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by MEB Journal Staff
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The Gulf Film Festival (GFF) premieres April 9 through 15 as an initiative spearheaded by the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone Authority (TECOM). The annual gathering will differ from the region’s five other film festivals – most notably the Dubai International Film Festival programming. Al Ekhbariya began broadcasting seven years ago, quickly gaining popularity as it reported on local social issues and became a platform for discussing national problems. The Saudi government announced a five percent salary increase for its employees in late January meant to ease the effect of growing inflation. (DIFF) – in that it plans to emphasize feature films from Gulf countries, with only a few from outside the region. Local filmmakers can compete for a first prize of AED 50,000 ($13,615) in the categories of features, shorts, and documentaries. Aspiring filmmakers may enter the Student’s Competition and compete in shorts and documentaries. GFF also plans a separate script competition for Emirati short films. |
