Even though the famous Abu Dhabi International Film Festival had become a key industry event in the Arabian Peninsula, developing a strong relationship with Hollywood, this month the Emirate’s Media Zone Authority announced it would close. For Arab film-makers and others working in the industry, the reasons for this decision remain opaque. The Media Zone Authority said it wanted to focus on new initiatives to support local film-makers better and to attract international productions into the country.
The Abu Dhabi International Film Festival was created in 2007, following the demise of the Middle East International Film Festival. It was an important platform for funding and the distribution of Arab cinema. Luckily the Sanad Fund will continue to provide financial support for film projects created within the festival, and will now be managed by the Media Zone Authority. The call for projects for development or post-production assistance this year is open. The deadline for submitting dossiers is June 30th. More information and registration conditions by clicking here.
Sources: dailystar.com.lb, screendaily.com, thenational.ae, zawya.com et thenewstribune.com
