The European Film Festival Abu Dhabi kicked off with a grand opening ceremony on Sunday 12 May, drawing over 400 attendees with the promise of a unique cinematic experience and cultural exchange.

Held at the historic amphitheatre of the Cultural Foundation in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the event saw a diverse gathering of ambassadors from European Union member states and other countries in the UAE, diplomatic representatives, film enthusiasts, and residents of Abu Dhabi.

Reflecting on the successful start of the festival, Her Excellency Lucie Berger, Ambassador of the European Union to the United Arab Emirates, said: "I am thrilled to see so many people share our passion for films. Films have a remarkable ability not only to entertain but also to enlighten, challenge, and inspire, transcending language and cultural barriers, and bringing people closer through the universal language of cinema. With this festival, our aim is to introduce the people of the UAE to the cultural diversity of Europe and foster mutual understanding and cultural exchange."

Ambassador Berger extended her gratitude to His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture and Youth, and Her Excellency Noura Al Kaabi, UAE Minister of State, for their endorsement of this initiative. “Without their initial support, this festival would not have been possible,” she noted. She also thanked the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi and the Cultural Foundation for their invaluable support.

The festival's inaugural screening featured the captivating French film "Divertimento," which follows the aspirations of a young girl dreaming of becoming an orchestra conductor and decides with her twin sister to create their own orchestra. “Divertimento” is inspired by the life of Zahia Ziouani, one of the few worldwide renowned female conductors.

Throughout the festival, which runs until Thursday 16 May, audiences can enjoy a curated selection of 10 films from the Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Slovenia, and Sweden, offering a rich tapestry of European cinematic experiences and storytelling.

Tickets to the European Film Festival Abu Dhabi are available free of charge, inviting film and cultural enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the magic of European cinema and embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration.

For more information and to reserve your seats, visit www.euff.ae.