The META Film Fest is set to return to Dubai for its second edition, scheduled to take place from November 9 to 12. This annual international motion picture gala showcases the best of global cinema and offers an exceptional celebration of film for filmmakers, industry experts, and movie enthusiasts alike.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition in the previous year, the META Film Fest 2023 aims to deliver an unparalleled experience. It will feature high-quality content, workshops, and masterclasses tailored for emerging filmmakers, premieres of cutting-edge independent and studio-produced films, and a prestigious judging panel composed of prominent figures from the industry.
The festival has garnered support from content partners such as the Royal Film Commission – Jordan, Papillon Creative, Frontrow Entertainment, and MAD Solutions, as well as Festival Partners including Cinema Akil. The event will be held at VOX Cinemas, Wafi City, contributing to Dubai’s Creative Economy and supporting the UAE’s National Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries.
Leila Masinaei, Founder of META Film Fest, emphasized the festival’s role in establishing Dubai as a hub for filmmakers and creatives to gather, exchange knowledge, and promote their work. The event has gained significant recognition from movie enthusiasts and industry professionals, and this year’s edition is expected to showcase a greater number of films of exceptional quality.
The META Film Fest adopts an independent and objective approach in its selection process to highlight the best talent in the regional film industry. Over the four days of the festival, more than 70 films from 20+ countries will be screened, along with 10+ workshops. The event will also welcome over 50 global celebrities and anticipates an audience of 15,000 attendees. The official lineup of selected films will be announced in the coming weeks.
At the heart of the festival is the star-studded red-carpet awards ceremony, expected to draw luminaries from the film and entertainment sectors, as well as international and regional celebrities. The awards ceremony will recognize outstanding films across 12 categories, encompassing feature films, short films, documentaries, debut works, student projects, films with a sustainability focus, and newly introduced special categories to celebrate UAE talent.
Under the theme of “Cinema and Sustainability,” the festival has partnered with eco-friendly lifestyle and homeware brand Innara as its official Sustainability Sponsor. This initiative aligns with the festival’s goal to spotlight sustainability practices within the film industry.
The META Film Fest is organized by GM Events in partnership with VOX Cinemas and Wafi City. Stephanie-Alexandra Chartier, Group Head of Marketing at Wafi Group, highlighted the partnership’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s creative economy strategy. Sanjay Patney, Vice President – Sales and Marketing at Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, emphasized the significance of the festival as a platform for filmmakers and industry stakeholders to connect, share ideas, and showcase their creativity on the big screen.
Film enthusiasts are encouraged to mark their calendars for November 9 to 12 and join the META Film Fest, where they can embark on an unforgettable cinematic journey, interact with industry professionals, and become part of the burgeoning film community in the heart of Dubai. Additional updates and announcements will be provided in due course.
