Stories that unite us through our differences.

Submit your film to AKUFF 2026 and join filmmakers from around the world in exploring the many faces of inclusion.

Why Submit?

International exposure in Lebanon and the Arab region.

Engagement with a theme that is globally relevant and socially impactful.

Opportunities to connect with filmmakers, students, and industry professionals.

Recognition through juried awards and audience appreciation.

A welcoming platform dedicated to emerging voices and independent cinema.

We believe every film has the power to open minds, challenge perceptions, and bring people closer together. We look forward to discovering stories that inspire dialogue and celebrate our shared humanity.

Awards & Prizes

The festival will present awards including:

Best Short Film
Best student Film
Best Actor/Actress
Best Cinematography
Best Editing
Best Sound
Audience Choice Award

Rules & Terms

Al-Kafaat University Film Festival (AKUFF) – Rules & Terms

By submitting to AKUFF, you agree to the following terms:

ELIGIBILITY
• Open to filmmakers from all countries.
• Films must be completed on or after January 1, 2024.
• All genres and categories are accepted (Narrative, Documentary, Animation, Experimental, Student Films etc...)
• All Films must include English subtitles.

RUNTIME
• Up to 30 minutes.

SUBMISSION
• All entries must be submitted through Film Freeway.
• The submitter must own all necessary rights for the film, including music, images, and archival materials.
• Films shot in Lebanon should enclose a copy of the Lebanese general security shooting permit.

SELECTION
• All films are reviewed by the AKUFF Selection Committee.
• Selection decisions are final.
• AKU reserves the right to place selected films in the most appropriate category.

OFFICIAL SELECTION
Selected filmmakers may be required to provide:
• High-quality screening file (MP4, ProRes, or DCP)
• Poster artwork
• Production stills
• Director biography and photo

PROMOTIONAL RIGHTS
By submitting, filmmakers authorize AKUFF to use film stills, posters, trailers, press materials, and excerpts of up to 2 minutes for promotional purposes related to the festival.

SCREENING RIGHTS
Selected films grant AKUFF the non-exclusive right to screen the film during the festival. Copyright remains entirely with the filmmaker.
No screening fees will be provided by AKUFF.

WITHDRAWAL
Films may not be withdrawn after official selection has been confirmed, except under exceptional circumstances approved by the festival.

FESTIVAL THEME 2026
RESPECT FOR DIVERSITY – Celebrating diversity, dialogue, coexistence, and the many perspectives that shape our shared human experience.

FINAL NOTE
AKUFF welcomes bold, creative, and meaningful stories from around the world. We are committed to creating an inclusive platform where emerging and established filmmakers can connect with audiences, industry professionals, and fellow artists.

Al-Kafaat University Film Festival (AKUFF)