The festival, which has spent two decades establishing its reputation in the competitive short film arena, will hold its first Middle Eastern edition from Dec. 12–14, offering regional filmmakers a direct pathway to Academy Awards consideration.
Delano Dubai will host the exclusive opening night red-carpet reception for HollyShorts Dubai 2025, cementing its status as a key partner in uniting emerging filmmaking talent with the city’s signature luxury hospitality. The event will take place on Friday, December 12, starting at 6:30 PM.
The celebration will be held at Blue Door, the hotel’s restaurant and garden, offering a setting with views of Bluewaters and the Arabian Gulf. Filmmakers, creatives, sponsors and VIP guests are expected to gather for an evening of curated cocktails, networking and cinematic celebration.
Jessica Badawi, Head of Partnerships for the HollyShorts Film Festival, said: “We are incredibly proud to partner with the Delano Dubai for this special evening. Our attendees are the lifeblood of this festival, and we wanted a venue that reflects our appreciation for their talent and contributions. The Delano provides the perfect, elegant backdrop for a night dedicated entirely to saying ‘thank you’ in style. It promises to be a truly unforgettable night for everyone.”
Priya Chomel, Senior Director of Marketing and Partnerships at Delano Dubai, added: “We are delighted to host the Opening Night red-carpet celebration with HollyShorts Dubai, bringing together the vibrant energy of the film festival with the Delano’s signature bold design and luxury hospitality. Both brands thrive on creating exclusive, unforgettable experiences. This partnership underscores our commitment to being a social and cultural hub where guests can connect, celebrate cinematic excellence, and feel they’ve stepped into an elevated atmosphere.”
Designed as a formal gesture of gratitude to filmmakers, industry professionals and guests, the event will blend the glamour of an international film festival with the refined hospitality that defines Delano Dubai.
