Making a DIFFerence

DIFF was conceived in 2004 as an event that would be a cultural bridge between East and West, and between the Arab and non-Arab worlds.

Its two main goals were to use the powerful medium of cinema to promote inter-cultural dialogue and understanding, and to provide a platform for showcasing and encouraging excellence in Arab cinema.
Already, it has succeeded in achieving this and much more.

DIFF puts Dubai in the international limelight through a programme that includes films from every region of the world, thus attracting celebrities, filmmakers, movie lovers and media from around the globe.

Their presence and positive comments about the city have helped to promote tourism and business.

Last year, more than 150 guests from leading film festivals, distributors, sales agents, film institutes and production companies attended the event.

As a result, Dubai Studio City received several proposals from Hollywood, Egypt and other countries to shoot films here, set up regional distribution offices and invest in production facilities.

A platform

DIFF has also had a positive impact on the local and regional film industry.

It has provided a platform not only for well-known Arab filmmakers but also for young, up-and-coming talent to showcase their work to an international audience.

Through panel discussions and interactive sessions, Arab filmmakers have an opportunity to learn from experienced, international film personalities and to discuss the issues that affect them.

The DIFF Award for Exceptional Talent in Film Making, which offers a cash prize and screening of the film at the festival, plays an important role in identifying and encouraging local talent.

Equally beneficial is the DIFF Apprenticeship programme, which gives young UAE nationals and expatriates the opportunity to learn how to run a big film festival and the chance to network. In addition, the recently announced Muhr Awards for Arab filmmakers will provide a further boost to Arab cinema.

The festival enriches the UAE's multi-cultural community by giving its residents the opportunity to see films on a variety of social, cultural and global issues and to discuss these issues with filmmakers and movie lovers from other countries.

Perhaps DIFF's biggest achievement is that it has added a new dimension to the city.

Well-known as a business and tourist destination, Dubai has now also become a city where the world meets to talk, share ideas, discuss important global issues and build bridges.