24 - 26 April 2026
ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
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MEFCC Short Film Competition
THEME: DREAMS
Submission Deadline: 6th February 2026
Igniting Imagination, Sharing Inspiration
Brought to you by MEFCC, this vibrant platform will empower young filmmakers and celebrate compelling stories that reflect the rich, diverse cultural tapestry of the Middle East.
Whether you’re a first-time director, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply a lover of cinema, this competition invites you to participate by submitting your short films under a specific theme that we will be announcing during the lead-up to our next edition of MEFCC.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
Film Duration: Minimum 6 minutes, maximum 8 minutes (including credits)
Theme: Films should align with the given theme – “Dreams”
Language: English or Arabic language. Films must include English subtitles.
Exclude Commercial Content: The short film should not feature or promote any specific brands, products, or companies.
Exclusive to UAE-based Filmmakers: This entries from UAE Residents and Nationals.
- Storytelling and Narrative
- Technical Skills
- Theme Integration
- Overall Impact
Platform & Process:
Step 1: Create an account at FilmFreeway and click on I want to submit my work.
Step 2: Fill in details about your project under Project Information.
Step 3: Fill in as much further information as possible and save the project
Step 4: Click Save the Project
Step 5: Upload or Link to your film and Click Save
Step 6: Add posters, trailers, and other required information
Step 7: Browse and choose the festival MEFCC Short Film Competition
Step 8: Click the “Submit Now” button.
Any more questions? Click here to understand the process better!
BEST SHORT FILM
DATES TO REMEMBER
Submissions Open:
28 November 2026
Submission Deadline:
06 February 2026
Shortlisted Films Announcement:
28 March 2026
Winners Announcement:
24 April 2026
Showcase Your Short Film At The MEFCC Main Stage
The shortlisted entries will be screened on the Main Stage during the weekend of MEFCC.
Participants will have the chance to connect with a diverse audience of film enthusiasts and potential collaborators.
Join us and be inspired by a diverse array of short films that will ignite your imagination and passion for film, stories, and pop culture.
Witness the power of storytelling as emerging filmmakers bring their unique visions to life on the big screen.
TIPS FOR CREATING A SHORT FILM
2025 SHORTLISTED FILMS 🎬
Check out the amazing short films that were screened at the Main Stage of MEFCC 2025!
Prepare to be captivated by a curated selection of incredible short films, showcasing the raw talent and creative vision of UAE-based filmmakers.
Don't miss your chance to experience these cinematic gems on the big screen!
MEET THE 2025 JUDGES
Faisal Hashmi
An award-winning Dubai-based film director known for his acclaimed horror and thriller shorts. With 1.5M+ YouTube views and multiple festival awards, he's now working on his feature film debut.
Razan Takash
Razan Takash is an award-winning Writer, Director, and Producer with 14+ years of experience, including work on Star Wars: The Force Awakens. She’s the Head of Film at SAE University College and the host of Razz Reviews
Waleed K. Hmidan
Waleed is an award-winning filmmaker who directed/produced several short films screened at local and international film festivals. He is a comic bookstore owner and journalist.
Sameer Al Jaberi
As Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, Sameer Al Jaberi is responsible for all aspects of the entity, overseeing the rebate and locations departments as well as the industry directory and government services, which support the production ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.
Salwa Al Hadhrami
Salwa Al Hadhrami is a media professional and accomplished producer with over 12 years of industry experience. As the Creative Content Lead at the Creative Media Authority, she plays a pivotal role in overseeing and managing high-profile productions across international and regional markets.