About Al Ain International Film Festival

The Al Ain International Film Festival (AIFF) is a non-profit annual event held in the city of Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. Established in 2019 by Emirati writer and director Amer Salmeen Al Murry, the festival runs under the slogan “Cinema of the Future.”

Since its inception, AIFF has become a local and international platform that brings together outstanding films from the UAE, the Middle East, and around the world, with a strong focus on supporting emerging talents, encouraging film production, and highlighting cultural diversity.

🎯 Vision & Mission

  • Vision: To be a leading regional platform for the Cinema of the Future.
  • Mission: To support talents, strengthen the film industry, and connect Emirati culture with the world.

📌 Impact & Achievements

  • Hosting hundreds of films from across the globe.
  • Welcoming renowned filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals.
  • Presenting unique competitions, awards, and cultural initiatives that distinguish AIFF from other festivals.

🌿 Unique Identity

Held in Al Ain, a city rich in heritage, nature, and academia, the festival blends Emirati authenticity with global modernity, giving AIFF a unique identity on the regional and international film map.

🎬 Main Sections of the Festival

  • Film Competitions (Feature, Short, and Documentary).
  • Industry Days & specialized training workshops.
  • Public screenings at cultural and heritage venues.
  • Side events: panels, dialogues, and youth & children’s programs.

🌍 Partnerships & International Participation

Since its launch, AIFF has established a wide network of partnerships with film institutions and organizations across the Gulf region, the Arab world, and internationally, through cooperation agreements that foster talent development and cultural exchange.

The festival has also participated in major global platforms, most notably the Cannes Film Festival, where it hosted its own booth within the Cannes Film Market. This provided a valuable opportunity to showcase the festival’s identity and expand its international partnerships.

These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at:

  • Promoting AIFF on the international stage.
  • Positioning Al Ain as a cultural and touristic hub, bridging heritage and cinema, and connecting local creativity with global innovation.