Dubai Culture Announces Fourth Edition of ‘Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert’ Festival

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has unveiled plans for the fourth edition of Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert, set to take place from January 4 to 12, 2025, at the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.

Themed ‘Where Stories Come to Life’, the festival aims to spotlight emerging filmmakers, providing a platform to showcase diverse narratives while reinforcing Dubai’s status as a cultural and creative hub.

This year’s festival embraces sustainability in the film industry, offering a robust programme that includes film screenings, live performances, workshops, panel discussions, public art, and immersive experiences. The event will also feature a family zone, a marketplace with homegrown F&B concepts, and a digital art exhibition.

Drawing inspiration from the resilient Al Ghaf tree, the festival layout features a central ‘trunk’ leading to various ‘branches’ of creative expression. The design highlights emerging talent through murals, digital art, and traditional motifs, creating a dynamic experience for all attendees.

A key highlight of the festival is the Al Marmoom Short-Film Competition, which celebrates Emirati, GCC, Arab, and international filmmakers across four categories: documentaries, animation, live-action, and AI-driven films. Visitors can also enjoy musical performances, heritage displays, and artwork inspired by the UAE’s cinematic history.

Additionally, Dubai Culture will dedicate a corner to showcasing Emirati heritage, featuring traditional handicrafts and cultural elements. This reflects the Authority’s commitment to preserving local traditions and integrating them into Dubai’s flourishing arts scene.

Through Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert, Dubai Culture continues to nurture creativity and foster innovation, cementing the emirate’s position as a global cultural epicentre.

News Source: Dubai Media Office