In 2004 Dubai held the launching of its first International Film Festival. This was a major event for the city that was already rich in culture and entertainment. The festival was created for the primary reason of bridging cultures and bringing minds together. The group of organizers who developed the festival had a strong belief in the power of film to bring a greater understanding of differing social views and to create a dialogue between peoples and nations. In addition, the festival was aimed toward nurturing the development of filmmakers and to provide support at an international level. As is common to most cultural aspects of Dubai, tourists who stay in Dubai UAE luxury hotels are drawn to the festival in increasing numbers.
The festival has grown a great deal since its inception in 2004 and continues to do so each year. In 2004, 76 films were shown and this has steadily increased so that by 2008 it showed 181. The growth trend is also seen in the number of countries that are represented in the festival. There were 27 participating countries in 2004 and by 2008 it showed 181. The growth trend is also seen in the number of countries that are represented in the festival. There were 27 participating countries in 2004 and by 2008 this number had grown to 66. It takes place in December of every year and this year it is expected to have the greatest number of participants and showings yet.
By 2008, the effects of the festival on Dubai were already beginning to show. It is now recognized as an international entity and has received respect from around the world. Last year there were approximately 1000 industry professionals in attendance and over 47,000 audience members. This greatly contributes to the festival’s prestige and the city’s economy. The professionals that attended included some of the greatest international film stars as well as professionals from the local scene. Western film stars such as Ben Affleck, Nicolas Cage, Goldie Hawn and Salma Hayek were there among numerous others. One of the 2008 festival Honorees was Terry Gilliam, of Monty Python fame.