Eligibility
• The festival accepts feature films, short films, documentaries, animated films, and experimental works.
• Films from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, as well as the MENA diaspora, are eligible.
• International films that explore themes relevant to the MENA region may also be considered.
• Films must have been produced within the last three years unless otherwise specified.
Submissions
All submissions must be made via FilmFreeway and include a secure online screener. Filmmakers should provide the following to meet submission criteria:
• Film link
• Film poster
• Synopsis
• Selection of stills and short biography of the director
• Films not in English or Arabic must include English subtitles
• Works-in-progress may be submitted but must be completed prior to screening if selected
Fees
• The submission fee is 15 USD or equivalent. This modest fee helps cover basic administrative costs and keeps the festival accessible to independent filmmakers.
• Submission fees are non-refundable.
• Fee waivers may be granted at the festival’s discretion.
Selection Process
• Films are selected by the festival’s selection committee.
• All selection decisions are final.
• The festival reserves the right to determine screening sections, dates, times, formats, and venues.
• Selected films may not be withdrawn after acceptance without written approval from the festival.
Online Screening and Audience Award
• Selected films may be made available for online screening as part of the festival program.
• Films screened online will be eligible for the Audience Award.
• Audience voting will take place via the festival’s official website.
• The festival reserves the right to determine the duration, timing, and geographic availability of online screenings.
