The Dubai International Film Festival was launched in 2004, with the vision of'building cultural understanding through creative achievement in film'. The festival showcases excellence in Arab, Asian and African cinema while encouraging the growth of the regional film industry and developing talent.
Since inception the festival has seen tremendous growth. The 4th edition featured 142 films from 50 countries which included 16 world premieres. Attendance for the 220 screenings and 15 panel discussions held at 14 venues across Dubai was more than 45 000.
Industry registration topped 1500 and 1000 accredited press representing key media organizations such as CNN, Entertainment Tonight, Al Jazeera, The Independent, NDTV, Variety, Screen International and The Hollywood Reporter (who circulated a daily edition during the festival) covered the event. In 2007 the festival received an estimated ad value of $75 million in publicity.
The Muhr Awards for excellence is one of the film festival competitions that has a special showcase for the best in Arab cinema. Given its past success, a new section of the Muhr Awards has been created to include the emerging markets of Asia and Africa. The competition is open for feature, documentary and short films. A total of 28 prizes will be handed out at the prestigious awards ceremony held on the last day of the festival.
The Festival's Industry Office organizes panel discussions, consultations, educational workshops and provides several networking opportunities to accredited delegates. It also hosts, the'Dubai Film Connection', a co-production market where 15 projects are carefully selected and shared with several funds and other relevant organizations. The DFC also awards grants to projects selected by a prominent jury and has partnerships with international organizations to help develop the projects further.
DIFF has introduced several initiatives over the years such as:'Rhythm and Reels', a programme that is dedicated to film and music,'Cinema Against Aids', a charity held in conjunction with amfAR,'TheoneminutesJr.', film workshops for children, etc.