortlisted Films on 27th March 2025
Film Duration: Minimum 6 minutes, maximum 8 minutes (including credits)
Theme: Films should align with the given theme – “Strength”
Language: All submissions for the short film competition must be presented in English or Arabic language. Films must include English subtitles.
Exclude Commercial Content: The short film should not feature or promote any specific brands, products, or companies.
Exclusive to UAE-based Filmmakers: This competition will only accept short film entries from UAE Residents.
Story and Creativity: Evaluates how the story unfolds, focusing on clarity, engagement, and a well-executed plot, while also rewarding originality and innovative storytelling that brings fresh and imaginative ideas to life.
Production Value: The overall quality of the film’s technical elements, including visuals, sound, lighting, and design, contributing to a polished and professional presentation.
Overall Impact: Evaluates how effectively the film resonates with audiences, evokes emotions, or leaves a lasting impression. This includes how well the film integrates the theme, using it to create a meaningful and powerful connection with viewers.
ADHERENCE TO LOCAL RULES & REGULATIONS
- Creative Freedom: Creative interpretations of the theme are encouraged, as long as they respect local UAE laws, regulations, and MEFCC’s community guidelines.
- Restricted Locations: Avoid filming government buildings, royal palaces, or locations with political or military significance, as photographing these landmarks is restricted for security reasons. Only proceed if you have a special permit granting explicit permission.
- Ownership of Content: Participants must hold the rights to all content used in their films, including appropriate licenses, music footage and images.
TIPS TO RECORD A SHORT FILM
FAQs
Are you open to any genre?
Yes, we are open to all genres, so feel free to submit anything from drama and comedy to sci-fi or animation.
Who is eligible to participate in the competition?
The competition is open to aspiring filmmakers of all levels, including students and independent creators based in UAE
When is the submission deadline?
The submission deadline is 21 February 2025, be sure to submit your entry before this date to be considered.
Can I enter more than one film?
No, we will be accepting only one entry per account.
What is the maximum run time for the submitted short films?
The maximum runtime must be between 6 to 8 minutes including credits
Is there a theme for the competition?
Yes, the theme is “Strength”. The film should reflect this theme in some way.
Who can I contact for more information?
For any inquiries, please reach out to film@mefcc.com
How do I submit my film?
Films can be submitted via FilmFreeway
Is there any age requirement?
No, there is no age limit for participating in the short film competition.