The United Arab Emirates has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative that merges technology, creativity, and culture. At the upcoming 1 Billion Followers Summit, scheduled from January 9–11, 2026 in Dubai, the UAE Government Media Office announced the launch of the world's largest AI Film Award, valued at $1 million. Created in partnership with Google Gemini, the UAE AI Film Award positions the country at the forefront of the rapidly evolving intersection of artificial intelligence and the global creative economy.
A New Era of Film and Content Creation
The AI Film Award is designed to inspire global content creators to harness the potential of AI to produce impactful short films. In an era where visual content drives global communication, the UAE is highlighting the power of AI to democratize filmmaking — making high-quality production possible beyond the traditional studio environment.
The competition focuses on short films of 7–10 minutes, requiring entries to be at least 70% AI-generated using tools such as Google's Imagen, Veo, and Flow, along with compatible third-party platforms. The emphasis is not just on visuals but on storytelling quality, creativity, and execution, with submissions expected to meet professional standards in audio, dialogue synchronisation, sound design, and continuity.
Creators can choose between two central themes:
1. "Rewrite Tomorrow" — exploring the possibilities of the future. 2. "The Secret Life of…" — uncovering hidden stories within everyday objects or ideas.
The 1 Billion Followers Summit
The UAE AI Film Award will be staged within the wider 1 Billion Followers Summit, one of the UAE's most influential global platforms for digital creators. The event is expected to draw more than 30,000 visitors from 140 nations, including 15,000 creators with a combined following of over 3 billion people. More than 400 speakers will take part, representing leading voices across industries, platforms, and creative sectors.
The Summit's programme will also include the Creator's Market, showcasing over 100 startups, and Creators Ventures, a fund allocating AED 50 million ($13.6 million) to help digital creators evolve into entrepreneurs.
UAE's Strategic Vision in AI
Announcing the award, Saeed Al Eter, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Projects and Chairman of the UAE Government Media Office, emphasised the UAE's leadership in embracing AI and fostering innovation:
> "The UAE reinforces its global leadership today with the launch of this award, demonstrating its commitment to establishing itself as a world-leading hub for innovation and technology. Creativity is no longer confined to large studios and massive budgets — AI allows anyone with a mobile device and imagination to tell stories that can inspire billions around the globe."
The UAE was the first country in the world to appoint a Minister of Artificial Intelligence and is now ranked third globally in attracting specialised AI talent. AI has already been introduced into the country's education system, taught from kindergarten through Grade 12 — reflecting the country's ambition to prepare future generations for an AI-powered economy.
Google Gemini's Role
The award is powered by Google Gemini, the tech giant's most advanced AI model, capable of handling multimodal tasks across text, image, and video. Anthony Nakache, Google's Managing Director for MENA, said:
> "At Google, we believe AI should amplify creativity and support creators. Through Gemini, we aim to give every storyteller the tools to bring their ideas to life, whether they have a studio budget or just a laptop. With models like Veo for video and Imagen for image generation, we're excited to see how creators use these technologies to push the boundaries of storytelling."
Global Participation and Selection Process
Submissions are open until November 20, 2025, through the official summit website. A panel of international judges will evaluate entries based on storytelling impact, creativity, AI integration, execution quality, and thematic relevance.
- November 21 – December 4, 2025: Review of ten shortlisted films. - December 10–15, 2025: Public voting phase for shortlisted films. - January 3, 2026: Announcement of the top five finalists. - January 10, 2026: Screening of finalist films during the Summit. - January 11, 2026: Grand prize winner of $1 million announced on stage.
Participation is open to all global creators with active social media presence, ensuring the award taps into the world's most diverse and vibrant talent pool.
Cementing Dubai as a Creative Capital
By linking AI technology with storytelling, the UAE is not only supporting creators but also shaping the future of global entertainment, film, and digital media. This initiative further cements Dubai's role as a hub for innovation, creativity, and future-focused industries, bridging technology and culture in unprecedented ways.
