Actor-director Epy Quizon captures the top honours at the 12th Emirates Film Festival in Dubai on July 26, 2026. EFF
Filipino actor and filmmaker Epy Quizon emerged as the biggest winner at the 12th Emirates Film Festival, taking home the Best Director award while his film Bukal received the festival’s highest honour as Best Film.
The awards ceremony, held on Sunday (July 26) at the New Covent Garden Theatre in Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates, concluded this year’s festival before a full house of filmmakers, actors, diplomats, cultural leaders and industry professionals from the UAE and abroad.
Quizon first received the Best Director trophy before returning to the stage as Bukal was announced as Best Film, capping the night’s biggest achievement.
Other major winners included Francis Gacer, who won Best Screenplay for Tilamsik sa Dakilang Apoy; John Moreland Lynn, named Best Actor for Quiet on Set; and Ruwani Tebuwanage, who received Best Actress for Police Seat.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of AI at Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, and Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, who presented Quizon with the Best Director award.
Ronald Awa, Founder and CEO of the Emirates Film Festival, said the event continues to strengthen its reputation as an international platform for filmmakers. “The festival continues to grow because filmmakers trust us with their work and audiences remain open to stories that bring different cultures and perspectives together,” Awa said.
The festival also celebrated Emirati cinema, with Noor Al Qasimi winning Best Emirati Film for The First.
Awards were also presented across documentary, animation, cinematography, editing, production design, sound, acting and emerging filmmaker categories, recognising films that explored social issues, psychological wellbeing and community engagement.
A total of 44 filmmakers from the festival’s official 2026 selection received recognition during the ceremony.
Amal Bint Mubarak, Chief Operating Officer of the Emirates Film Festival, credited the success of the event to the combined efforts of filmmakers, volunteers, partners and organisers. “The evening was the result of months of preparation and the commitment of our filmmakers, jury, volunteers, partners and production team,” she said.
Festival Director Lezlie Pableo said the impact of a film festival should continue long after the awards ceremony ends. “Our responsibility is to create visibility, credibility and connections that allow strong work to travel further. This edition proved that a story can remain deeply rooted in its own culture and still speak to an international audience,” Pableo said.
The five principal trophies were crafted in Dubai by Crystal Arc and inspired by the UAE’s heritage and landscape, while winners also received prizes supported by Nikon and Grand Stores. Organisers announced that the 13th Emirates Film Festival will return next year, with submissions opening on September 1. CAM/Expat Media
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