HollyShorts Dubai Wraps First Edition, Launches Competition for Middle East Film Students

HollyShorts Dubai, which just wrapped its first edition providing Arab filmmakers a direct pipeline to Academy Awards consideration, is launching a dedicated short films competition for college students across the Middle East and beyond. 

The latest spin-off of the long-running Oscar and BAFTA-qualifying HollyShorts Film Festival in L.A. ran Dec. 12-14 at Firdaus Studio in Expo City, Dubai where a highlight of the closing ceremony was a keynote by BAFTA winner Hayder Rothschild Hoozeer, producer of the 2024 student short “Rock, Paper, Scissors” based on a true story that takes place during the Ukraine war.

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“We are thrilled with the reception from the local film community in Dubai, which welcomed us with open arms,” HollyShorts founder Theo Dumont said in a statement. “Their support was unbelievable and provided a strong foundation for us to continue in the direction of providing a valuable film festival, stressing educational initiatives and key networking opportunities.”

The announcement of the added HollyShorts Dubai student films strand was made by Jeff Pryor, the former MGM Studios VP of corporate communication who serves as HollyShorts Dubai strategic advisor.

“The talent bubbling within our region’s universities is extraordinary, yet often lacks a direct pathway to industry recognition,” said Pryor. “By creating a dedicated student competition, we are lowering barriers to entry and offering aspiring directors, producers, and writers the invaluable chance to have their voices heard, receive professional feedback, and network with established industry professionals during the festival.”

The second edition of HollyShorts Dubai is scheduled to run Jan. 14-17, 2027.