Dubai: Hala Badri, Director General of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), has visited the fourth edition of the Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert Festival at the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.
Organized by Dubai Culture, Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert Festival serves as a key initiative to encourage Dubai’s local film industry while offering a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers to showcase their creative work.
Running until 12 January under the theme ‘Where Stories Come To Life,’ this year’s edition features over 80 narrative films, attended by live musical performances, interactive workshops, and expert panels with distinguished directors and cinema specialists.
During her tour, Badri explored art facilities and murals by renowned artists such as Ghaleb Hawila, Abdulla Lutfi, and Mikhail Antykov, along with AI-powered art exhibits. Badri also visited pavilions hosting workshops and family-friendly activities desired to support filmmakers and fostering creative engagement.
Badri praised the diversity of the productions showcased at the festival, noting how they recall the vibrancy of Dubai’s cultural landscape. She reaffirmed Dubai Culture’s commitment to empowering local talent, encouraging innovation, and contributing to Dubai’s vision of becoming a global cultural hub. Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert Festival lineup includes performances by local artists such as Saif Al Ali, Alya Alshamsi, and Jaber Al Maazmi, alongside live music acts inspired by the UAE’s rich heritage.
For food lovers, the event presents a range of Emirati and international culinary delights. Highlights include Chef Maitha’s Presto, PDL Coffee Co., Machu Picchu, and Estkanah Chai. Traditional treats such as lugaimat and rigag, alongside cinema staples like popcorn and nachos, are also available. Chef Hanan catered the premier VIP gala dinner with a variety of traditional Emirati dishes.
The festival is held in partnership with organizations including Dubai Mounted Police, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Ambulance, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, the Roads and Transport Authority, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, The Climate Tribe, Lina Kattan, Emirates Airlines, Zayed University, Sandooq Al Watan, Emirates Photography Society, Maraya, Freej, Ferjan Dubai, and Immersee.
These collaborations emphasize the collective effort to create a venue that celebrates creativity, culture, and community.