DANA Film Festival is the UAE's premier platform celebrating independent cinema from the Arab world and beyond. Founded in Dubai and spanning across the Emirates, DANA is a festival dedicated to the art of storytelling — where every frame carries meaning and every story deserves to be seen.
Raw. Real. Reel.
In its landmark inaugural edition, DANA Film Festival 2027 brings together filmmakers, artists, and cinema lovers for a vibrant multi-city celebration of film. From feature films and documentaries to short films and experimental works, DANA welcomes stories rooted in humanity, culture, and creative vision.
What to expect at DANA 2027:
Official screenings across multiple Emirates including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah
Industry panels and filmmaker Q&A sessions
Networking events connecting regional talent with international industry professionals
Awards across key categories including Best Feature, Best Short, Best Documentary, and Best Arab Film
A festival built on cultural exchange, artistic excellence, and the enduring power of cinema
DANA Film Festival is a celebration of film in its most honest and powerful form. Whether you are a first-time filmmaker or an established director, DANA is your stage.
Submit your film. Share your story.
Lights. Camera. DANA — where cinema comes alive.
