Al Marmoom: Film In The Desert Festival Concludes Fourth Edition With Awards For Filmmakers

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority recently wrapped up the fourth edition of the ‘Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert’ festival. The event took place at the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, celebrating winners of the Al Marmoom Short Film Competition. Marwan Chiguer's 'Investigation' won first place, followed by Saif Abdulla's 'Refractions' and Ahmed Saber's 'Stranger in My House'.

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, attended the closing ceremony. The event also honoured winners of a photography competition. Abdullah Al Shehi took first place, while Latifa Al Roumani, Abdulrahim Al Hammadi, and Fares Al Marashly secured second to fourth places. Their photographs highlighted the natural beauty of the Al Marmoom Desert.

The festival showcased over 80 films from Emirati, Gulf, Arab, and international filmmakers. Notable screenings included ‘Journey to the Stars’ by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, highlighting UAE's space achievements like Sultan Al Neyadi's and Hazzaa Al Mansoori's missions. Emirati director Hussein Al Ansari also presented two short films during the festival.

Under the theme ‘Where Stories Come To Life,’ more than 30 workshops and discussions were held. These sessions connected emerging talents with industry experts. The programme featured digital art exhibitions, music performances, heritage showcases, AI-powered filmmaking experiences, and stargazing through a planetarium.

Festival’s Role in Cultural Development

Maitha Ali Al Blooshi, Manager of Events Section at Dubai Culture and Project Manager of the festival, emphasised its role in positioning Dubai as a global cultural hub. She noted that it nurtures creativity and supports emerging talents. "The festival offered participants a unique space to explore advanced filmmaking techniques," she said.

The event was organised with numerous partners including Dubai Mounted Police, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Ambulance, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, Roads and Transport Authority, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre among others.

The festival concluded successfully with recognition for Emirati filmmaker Hussein Al Ansari along with sponsors and judges like Hani Alshaibani and Haidar Mohamad. This celebration underscored its commitment to enhancing Dubai’s cinematic landscape by empowering filmmakers through diverse opportunities within cultural industries.

With inputs from WAM