The Muhr Gulf Short category is once again returning to the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) to provide a supporting platform for filmmakers from the region.

Celebrated for reflecting diversity and recognising the expertise of Gulf filmmakers, the Muhr Gulf Short category provides an integral opportunity for directors to shine in the international spotlight and provide an ongoing catalyst for the growing GCC cinema.

Known for bringing the best of regional cinema to the fore, this 2016 lineup of inventive short films are to raise the competitive stakes with each original short bringing a unique expression of culture sure to enrapture audiences at the Festival.

DIFF’s artistic director Masoud Amralla Al Ali said: “This year DIFF has been overwhelmed with thousands of exceptional entrants submitting creative and diverse films into the Muhr Gulf Short competition. This niche category has an Arab soul and fosters the growth of both budding talent and the film production industry here in the Middle East. Celebrating and sharing these cultural nuances and the wealth of Arab cinema is at the core of the Festival and we cannot wait to share these stories with our audiences at the 13th edition.”  

Salah Sermini, DIFF Programmer, added: “As our audiences are growing each year, it is really encouraging that the Muhr Gulf Short category provides a rare opportunity for regional filmmakers and wider audiences to share their love of this medium of film. This year’s lineup of innovative cinema will not only provide an unmatched opportunity for the filmmakers but also entertain and educate audiences through their unique, vibrant storytelling.”

Registration is now open for media, students and industry professionals for the 13th edition of the Dubai International Film Festival which will take place from December 7 to 14. – TradeArabia News Service