Arab Cinema Week returns to Cinema Akil this May
Few venues have altered the cultural landscape of Dubai like Cinema Akil – not only is it the first arthouse cinema in the region, but it has also been instrumental in building awareness of independent filmmaking in both the UAE and the Middle East as a whole. Now, the independent cinema is gearing up to host its Arab Cinema Week from 2 to 11 May, bringing with it both stories and talent from the region.
Arab Cinema Week Volume 4 promises to be a spectacular journey into the heart of Arab cinema. Spanning ten countries and a diverse mix of genres, this year's Arab Cinema Week delves into the soul of a region in flux. Volume 4 is ultimately a celebration of people—their struggles, their resilience, and the dreams that keep them moving forward. Of the ten feature films selected, six will have their Gulf premieres, and three will screen in the UAE for the first time.
Arab Cinema Week opens with a chilling psychological horror from the UAE—Three by Nayla Al Khaja. Rooted in themes of tradition, faith, and the supernatural, the film sets the tone for a powerful program that spans ten Arab countries and an array of genres/
Following the opening night, the lineup includes The Village Next to Paradise by Mo Harawe, a poetic drama set in a Somali village grappling with survival and dreams, and Arzé by Mira Shaib, a tender yet humorous portrait of a mother and son navigating Beirut's sectarian fault lines in search of a stolen scooter. Mond, directed by Kurdwin Ayub, follows an Austrian martial artist into the cloistered world of three Jordanian sisters where power and identity collide.
Other highlights include Saify by Wael Abu Mansour from Saudi Arabia, blending nostalgic humor with poignant reflection, and Aicha by Mehdi Barsaoui, a powerful account of a woman who fakes her own death to escape oppression—only to confront even deeper scars.
In the documentary section, Abo Zaabal 89 by Bassam Mortada offers a moving father-son reflection on the weight of political decisions, while In My Memory is Full of Ghosts by Anas Zawahri explores the haunting beauty of post-war Homs. Finally, Sudan, Remember Us by Hind Meddeb, chronicles the unyielding spirit of Sudan's youth amid the country's ongoing political unrest.
This year's edition continues to spotlight the dynamic evolution of Arab cinema, with nearly half of the featured films directed by women, underscoring Cinema Akil's ongoing commitment to championing Arab women's voices both in front of and behind the camera. Select screenings will also feature Q&A sessions with the filmmakers, providing audiences with a deeper insight into the stories and creative visions on screen.
Grab your tickets now. It's going to be a blockbuster event.
GO: Visit www.cinemaakil.com for tickets and more information.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Campaign ME
10 hours ago
- Campaign ME
Miramax partners with Doha Film Institute to elevate Arabic-language storytelling
Miramax, the global film and television studio owned by beIN MEDIA GROUP (beIN) and Paramount Global, has revealed details about its partnership with Doha Film Institute (DFI) to launch the DFI x Miramax Writer's Programme. Aimed at supporting the development of premium, local Arabic-language content across the Middle East and North Africa, the programme will provide training, mentorship, and production and distribution resources for both emerging and established Arab writers. It will offer critical support for their projects, contributing to the expansion of the region's series content output, and strengthening Qatar's position as a leading media hub in the Middle East. 'At Miramax, we believe great storytelling knows no borders,' said Jonathan Glickman, CEO, Miramax. 'This partnership with DFI is a powerful step toward amplifying emerging Arabic-language voices and sharing their stories with audiences worldwide.' The DFI x Miramax Writer's Programme will involve the selection of up to five local and regional projects to develop each year. The Writer's Programme will tie into DFI's existing Series Programmes, with the goal of extending the reach and impact of these initiatives. The collaboration between Miramax, renowned for its film and television productions, and DFI, the leading film institute in the Middle East, addresses a key gap in the region's media industry by offering not only development support but also direct access to Miramax's vast distribution and sales network to reach audiences worldwide. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of DFI said, 'At Doha Film Institute, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling to unite, inspire, and celebrate cultural identity. Our partnership with Miramax marks an exciting new chapter in championing original Arabic-language content that reflects the depth and diversity of our region. By creating compelling stories in our own voice, we not only preserve our heritage but also bring communities closer together through the universal language of cinema.' Miramax has had a standout year across both film and television, with highlights including Academy Award®-nominated The Holdovers; The Beekeeper, which grossed more than $160m worldwide; indie-hit Strange Darling; Golden Globe-nominated series The Gentlemen, which launched in March 2024, ranking #1 for three weeks on Netflix; and the fourth installment of the Bridget Jones franchise – Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, which premiered February 14, 2025. Upcoming Miramax projects include: Roofman, starring Channing Tatum, Kirsten Dunst and Peter Dinklage, set to premiere October 10, 2025, with Paramount Pictures distributing domestically and in the UK; the next installment in the Scary Movie franchise, set to premiere Summer 2026, distributed globally by Paramount Pictures, with Marlon, Shawn, and Keenen Ivory Wayans writing and producing; Colman Domingo's directorial debut Scandalous, starring Sydney Sweeney and David Jonsson; and The Faculty remake, being written by breakout talent Drew Hancock.
Sharjah 24
21 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Theatre Days launches its 35th edition next March
Preparations for the new edition In preparation for the upcoming edition, the Supreme Organising Committee of the event held its first meeting, chaired by Ahmed Bourhaima, Director of the Theatre Department at the Sharjah Department of Culture and Director of Sharjah Theatre Days, in the presence of committee members Ismail Abdullah, Mohammed Jamal, and Abdullah Rashid. Highlights of the previous edition The meeting reviewed the main features of the previous edition, praising the efforts of the participating theatre troupes and the contributions of creatives in the accompanying critical and intellectual programmes. It also commended the local and Arab media coverage that accompanied the event. Submissions open until 30 November The committee continues to accept participation applications from theatre troupes until 30 November, ahead of the announcement of the programme for the 35th edition of Sharjah Theatre Days. Established in 1984, the festival is one of the UAE's foremost cultural and artistic events, serving as an annual platform for competition among Emirati theatre troupes for a range of awards recognising excellence in the performing arts. Series of accompanying cultural activities The event will include a series of accompanying cultural activities, featuring artists and thinkers from within the UAE and abroad, aimed at supporting and developing the theatre movement and enhancing theatrical culture within the community .
Emirates Woman
a day ago
- Emirates Woman
Here's how these Emirati & homegrown jewellery brands are changing the UAE's design scene
Fashion by Aminath Ifasa August 19, 2025 When we talk about Arab culture, the time-honored tradition of adorning oneself with exquisite jewellery takes center stage. Discover an array of labels rooted in Emirati heritage or crafted by the UAE's thriving creative community. From the regal elegance of Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery to the contemporary allure of Noora Shawqi and the bold designs of Toi Jewellery, homegrown talent is redefining luxury. Meanwhile, brands like Oria and Bymystique bring a global perspective with locally loved designs. Here are our favorite Emirati and homegrown jewellery brands to champion this Eid Al Adha Jewellery holds the magical ability to elevate any look—whether you're draped in an elegant abaya, dressed in contemporary tailoring, or transitioning from daytime family gatherings to evening soirées. A single statement piece, like a cuff bracelet or a layered necklace, can transform simplicity into sophistication, while delicate stacking rings or bold chandelier earrings effortlessly shift your ensemble from understated morning wear to glamorous night-time allure. How to style your jewellery look Less is more Let a solitaire diamond ring or sleek gold bangle shine by keeping other accessories minimal. Mix metals with intention Combine rose gold and silver tones for a modern, layered look. Balance statement pieces Pair an emerald neckpiece with delicate studs to avoid overwhelming your outfit. Timeless classics A pearl-adorned bracelet or chandelier earrings instantly elevates simple silhouettes. Play with textures Combine matte gold hoops with a high-polish diamond pendant for dimension. Consider necklines V-necks work beautifully with pendants, while high necklines call for dramatic earrings. Whether you're drawn to the timeless sophistication of Emirati-owned ateliers or the innovative spirit of Dubai-based designers, these homegrown brands offer something truly special. As you gather with loved ones, may your chosen pieces not only elevate your ensemble but also carry the essence of the UAE's flourishing jewellery scene. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied Feature Image: Supplied
