1 BILLION FOLLOWERS SUMMIT — AI FILM AWARD (Dubai)
The world's largest AI film prize — $1 million — launched in collaboration with Google's Gemini at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai. The inaugural award in 2025 was won by Tunisian filmmaker Zoubeir Jlassi for his short film Lily, created entirely with Google Gemini tools. The award was presented by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. This prize proves that African and Arab creators can compete at the absolute highest level in AI filmmaking — and win.
Deadline
Annual. Next edition expected late 2026. Monitor 1billionfollowers.ae.
Cost
Check submission terms for current edition
Format
AI-generated or AI-assisted short films.
Eligibility
Global. Films should demonstrate significant use of AI tools in the creative process.
What You Get
Grand prize: $1,000,000. Global media exposure. Screening at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai. Association with Google Gemini.
What to Submit
AI-generated or AI-assisted short film as specified in the call.
Insider Tips
A Tunisian filmmaker won the inaugural $1M prize. This is proof of concept that African creators can win the biggest AI film prizes in the world. The Google Gemini partnership means the tools are accessible — Gemini is free to use. Start experimenting now and submit to the next edition.
Monitor 1billionfollowers.ae for the next edition announcement (expected late 2026).
Verify dates and eligibility on the official website before applying.
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