The festival will be taking place in Abu Dhabi for the first time.

Movie buffs, this one’s for you. Abu Dhabi is gearing up to host its first-ever Schlingel Film Festival, promising three nights of German cinema.

Taking place from 6 to 8 June at The Arts Centre at NYU Abu Dhabi, the Schlingel Film Festival has screenings for all ages. The festival was founded in 1996, and each year, it features a set of films carefully selected by professionals. Making its debut in the UAE, thanks to the Goethe-Institut Gulf Region, you can enjoy a variety of German films and shorts.

A Summer of Surprises

A Summer of Surprise follows the journey of a young boy who, after being wrongly accused of a crime, decides to take matters into his own hands. His journey turns into an unexpected adventure full of surprises, friendship, and self-discovery. The film is suitable for children over 10 and will be screened on 6 June at 12pm, on 7 June at 11.30am and on 8 June at 5pm. 


Into the Beat

Into the Beat revolves around a talented ballerina who discovers the world of street dance, challenging her to choose between the structured life she knows and the freedom of self-expression through dance. This film portrays the struggle between following tradition and pursuing one’s passion. It’s suitable for children over and will be shown on 6 June at 5.30pm. 


Weekend Rebels

Weekend Rebels follows a father and his autistic son as they embark on a journey across Germany to find the perfect soccer club for the son to support. The film captures the essence of family, understanding, and the unique bonds that sports can create. Suitable for ages nine to 15, this movie will screen on 6 June at 9.30am, on 7 June at 5.30pm and on 8 June at 2pm.


Short Film Program Without Language

The Short Film Program Without Language features 11 captivating short films that allow little ones to connect with the stories without the need for spoken words. Each short film offers a unique perspective and creative approach — through animation or live-action — making it an enlightening watch. These short films are suitable for kids four and above and will be screened on 7 June at 9.30am and on 8 June at 11am.

GO: Visit https://www.nyuad-artscenter.org for more information.