1. General Rules

1.1. The Golden Dunes Dubai International Film Festival (GDFF) is an annual event celebrating global cinema, innovative storytelling, and emerging talents.
1.2. The festival is open to filmmakers worldwide, with a special emphasis on diverse voices, groundbreaking storytelling, and technological advancements in filmmaking.
1.3. The festival will take place annually in Dubai, UAE, featuring film screenings, industry panels, workshops, and networking events.
1.4. Submissions must be made before the official deadline to be considered.

2. Submission Guidelines

2.1. All films must be submitted through the affiliated film submission sites, Film Freeway.
2.2. Films must include English subtitles if the dialogue is in another language.
2.3. The submitter must hold full rights to the film, including music, visuals, and any AI-generated content.
2.4. Submission fees are non-refundable and vary by submission deadline.

3. Categories & Eligibility

3.1. Feature Films: Narrative or documentary films over 60 minutes.
3.2. Short Films: Fiction, documentary, or animated films under 30 minutes.
3.3. AI-Driven Films: Films significantly utilizing artificial intelligence in writing, directing, editing, or VFX.
3.4. Experimental Films: Works that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling and filmmaking.
3.5. Student Films: Films made by students (proof of enrollment required).
3.6. Arab Cinema Spotlight: A dedicated category for films from the Arab world, highlighting regional talent.
3.7. Commercial & Branded Content: High-quality commercials, branded films, and promotional content.
3.8. Animated Films: 2D, 3D, stop-motion, or experimental animated works

4. Selection & Judging

4.1. A jury of renowned filmmakers, industry experts, and AI specialists will evaluate submissions.
4.2. Films are judged based on originality, storytelling, technical execution, and artistic vision.
4.3. The jury’s decision is final, and no correspondence regarding results will be entertained.
4.4. Selected films will be announced on the official festival website and social media platforms.

5. Screening & Festival Participation

5.1. Selected films will be screened in Dubai during the festival dates.
5.2. Filmmakers will be required to submit a high-quality screening copy in the specified format.
5.3. The festival reserves the right to use short clips, trailers, and promotional material for marketing and press purposes.

6. Awards & Prizes

6.1. Golden Dunes Awards will be presented in multiple categories, including:
Best Feature Film
Best Short Film
Best Documentary
Best Animation
Best AI-Short Film
Best AI-Commercial
Best AI-Music Video
Best Experimental
Best Student Film
Best Arab Film
Best Director
Best Cinematography
Best Actor & Actress
Best Screenplay
Best Editing
Best Sound design
Best Score
6.2. Winners will receive
Custom Golden Dunes Trophies
Official Laurels & Certificates
Exclusive Screening Opportunity at the Prestigious Paramount Hotel Theater in Dubai
Press & Media Coverage

7. Rights & Permissions

7.1. By submitting, filmmakers grant GDFF the non-exclusive right to screen the film at the festival and use promotional materials for marketing.
7.2. Filmmakers retain full rights to their films.

8. Code of Conduct

8.1. GDFF is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment.
8.2. Any form of harassment, discrimination, or unethical behavior will result in disqualification.
8.3. All festival participants must adhere to the rules and Dubai’s local regulations.