5th Abu Dhabi Film Festival opens doors for business

From today, amateur and professional directors will have the opportunity to submit their films for consideration in various categories.

ABU DHABI // One of the most important events in the UAE's culture calendar, the 5th Abu Dhabi Film Festival, has opened its doors for business.

From today, amateur and professional directors from around the globe will have the opportunity to submit their films for consideration in categories such as the Afaq Jadida (New Horizons) Competition and The Emirates Film Competition.

And while the total prize money for the festival - which will once again be directed by Peter Scarlet - continues to stand at over $1million, this year’s ceremony will see the introduction of several new awards.

Changes in the Narrative, Documentary, Short Films, and Afaq Jadida (New Horizons) Competitions have been made with the aim of giving all the filmmakers involved in the festival the same opportunity, the organisers said. The changes will also increase Arab filmmakers chances of taking home an award, with more emphasis being placed on the Arab film industry.

Of the new awards that have been added to the program, filmmakers will now be able to compete in the Best Producer from the Arab World and Special Jury Awards.

The deadline for submissions is July 1.