SANAD fund announces first cycle of grants in support of Arab filmmakers

ABU DHABI- Abu Dhabi Film Festival’s fund, SANAD, today(May 15th) announced the first cycle of grants for 2014 to support the development and post-production of several films by film-makers from across the Arab world. 

“SANAD seeks out bold, remarkable projects with the aim of encouraging intercultural dialogue and artistic innovation, while building strong networks within the region,” said Ali Al Jabri, Director of Abu Dhabi Film Festival, adding, “SANAD also offers ongoing support and publicity for selected projects to connect filmmakers to potential partners, funding opportunities and audiences.” Al Jabri added: “SANAD has enabled the production of original films that might not have made it past the concept stage without support, and supported filmmakers who have gone on to build successful careers in the industry. The fund has fueled creative talent and supplemented twofour54’s work in developing a major media hub in Abu Dhabi and the region.” Abu Dhabi Film Festival (ADFF), which is powered by twofour54, the commercial arm of the Media Zone Authority – Abu Dhabi, will be celebrating SANAD’s fifth anniversary this October. ADFF has funded over 100 film projects as part of its mission to drive the emergence of a filmmaking hub in the UAE and the Arab World. 

SANAD provides financial advice and technical guidance and encourages the successful applicant’s participation in festivals around the world. The successful projects this year were from Palestine, Iraq, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, and Lebanon.

SANAD supported films have continually been featured at several international film festivals and have received international recognition by winning numerous awards and accolades. Some of these films have been in competition at Cannes such as, After the Battle’ which was directed by Yousry Nasrallah, My Sweet Pepper Land’ by Hiner Saleem, and On the Edge’ by Leila Kilani. 

Many films supported by SANAD have been recognised by leading international film festivals and have won prestigious awards globally. This is a testament to SANAD’s commitment in supporting Arab projects with grants up to US$20,000 for development and up to $60,000 for post-production.-WAM