Latest news with #Freej
Gulf Today
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Sultan attends opening of 3rd Sharjah Animation Conference
His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the opening of the third edition of the Sharjah Animation Conference. This came in the presence of Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority. The event, the first of its kind in the region, is organised by the Sharjah Book Authority and takes place from May 1 to 4 at the Expo Centre Sharjah. Extensive programme and global participation During the opening, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah was briefed on this year's conference agenda, which features a rich lineup of specialised events including 26 professional workshops, 21 interactive panel discussions, film screenings, and themed exhibitions. The conference hosts 72 speakers from among the world's top animation creators. His Highness also toured the conference halls and exhibitor booths, learning about the creative tools presented by participating entities from around the globe. Celebrating Arab animation His Highness also viewed a short creative film produced by the Sharjah Book Authority. The film, presented in a visually rich and narratively innovative style, chronicled key milestones in the development of animation in the Arab world — from its early days in tents and marketplaces to modern productions that shaped generations, such as 'Bakkar,' 'Freej,' and 'Shaabiat Al Cartoon.' Sheikh Sultan with dignitaries at the event. The film shed light on early Arab efforts in animation, prominent regional productions in the 20th century, and the role of dubbing in reintroducing global works through an Arab voice and identity. It also spotlighted the 'Spacetoon' experience, which marked a transformative moment in Arab children's media. The film concluded with an inspiring message affirming that Sharjah is paving the way for Arab content creators to produce visual works rooted in their culture and delivered to the world in the language of Arab creativity. Opening remarks by Khoula Al Mujaini In her opening speech, Khoula Al Mujaini, Executive Director of the Conference, stated: 'We inaugurate the Sharjah Animation Conference, a comprehensive initiative launched by the Sharjah Book Authority under the patronage of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, and under the supervision and guidance of the Chairperson of the Authority, to empower content creation in the Arab world through new tools and innovative approaches.' Al Mujaini added that the conference embodies Sharjah's vision of establishing a sustainable environment for content creation, through an integrated year-round ecosystem designed to discover, develop, and connect talents with production and publishing platforms. It serves as a bridge between publishing and production, writers and illustrators, imagination and execution, and between the generation writing today and the one that will dream twenty years from now. She concluded by saying: 'It's time to tell our stories ourselves. The Arab world is brimming with exceptional talent that needs not creativity — but rather space, opportunity, and support. Today in Sharjah, we dream, plan, and work so that the world may one day watch world-class animated works with an Arab identity — rooted in our culture, speaking our language, touching the hearts of our children, and captivating global audiences.' Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of 'du,' the official sponsor of the conference, said: 'Our sponsorship of this conference stems from our deep belief in the importance of investing in culture and creativity as drivers of positive change and key enablers of the future economy.' Celebrating Japanese anime and global industry icons This year, the conference celebrates the art of Japanese anime, which has influenced generations of animation lovers worldwide. It welcomes a distinguished lineup of Japanese creators, including Masayuki Miyaji and Tamiya Terashima, both of whom contributed to iconic Studio Ghibli productions such as Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro. The event also features Tom Bancroft, CEO of Pencilish Animation Studios, Tony Bancroft, known for his work on Disney's Mulan and Aladdin, and Sandro Cleuzo, the character designer behind Anastasia, Tarzan, and Chip 'n Dale. A platform for global trends and creative synergy Now in its third edition, the Sharjah Animation Conference is advancing its status as an international platform for exploring the latest trends in animation. This year's discussions include intersections between animation and artificial intelligence, visual storytelling, and adapting literary works into visual productions — affirming that animation today is a universal language where art, technology, and cultures converge.
Zawya
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Sharjah Ruler opens 3rd annual edition of Sharjah Animation Conference
Sharjah, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the third edition of the Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC 2025) recently at Expo Centre Sharjah, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). Organised by SBA, SAC 2025 runs from May 1 to 4 and stands as the region's first event of its kind—uniting professionals, emerging talent, and enthusiasts in the world of animation for four days of dynamic exchange, innovation, and collaboration. During the opening, His Highness was briefed on this year's rich programme, which includes 26 specialised workshops, 21 interactive panel discussions, curated film screenings, and exhibitions, all led by 72 international industry leaders. His Highness also toured the conference halls and exhibitor pavilions, engaging with the latest animation tools, technologies, and creative expressions from around the globe. Celebrating the legacy of Arab animation A highlight of the opening ceremony was a short film produced by SBA that traced the vibrant history of Arab animation. From early beginnings in tents and souks to modern classics such as Bakkar, Freej, and Shaabiat Al Cartoon, the film offered a heartfelt tribute to the region's storytelling traditions and artistic innovation. The film also honoured the pivotal role of Arabic dubbing in localising international animated content and making it culturally resonant for Arab audiences. It spotlighted the enduring influence of Spacetoon in transforming children's media across the region. The screening concluded with a powerful affirmation of Sharjah's commitment to nurturing Arab creators and promoting original, culturally grounded content for a global audience. Khoula Al Mujaini: It is time for us to tell our own stories In her opening remarks, Khoula Al Mujaini, Executive Director of SAC, described the conference as a strategic initiative under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and the guidance of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi. She stressed the event's mission to bolster Arab content creation through innovative, future-facing approaches. Al Mujaini highlighted Sharjah's sustained commitment to building a robust content creation ecosystem through year-round initiatives that identify and elevate talent. 'The conference connects publishing and production, authors and illustrators, imagination and realisation, and today's storytellers with the dreamers of tomorrow,' she said. 'It is time for us to tell our own stories. The Arab world is abundant with exceptional talent that lacks neither creativity nor ambition, but simply requires the opportunity, space, and support to flourish. Here in Sharjah, we are imagining, planning, and taking action to ensure that, in the near future, the world will experience animation of international standard, rooted in Arab identity, expressive of our culture, articulated in our language, resonant with our children, and captivating to global audiences,' she concluded. du CEO lauds SAC's central role in guiding emerging talent into UAE's digital future Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du, SAC's official sponsor, affirmed the telecom provider's belief in creativity as a driver of transformation and economic progress: 'Our support for SAC stems from a firm belief in culture and creativity as catalysts for positive transformation and vital components of the future economy. This international event aligns with our vision to empower a new generation of creative storytellers who will shape the digital landscape of our region.' He added that SAC plays a critical role in enabling emerging talent to participate meaningfully in the UAE's digital future. Honouring Japanese anime artistry This year, SAC pays special tribute to the global legacy of Japanese anime, welcoming esteemed creators including Masayuki Miyaji and Tamiya Terashima, both of whom contributed to Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro with Studio Ghibli. The international lineup also features Tom Bancroft, founder of Pencilish Animation Studios; Tony Bancroft, Disney animator known for Mulan and Aladdin; and Sandro Cleuzo, celebrated for his work on Anastasia, Tarzan, and Chip 'n' Dale. Now in its third edition, the Sharjah Animation Conference continues to grow as a global hub for exploring the future of animation. This year's programme delves into intersections between artificial intelligence, visual storytelling, and literary adaptation, reinforcing the message that animation is a universal medium where culture, technology, and imagination converge.
Sharjah 24
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Sultan Al Qasimi attends opening of 3rd Sharjah Animation Conf.
This came in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority. The event, the first of its kind in the region, is organised by the Sharjah Book Authority and takes place from May 1 to 4 at the Expo Centre Sharjah. Extensive Programme and Global Participation During the opening, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah was briefed on this year's conference agenda, which features a rich lineup of specialised events including 26 professional workshops, 21 interactive panel discussions, film screenings, and themed exhibitions. The conference hosts 72 speakers from among the world's top animation creators. His Highness also toured the conference halls and exhibitor booths, learning about the creative tools presented by participating entities from around the globe. Celebrating Arab Animation His Highness also viewed a short creative film produced by the Sharjah Book Authority. The film, presented in a visually rich and narratively innovative style, chronicled key milestones in the development of animation in the Arab world—from its early days in tents and marketplaces to modern productions that shaped generations, such as 'Bakkar,' 'Freej,' and 'Shaabiat Al Cartoon.' The film shed light on early Arab efforts in animation, prominent regional productions in the 20th century, and the role of dubbing in reintroducing global works through an Arab voice and identity. It also spotlighted the 'Spacetoon' experience, which marked a transformative moment in Arab children's media. The film concluded with an inspiring message affirming that Sharjah is paving the way for Arab content creators to produce visual works rooted in their culture and delivered to the world in the language of Arab creativity. Opening Remarks by Khoula Al Mujaini In her opening speech, Khoula Al Mujaini, Executive Director of the Conference, stated: 'We inaugurate the Sharjah Animation Conference, a comprehensive initiative launched by the Sharjah Book Authority under the patronage of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, and under the supervision and guidance of the Chairperson of the Authority, to empower content creation in the Arab world through new tools and innovative approaches.' Al Mujaini added that the conference embodies Sharjah's vision of establishing a sustainable environment for content creation, through an integrated year-round ecosystem designed to discover, develop, and connect talents with production and publishing platforms. It serves as a bridge between publishing and production, writers and illustrators, imagination and execution, and between the generation writing today and the one that will dream twenty years from now. She concluded by saying: 'It's time to tell our stories ourselves. The Arab world is brimming with exceptional talent that needs not creativity—but rather space, opportunity, and support. Today in Sharjah, we dream, plan, and work so that the world may one day watch world-class animated works with an Arab identity—rooted in our culture, speaking our language, touching the hearts of our children, and captivating global audiences.' 'du' CEO Highlights Investment in Culture and Creativity Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of 'du,' the official sponsor of the conference, said: 'Our sponsorship of this conference stems from our deep belief in the importance of investing in culture and creativity as drivers of positive change and key enablers of the future economy. The Sharjah Animation Conference reflects our shared vision of empowering a new generation of creators, storytellers, and content makers who are shaping the digital landscape in our region.' He added: 'Creativity is one of the pillars of the digital transformation we aspire to in the UAE, in line with the vision of our wise leadership. Conferences and events like this offer emerging talent the opportunity to refine their skills and provide all the tools and space needed for creativity and meaningful contribution to a more connected and innovative future.' Celebrating Japanese Anime and Global Industry Icons This year, the conference celebrates the art of Japanese anime, which has influenced generations of animation lovers worldwide. It welcomes a distinguished lineup of Japanese creators, including Masayuki Miyaji and Tamiya Terashima, both of whom contributed to iconic Studio Ghibli productions such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. The event also features Tom Bancroft, CEO of Pencilish Animation Studios, Tony Bancroft, known for his work on Disney's Mulan and Aladdin, and Sandro Cleuzo, the character designer behind Anastasia, Tarzan, and Chip 'n Dale. A Platform for Global Trends and Creative Synergy Now in its third edition, the Sharjah Animation Conference is advancing its status as an international platform for exploring the latest trends in animation. This year's discussions include intersections between animation and artificial intelligence, visual storytelling, and adapting literary works into visual productions—affirming that animation today is a universal language where art, technology, and cultures converge.
Mid East Info
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Emirates NBD celebrates the spirit of Ramadan with new 'Riddles with Freej' Contest - Middle East Business News and Information
Customers have the chance to win AED 10,000 each week this Ramadan with Emirates NBD's Freej Contest The Bank marks the Year of Community by entertaining audiences while spreading impactful social messages Dubai, UAE,March 2025:Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey (MENAT) region, is celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadan with a unique contest featuring the beloved Emirati animated series, 'Freej'. The contest aims to engage and entertain audiences while highlighting the values and traditions of Ramadan through their favourite Freej characters and their vibrant personalities. Participants also have the chance to win AED 10,000 in the process. Marwan Hadi, Group Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management at Emirates NBD, said: 'Ramadan is a time to embrace the values that unite us, such as kindness, generosity and compassion. Through this campaign, we aim to educate and inspire people to adopt these principles, fostering a deeper understanding of the true meaning of the Holy Month. The Freej characters help us to deliver this message in an interactive and light-hearted manner, and we invite everyone to participate for a chance to win exciting prizes along the way.' Weekly episodes will be released throughout the Holy Month, leading up to the final episode during the last week of Ramadan. Each episode will portray a specific theme centered around values such as generosity, kindness, empathy and respect, depicted through habits such as donating, volunteering, and reducing food waste, among others. At the end of each episode, viewers will have the opportunity to answer a question related to the episode's theme in the comments section below the video for a chance to win AED 10,000. The initiative is in line with Emirates NBD's commitment to community engagement and reflects the bank's supports to the UAE's 'Year of Community' as announced earlier this year by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi. The contest provides a fun, engaging platform for families and individuals to connect with Emirati heritage while celebrating the spirit of Ramadan. You can catch the Ramadan Freej episodes on Emirates NBD's social channels each week and stand a chance to win big this Ramadan. About Emirates NBD: Emirates NBD (DFM: Emirates NBD) is a leading banking group in the MENAT (Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye) region with a presence in 13 countries, serving over 9 million active customers. As at 31st December 2024, total assets were AED 997 billion, (equivalent to approx. USD 271 billion). The Group has operations in the UAE, Egypt, India, Türkiye, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Austria, Germany, Russia and Bahrain and representative offices in China and Indonesia with a total of 848 branches and 4,601 ATMs / SDMs. Emirates NBD is the leading financial services brand in the UAE with a Brand value of USD 3.87 billion. Emirates NBD Group serves its customers (individuals, businesses, governments, and institutions) and helps them realise their financial objectives through a range of banking products and services including retail banking, corporate and institutional banking, Islamic banking, investment banking, private banking, asset management, global markets and treasury, and brokerage operations. The Group is a key participant in the global digital banking industry with 97% of all financial transactions and requests conducted outside of its branches. The Group also operates Liv, the lifestyle digital bank by Emirates NBD, with close to half a million users, it continues to be the fastest-growing bank in the region. Emirates NBD contributes to the construction of a sustainable future as an active participant and supporter of the UAE's main development and sustainability initiatives, including financial wellness and the inclusion of people of determination. Emirates NBD is committed to supporting the UAE's Year of Sustainability as Principal Banking Partner of COP28 and an early supporter to the Dubai Can sustainability initiative, a city-wide initiative aimed to reduce use of single-use plastic bottled water.
Web Release
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
Emirates NBD celebrates the spirit of Ramadan with new 'Riddles with Freej' Contest
Entertainment Business and Economics By Editor_wr Last updated Mar 11, 2025 Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey (MENAT) region, is celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadan with a unique contest featuring the beloved Emirati animated series, 'Freej'. The contest aims to engage and entertain audiences while highlighting the values and traditions of Ramadan through their favourite Freej characters and their vibrant personalities. Participants also have the chance to win AED 10,000 in the process. Marwan Hadi, Group Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management at Emirates NBD, said: 'Ramadan is a time to embrace the values that unite us, such as kindness, generosity and compassion. Through this campaign, we aim to educate and inspire people to adopt these principles, fostering a deeper understanding of the true meaning of the Holy Month. The Freej characters help us to deliver this message in an interactive and light-hearted manner, and we invite everyone to participate for a chance to win exciting prizes along the way.' Weekly episodes will be released throughout the Holy Month, leading up to the final episode during the last week of Ramadan. Each episode will portray a specific theme centered around values such as generosity, kindness, empathy and respect, depicted through habits such as donating, volunteering, and reducing food waste, among others. At the end of each episode, viewers will have the opportunity to answer a question related to the episode's theme in the comments section below the video for a chance to win AED 10,000. The initiative is in line with Emirates NBD's commitment to community engagement and reflects the bank's supports to the UAE's 'Year of Community' as announced earlier this year by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi. The contest provides a fun, engaging platform for families and individuals to connect with Emirati heritage while celebrating the spirit of Ramadan. You can catch the Ramadan Freej episodes on Emirates NBD's social channels each week and stand a chance to win big this Ramadan. Comments are closed.
