Deadline: 1 June 2024
The Al Qasimi Foundation is seeking applications for its Film Grants to provide modest start-up funding to create short films on topics relevant to the United Arab Emirates and the broader Gulf region.
Documentaries are prioritized, and up to two (2) grants are awarded annually through a competitive application process. Films produced through the Al Qasimi Foundation Film Grants are screened at the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival the following year.
Objectives
- Increase the number of short films and documentaries on topics relevant to the United Arab Emirates and Gulf region;
- Present a wider range of stories about Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates;
- Support talented young film directors and media professionals to help them establish their careers.
Grant Information
- Grant funds may be used for production-related activities only. Anticipated expenses should be detailed in the proposed budget during the grant application process. Examples of acceptable production-related expenses include:
- Location and equipment rentals such as studio time or lighting and sound equipment necessary for filming;
- Make-up, costumes, or props;
- Commission or purchase of music soundtracks;
- Editing or animation software;
- Arabic/English translation and subtitles.
- Grant Amount: 25,000 AED
- Successful applicants will have 5-6 months to complete the production of their short film. The Al Qasimi Foundation and Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival reserve the right to check the film’s quality and flow during the production process and edit the story as needed with the director.
Eligibility Criteria
- Directors must have a background in filmmaking and/or media studies;
- Preference is given to directors who are either (1) current university students who have completed at least two years of their academic program, or (2) have graduated with their BA or MA degree within the last five years;
- Directors ideally will have shown at least one film at a film festival in the United Arab Emirates, Gulf region, or overseas;
- Proposed story ideas must be for a short film (less than 30 minutes). Documentary projects addressing important topics relevant to the United Arab Emirates and Gulf region are especially encouraged and given funding priority; and
- Final films must be in Arabic or English (with subtitles in the other language) to ensure accessibility among diverse audiences.
For more information, visit Al Qasimi Foundation.
