The Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF) is enhancing its commitment to nurturing upcoming filmmakers through a new partnership with the UAE’s National Media Authority. This collaboration aims to create a sustainable pathway for emerging talent in the film industry, addressing various challenges including film screening procedures, training, and technical support.
Strategic Partnership Established
The memorandum of understanding was signed on Monday, coinciding with the inauguration of SIFF’s 13th edition. The National Media Authority and FANN – Media Discovery Platform, the Sharjah organization that operates the festival, formalized their partnership during this significant event. FANN’s name is derived from the Arabic word for “art,” underlining the cultural emphasis of the festival.
Addressing Industry Challenges
As SIFF expands its scope beyond traditional screenings and workshops, it seeks to tackle the practical obstacles young filmmakers encounter while trying to break into the industry. SIFF director Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi emphasized to Variety that the journey of filmmaking encompasses more than just learning the craft. “Our agreement with the National Media Authority reflects this commitment,” she stated, highlighting the initiative as a critical step towards uniting national efforts aimed at supporting the film industry and empowering emerging filmmakers to transform their ideas into creative outputs.
Enhancing Regulatory Framework
The new agreement further aims to bolster the infrastructure necessary for film production and screening. The National Media Authority will assist in simplifying the process of obtaining necessary permits for film screenings, ensuring coordination with embassies, consulates, cultural organizations, and government bodies when needed. In addition, training will be provided to festival teams on the authority’s electronic services, designed to streamline regulatory procedures.
Reforming the Media Landscape
This partnership is established during a transformative phase for the UAE’s media landscape. Created under a federal decree in December 2025, the National Media Authority consolidated several media functions previously under the UAE Media Council, National Media Office, and Emirates News Agency. Its mission includes overseeing media policy, legislation, licensing, and content standards.
Commitment to Youth and Content Development
“Supporting content created for children and youth is an important part of our strategy to develop a competitive and sustainable national media sector,” remarked National Media Authority secretary-general Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi on Monday.
Broader Impact on the Filmmaking Ecosystem
For FANN, this agreement signifies the inclusion of a federal institution within an ecosystem that extends beyond the festival itself. SIFF’s Industry Hub and pitching program are specifically designed to connect filmmakers with producers, sponsors, and funders, ultimately aiming to convert introductions into financing, production support, and long-term collaborations.
As part of the collaboration, representatives from the National Media Authority will also take part in festival juries and film evaluations, enhancing the synergy between the two organizations in their media and communications efforts.
The Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth runs until November 1, showcasing a selection of 71 films from 38 different countries, reflecting the diverse talents and stories of young filmmakers from around the globe.
