Dubai Media to Relaunch Film Festival in 2027, More Than Two Decades After Its 2004 Debut.
The Dubai International Film Festival is set to make its return on December 8, 2027, launching a new chapter with a strong focus on showcasing films and filmmakers from across the Middle East.
The festival’s comeback was announced by Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and President of the Dubai Press Club, during the Arab Media Summit.
The revived festival will operate under Dubai Media, marking its return more than two decades after its inaugural edition in 2004. It was originally created to establish Dubai as an international platform for Arab cinema, while connecting filmmakers, industry professionals and diverse cultures from around the world.
During its 14-year run, the festival grew into one of the region’s leading cinema platforms, creating opportunities for hundreds of Arab filmmakers and productions. Al Marri said it also played an important role in strengthening the presence of Dubai and the UAE on the international film scene.
