Dubai, a city that serves as a custodian of art, culture, heritage, and literature, fosters a dynamic cultural and creative ecosystem. This vibrant environment helps elevate Dubai’s global standing as a cultural hub, a nurturing ground for creativity, and a thriving talent destination.

The Dubai International Film Festival provides indie filmmakers with an incredible opportunity to showcase their work to a live audience, win prestigious awards, and gain international recognition. As the fastest-growing film festival in the Middle East, DIFF is dedicated to celebrating emerging talent through a unique 100% audience-choice awards format, set against the backdrop of some of Dubai’s most iconic screening locations. Furthermore, DIFF offers filmmakers the chance to extend their reach to global platforms through its vast film distribution network. With the motto “Film For All,” DFF aims to make the dreams of filmmakers come true.

DIFF is a quarterly live screening festival, with over 50 films selected from various categories each month. One film per category is honored with an award, and the winning films are showcased at prestigious venues across Dubai. These films are also rated on IMDb (if applicable), giving them valuable recognition.


Our Mission
To bridge cultures and communities through the power of cinema, while empowering filmmakers by providing a dynamic platform to share their stories and connect with global audiences.

Our Vision
To establish the Dubai International Film Carnival as one of the world’s premier film festivals, known for its celebration of diverse voices, groundbreaking storytelling, and fostering creative collaborations across the globe.

Winners of the monthly screenings automatically qualify for the annual live screening gala, held in the glamorous City of Gold. This grand event is a celebration of cinema, featuring red carpet premieres, press conferences, and gala parties, all attended by international movie stars and media. DIFF provides participants with ample opportunities to network, share ideas, and engage in discussions about cultural diversity and the art of filmmaking. Following the screenings, filmmakers have the chance to interact with the audience during Q&A sessions, promoting healthy dialogue and deeper appreciation for their work.

Please read these Rules & Terms carefully before you submit your film. By submitting your film into the selection process of DIFF, you expressly acknowledge and agree that you shall be bound by the terms of these Rules & Terms DIFF is open to any film regardless of content, subject, or origin. Submitting your film to the DIFF is not a guarantee of selection. All the winning films will receive prestigious ‘ANNUAL AWARD’ Trophy, Certificate of Recognition. Please note that we do not offer application fee waivers. We treat every filmmaker equally.

1. Films made in languages other than English must have English subtitles otherwise they will be summarily rejected.
2. Once a film is submitted to DIFF, the same film can’t be re-submitted again.

3. A director / producer may submit more than one film. DICC is hereby granted the rights to utilize an excerpt from any film submitted for promotional purposes of the project. The individual or corporation submitting the film hereby warrants that it is authorized to commit the film for screening, and understands and accepts these requirements, rules and regulations.

4. The DIFF reserves the right to refuse entries.

5. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless DIFF, from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney’s fees, and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits and publicity.

6. The organizer will not refund any fees once the filmmaker submits his / her film. Films submitted without the correct fees or proper submission copy may be deemed ineligible at the discretion of the programming director or executive director. DICC does not cover any of the expenses incurred by the filmmaker.

7. After a film has been selected, the filmmaker will be notified, and eventually the film will be listed on the DIFF website. The ‘Selected’ status means that you can use the DIFF Laurel on your poster & banners.

8. All submitted films will be privately screened for DIFF judging panel, and will not be screened initially to the public.

9. “Best of the Best” films will receive prestigious ANNUAL AWARD, Trophy and Certificate.

10. Filmmakers’ submission fee will not be reimbursed if they decide to withdraw their submission. All entry fees are non-refundable.

11. We require an official trailer or poster, synopsis and a link of your film.

12. DIFF may without advance notice amend these Rules & Terms from time to time. Each and every such amendment shall be become effective immediately. It is your responsibility to periodically check for updates of these Rules & Terms.