Do You Miss the Dubai International Film Festival as Much as I Do? It’s been years since the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) and its associated film market closed its doors, yet I can’t help but feel its absence more with each passing year. It wasn’t just a festival, it was a heartbeat for filmmakers, a hub where stories found their champions, and where creativity collided with opportunity. For those of us in the industry, DIFF was more than a red carpet and glamorous premieres. It was a place where filmmakers from across the world, especially the Middle East, could showcase their work to a global audience. The Dubai Film Market was a catalyst for collaboration, helping filmmakers connect with distributors, buyers, and investors. It was an ecosystem that supported not just films but the people behind them. I often wonder about the countless untold stories, the unmade films, and the missed connections that might have flourished had DIFF still been around. Don’t get me wrong; the industry has found other platforms and ways to thrive, but the void left by DIFF is hard to ignore. For many of us, it was the first place where our dreams felt seen and supported. The film industry in the UAE, and the wider region, is still growing. But growth needs a foundation, and DIFF was one of those cornerstones. It gave us a chance to celebrate our stories, push our boundaries, and invite the world to see who we are. So here’s my question to all of you: Do you think we need a festival like DIFF back? Here are some photos from the incredible 2013 opening night, a night filled with energy, dreams, and unforgettable memories. Nayla
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Nayla, a 100% we need DIFF back! I never understood why such a thriving festival closed its doors and I was confused and heartbroken when it was announced. I really hope that there will be enough sponsor and government support to bring DIFF back. How else will I ever get the opportunity to watch so many brilliant movies all in a few days? My personal record at DIFF is 16 movies over 7 days!
I never got to experience DIFF, but its impact is undeniable. A platform that celebrated regional stories and connected them globally is so rare and needed. Even for those who weren’t there, its absence is deeply felt. Maybe it’s time to hope for its return?
I was part of the team that launched DIFF. It could have been so much more.
1000% we need such events to showcase the talent and hardwork of our amazing film producers, director and artists 👍🏼
As per our last conversation we agreed that we do need the Festival back, but as I told you the Dubai Film Commission has a different opinion. We should ask for a meeting and discuss this issue, putting on the table our logical reasons for our request bringing the Festival back, and listening to their opinion as well, so we can reach a middle ground, or even more.
100% they should bring back DIFF - it was amazing, vibrant and such good fun. That void is still felt….maybe you could initiate its return?! What would be needed to bring it back to life?
I do. Sooooo much. It was one of the best things Dubai had 😢
This and the Dubai Desert Rock Festival (DDRF). Never made sense why both ceased.
Senior Strategic Advisor -- Corporate, Financial & Govt Relations, Geopolitics and Public Affairs • Media Skills & Leadership Communications Coach • Culturist • Speaker & Commentator •
11hCanceling DIFF was a tremendous mistake, and many of the challenges leading to it could have been resolved. For starters, focusing on the industry’s real players — writers, actors, directors, producers, crew — and less on the random “influencers” who had nothing to do with actual filmmaking, would be a positive step.