The 12th edition of Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) opens tomorrow (December 9) offering an eclectic showcase of the world’s greatest cinema from internationally acclaimed filmmakers and rising stars alike.

The exponential growth of DIFF since its inception in 2004 has led to the Festival becoming recognised as one of the most prestigious events on the global film calendar.

This years’ festival features a staggering 134 films from 60 countries – including 55 world and international premieres, 46 Mena premieres, 11 Middle-East premieres and 17 GCC premieres.

The 12th edition is set to provide an unmatched cinematic experience across Dubai with the return of free public screenings to THE BEACH, opposite JBR, that will include all the action of the silver screen and red carpet with eight nights of movie magic under the stars.

As well as screening a wide range of films from across DIFF’s exceptional line-up, the community will also play witness to cinema brought to life with live performances and interactive sessions from JAWS director Richard Dreyfuss, beloved Palestinian singer Mohammed Assaf – winner of the second season of Arab Idol and musicians from ‘Song of Lahore’.

Continuing its successful collaboration with VOX Cinemas, films from the Festival’s 12th programme will be screened from December 10 onwards until the festival’s close at eight dedicated screens at VOX Cinema, Mall of the Emirates.

Film fans can buy tickets from the DIFF box office, which is open online at diff.ae, and at the box office at VOX Cinema, Mall of the Emirates.

DIFF will present its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of the contributions of regional and international filmmakers to the industry.

DIFF’s chairman Abdulhamid Juma said: “To be celebrating the 12th edition of DIFF is an incredible achievement and a testament to how much the festival has progressed on a global scale since its inception. This year, we are excited to see the city taken over by film once again, and to be able to bring new films and experiences to new audiences.”

“DIFF also strives to nurture and foster growth in the industry and the festival has come to be recognised as a pillar for Arab cinema in the region. It is for this reason that the festival continues to attract the brightest directors and touch the hearts of more and more fans every year. It is also with great pride that we reward the contributions of the industry’s greatest icons with our Lifetime Achievement Award and we hope that budding filmmakers and actors alike can continue to be inspired by those who tread before them,” he added.

The Dubai International Film Festival runs until December 16.  – TradeArabia News Service