The European Film Festival Abu Dhabi opened to a full house at the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi, attracting more than 400 attendees for a night of cinema and cultural exchange. Ambassadors from European Union member states, diplomatic representatives, film aficionados, and residents of Abu Dhabi came together for the event.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the festival, Her Excellency Lucie Berger, Ambassador of the European Union to the United Arab Emirates, highlighted the power of films to entertain, enlighten, and inspire. She emphasized the role of cinema in bridging language and cultural gaps, bringing people closer together. The festival aims to introduce the rich cultural diversity of Europe to the UAE and promote mutual understanding through cinematic storytelling.
Ambassador Berger thanked the UAE Minister of Culture and Youth, Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, and the UAE Minister of State, Noura Al Kaabi, for their support. She also recognized the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi and the Cultural Foundation for their contributions to the festival.
The festival’s first screening featured the captivating French film “Divertimento,” which follows the journey of a young girl aspiring to become an orchestra conductor. Inspired by the life of renowned female conductor Zahia Ziouani, the film set the stage for a week of cinematic exploration.
Audiences can look forward to a curated selection of 10 films from various European countries, offering a diverse range of cinematic experiences and storytelling. The festival runs until Thursday, and tickets are available free of charge for film and culture enthusiasts.
To reserve seats and learn more about the European Film Festival Abu Dhabi, visit www.euff.ae.
