Scheduled from November 26 - 28, 2025, the festival will unfold across Dubai Knowledge Park and the MAHE Dubai Campus in Dubai International Academic City.

Widely recognized as the largest student-led short film event in Dubai, WOIS offers an inclusive and creative space that uplifts emerging voices in storytelling - particularly student and independent filmmakers from across the UAE and GCC. Over the three-day celebration, attendees can expect curated screenings, panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities with professionals from the film and media industry.

The competition features four award categories: Best Short Film - UAE, Best Short Film - UAE University, Best Short Film - UAE School, and Best Short Film - GCC Shorts. Winners will receive the prestigious Golden Oryx Award, with past editions offering filmmaking kits sponsored by Nikon MEA.

Prof. Elsa Thomas, Chairperson of MILA and Festival Chairperson, noted, “The White Oryx International Short Film Festival is not just a showcase of student talent. It’s a movement that nurtures fearless creativity, original storytelling, and bold narratives that matter. We are proud to foster a generation of filmmakers who are not only technically skilled but also socially conscious and culturally rooted.”

WOIS 2025 has already garnered significant media attention, with the announcement featured across top platforms including Biz Today, AdGully ME, Gulf Tech News, MENews247, Web Release, Gulf Time, and EGY Economy, reinforcing the festival’s regional significance.

Having received over 5,000 submissions globally in previous editions, WOIS continues to be a platform that fuels the creative economy, empowers youth narratives, and drives the future of regional filmmaking.