The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) successfully concluded the fourth edition of the ‘Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert’ festival with a vibrant closing ceremony at the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.
The event highlighted the achievements of emerging filmmakers, photographers, and artists, cementing Dubai’s status as a global cultural hub.
The Al Marmoom Short Film Competition winners were celebrated, with Marwan Chiguer’s Investigation claiming first place, followed by Saif Abdulla’s Refractions and Ahmed Saber’s Stranger in My House. In the photography competition, Abdullah Al Shehi won first prize, showcasing the desert’s beauty alongside works by Latifa Al Roumani, Abdulrahim Al Hammadi, and Fares Al Marashly.
Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, and other dignitaries honoured festival contributors, including Emirati filmmaker Hussein Al Ansari and industry leaders from the judging panel.
Festival manager Maitha Ali Al Blooshi praised the event’s success in fostering creativity and supporting emerging talents, noting its impact on Dubai’s cinematic and cultural landscape. She stated,
“The festival offered participants a unique space to explore advanced filmmaking techniques and discover opportunities within the creative industries.”
The festival screened over 80 films, including Journey to the Stars by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, documenting UAE space milestones, and two works by Hussein Al Ansari. Under the theme Where Stories Come To Life, the festival hosted 30+ workshops, panels, digital art exhibitions, heritage performances, and innovative experiences like AI-powered filmmaking and stargazing.
Held in collaboration with key partners, including Emirates Airlines, Dubai Municipality, and Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, the festival showcased Dubai’s dedication to fostering cultural and artistic excellence.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
