The European Union Delegation to the United Arab Emirates, in partnership with the Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi, a cultural centre under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), and with the support of EU Member States Embassies and Cultural Institutes in the UAE, is organising the second annual European Film Festival in Abu Dhabi next week from 23rd to 29th June 2025. Attendees can expect to be transported to diverse landscapes, experience captivating narratives, and witness the power of European storytelling. 

This year's festival features a curated selection of 17 European films from a diverse range of countries, including Latvia (Flow), Poland (Dangerous Gentlemen), Netherlands (Bigman), Malta (Carmen), Germany (Two To One), Czechia (Living Large), Austria (Mond), France (The Musicians), Italy (Io Sto Bene), Bulgaria (The Trap), Lithuania (Remember to blink), Ireland (Tarrac), Hungary (Four Souls of Coyote), Sweden (UFO Sweden), Spain (Ramona), Romania (Horia), and Slovenia (Riders).  

In a significant first for the festival, an Emirati film will also be featured: "Mountain Boy." This compelling production was brought to life by a dedicated team of 32 Emirati cast and crew members, including the talented Emirati film director, Zainab Shaheen.

The Festival will be held at the Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi, offering admission with a fee per film and a pass for all week’s screenings. This presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in both European and Emirati cultures, discover exceptional cinematic talent, and engage in a vibrant exchange of ideas. 

The European Film Festival will also host a free three-day workshop titled “Developing and Funding Films: From Concept to Creation”. The workshop will be led by an esteemed European film expert, Graziella Bildesheim, an award-winning producer with over 30 years of experience in the film industry. The workshop is specifically designed for producers, aspiring filmmakers, screenwriters, and industry professionals. Participants will have the chance to hone their craft, learn from experienced professionals, and connect with fellow creatives. 

The Film Festival is designed to foster collaboration between EU and UAE film professionals, promote cultural exchange and empower local talent through the sharing of insights and best practices.

For the full festival programme, tickets, and further information, please visit www.euff.ae.

The European Film Festival (EUFF) is a global initiative organised by the European Union in over 90 countries worldwide, including several Arab and Gulf countries, aiming to promote European culture, diversity, and values through the powerful medium of films.