If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing your short film on the big screen, this is your moment. Fujifilm Middle East has officially launched its first-ever Short Film Festival (FFSFF), and it’s calling on filmmakers from 22 countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia to submit their stories.
Yep, this is your cue to shine.
Partnering with Cinema Akil, the region’s only arthouse cinema, and Gulf Photo Plus, Dubai’s hub for visual storytelling, FFSFF is way more than a film competition. It’s a movement, designed to give underrepresented talent the platform, visibility, and support they deserve.
The rules? Simple. Films must be under 15 minutes and fall into one of five categories: Narrative, Documentary, Experimental, Commercial, or Student. Submissions are open now through September 15, and shortlisted entries will be screened in December at Cinema Akil, with an awards ceremony, workshops, mentorship, and more.
And yes, winners walk away with cash prizes, Fujifilm filmmaking gear, and maybe best of all, a chance to be part of a wider creative community pushing boundaries in the region.
It’s also a big cultural moment for Fujifilm itself. After stepping back from traditional film stock in 2013, the brand is officially returning to the world of moviemaking with this initiative, and the upcoming launch of its new digital motion picture system, Eterna.
So whether you’re a student with a story to tell or a filmmaker ready to level up, this is your chance. Head to fujifilm-xmea.com for everything you need to apply.
This isn’t just a festival. It’s a new era for film in the region, and it starts with you.
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