The independent filmmaking by women and various types of storytelling by directors across the world will be the highlight of a top film fair event to take place in Dubai, UAE, next month.

The inaugural World of Women’s Film Fair Middle East will take place on March 7 and 8 – International Women’s Day, at VOX cinemas to celebrate women in the film and arts, said a statement.

Established by the Women in Film & Television NSW, the Middle East event is curated by Straight Street Media; a UAE-based global media company, established by leading Australian TV news anchor and author, Hermoine Macura and VOX Cinemas.

“Women are changing the face of society which is why I am delighted to launch the second edition of our Women’s Film Fair in the Middle East on International Women’s Day – I hope it creates further communication and dialogue, while also offering a unique platform for the community to get together and discuss hot topics that effect our society,” said Macura.

As the first-ever international women’s film fair in the Arab world, WOW Middle East aims to share information and highlight the growing number of films made about women and by women.

This years themes include health, gender issues and cultural diversity.

“We have films from Australia, Syria and the UAE.  This year will focus on health awareness including a special talk on breast cancer with leading Emirati breast surgeon, Dr Houriya Kazim,” said Macura.

Rami Alloush, managing partners of VOX Cinema, said: “This fair is free to the public and is just a taste of what we will be developing not only in Dubai but also in Egypt and Lebanon to help promote leading women achievers in film as well as in society.

The event will feature an array of drama, fiction, non-fiction, features and shorts as well as special awards ceremony that will recognise five leading women nominated for their excellence in various fields.

A majority of the films that will be screened will be debuting in the Arab world including some by Arab directors. - TradeArabia News Service