Dubai Launches New Program to Cultivate Next Generation of Screenwriters and Producers with NFTS and Prime Video
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Dubai’s film and television industry is poised for growth with the launch of a new talent development program, designed to accelerate the skills of emerging writers and producers in the Emirate.
The Dubai Film and Electronic Games Office, in collaboration with the British National Film and Television School (NFTS) and Prime Video, has unveiled an intensive program aimed at fostering a new wave of creative talent. This initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to solidifying its position as a leading regional hub for media and creative production.
Strengthening Dubai’s Creative Ecosystem
The program, running from January 26 to 30, will target Dubai-based writers and producers, focusing on the development of original television projects. Participants will receive guidance through all stages of the creative process, from initial idea formulation to crafting compelling presentations.
According to a statement from the Dubai Film and Electronic Games Office, the program combines specialized creative training with practical insights into current market demands. It will also provide opportunities for hands-on project development, allowing participants to refine their ideas and understand the commercial realities of the television industry.
Industry Experts to Lead Intensive Training
The program’s curriculum will be overseen by Matt DeLarge, a producer, screenwriter, and senior academic supervisor at NFTS, alongside Adrian Banerd, a senior executive from Big Light Productions. Participants will benefit from direct instruction from a cohort of international creators and specialists from Amazon MGM Studios.
Training sessions, workshops, and project presentations will cover a range of critical topics, including idea and character development, narrative construction, audience engagement strategies, marketing, and international co-production models.
A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Growth
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Dubai Film and Electronic Games Office, affiliated with the Dubai Media Council, to strengthen the film and television industry within the Emirate. The office aims to develop creative competencies, expand local production capabilities, and attract international partnerships.
“Developing creative talent is an essential foundation for building a sustainable film and television industry that is able to compete globally,” stated Hisham Al Olama, Executive Director of the Dubai Film and Electronic Games Office. “Through cooperation with leading international institutions such as the British National Film and Television School and Prime Video, we seek to empower a new generation of storymakers and producers who are able to provide distinctive content that reflects Dubai’s culture and values, and reaches a global audience.”
John Wardle, Director of the British National Film and Television School, echoed this sentiment, noting a growing demand for ambitious content with global appeal in the UAE. “This pioneering program is an opportunity to take our advanced training approach directly to emerging talent in the region,” he said.
Nicole Clemens, Vice President and Head of International Content at Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, emphasized the importance of collaboration. “At Prime Video, we believe that outstanding storytelling thrives when talent has the right support, care and resources,” Clemens said. “We also believe in the importance of cooperation between the government and private sectors and academic institutions to build a strong local creative economy.”
Application Details and Requirements
The Dubai Film and Electronic Games Office is now accepting applications from Dubai-based professionals with prior experience in the film and television industry. The deadline for submissions is 5:00 PM (Dubai time) on Monday, January 12th. Applications should be sent to info@dfgc.ae in PDF format.
The program will select eight teams, each comprised of two individuals. At least one team member must have accreditation or prior experience with a broadcaster and serve as the main producer. The second member can be a writer or a creative producer.
Applicants are required to submit the following:
- A one-page statement outlining the vision for their proposed television work, including a brief description, format, genre, summary, comparable works, and a rationale for the project’s potential.
- A detailed story summary, not exceeding two pages.
- CVs or introductory summaries for each applicant.
Aisha Bin Kali, Head of Talent Development at the Dubai Film and Electronic Games Office, confirmed that the program will prioritize both the creative process and the practical aspects of project development and presentation. The program will culminate in a final project presentation before a panel of industry experts from Amazon MGM Studios, the NFTS, and UAE production partners, followed by a discussion on the future of series production in the Middle East and North Africa region and a networking event.