MEFCC Short Film Competition

THEME: DREAMS

Shortlisted Films to be announced on 3rd April 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.

Illustration representing diverse young filmmakers and cinema fans inspired by the MEFCC 2025 Short Film Competition theme ‘Strength’.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Cartoon-style robot character punching upward above a comic burst with “Entry Requirements” text, representing MEFCC Short Film Competition rules.

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 AI Usage in all submissions, including in the short film, promotional materials and submission.

Exclude Commercial Content: The short film should not feature or promote any specific brands, products, or companies.

Exclusive to UAE-based Filmmakers: Entries from UAE Residents and Nationals only.

Cartoon-style robot in a detective hat above a comic burst with “Judging Criteria” text, symbolising the judging process at MEFCC Short Film Competition.

Storytelling and Narrative: Judges will assess how well the narrative is structured, including the beginning, middle, and end.

Technical Skills: This criterion focuses on the technical execution of the film, which includes the quality of production and the filmmaker's ability to use technical elements effectively to enhance the storytelling.

Theme Integration: Judges will assess how well the film aligns with the competition's theme.

Overall Impact: Judges will evaluate the film's ability to leave a lasting impression on the audience and judges. It considers the emotional, intellectual, and artistic impact of the film as a whole.

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

Cash prizes for MEFCC Short Film Competition—AED 10,000 for 1st place, AED 6,000 for 2nd, and AED 4,000 for 3rd.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Submissions Open:

28 November 2025

Shortlisted Films Announcement:

3 April 2026

Winners Announcement:

11 September 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.

Audience in cosplay applauding and filming during a live screening at MEFCC, showcasing excitement and fan engagement at the Main Stage.

Close-up of a smiling audience enjoying a short film screening at MEFCC's Main Stage, reflecting emotional connection and enthusiasm.

Diverse cosplay audience immersed in a film screening at MEFCC 2025, capturing the vibrant pop culture community atmosphere.

TIPS FOR CREATING A SHORT FILM

Simplify Your story

While creating a story for a short film, focus on stories that work in few minutes. A good logline can help you focus your idea and keep you from wandering too far. If you cannot describe your story's conflict in a basic logline, then you need to revisit your story.

ESSENTIAL RESOURCES FOR CREATING A SHORT FILM

How-to-make-a-short-film-Studio Binder

The-complete-guide-to-making-your-first-short-film-The Electronic Pen

How to Make Your First Short Film: A Crash Course - Standard Story Company-

Make A Short Film - WIKI HOW

5 Essential Editing Tips for Short Films! — The Film Look.

6 Tips for Writing Short Film Scripts That Connect

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.

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.

Ivor Gracias

Ivor is an award-winning short film producer with over 18 films to his credit, many of which have won international awards and screened at major festivals worldwide

Maitha Alawadi

Maitha is an award-winning Emirati film director, scriptwriter, and TV presenter with over a decade of experience across the UAE, UK, Australia, and India. Her work spans feature films, short films, documentaries, branded content, and series development.

11 - 13 September 2026

BEGINS IN: