Beirut DC was founded in Beirut, Lebanon in 1999 by a group of cinema professionals and art advocates. The organization began its projects towards the end of 1999. The aim of Beirut DC was to provide help and support to Arab independent filmmakers, in facing up and overcoming the constraints facing independently-minded Arab cinema.

In due time, Beirut DC became more capable and efficient in its efforts to adjust to the difficulties and challenges facing Arab independent movie-makers. The organization was able to learn and profit from its prolonged experience, and to gain the knowledge necessary to define and pursue its ongoing projects.

In a region where individuality is generally restricted, Beirut DC encourages its partners and collaborators to produce films that are relevant to their society, that seek to question pre-established forms and beliefs, and aim to induce change and new, personal approaches.


Beirut DC's objectives are:

. Producing and co-producing non-commercial Lebanese and Arab feature films and videos.

. Promoting Arab cinema, by way of the organization of the Ayam Beirut Al Cinema'iya film festival in Lebanon, and the worldwide touring of an Arab film selection entitled The Arab Film Week.

. Launching training workshops for amateurs and semi-professionals, with the aim of furthering knowledge and actual practice of all cinema-related professions.

. Creating a regional and international network of filmmakers, producers, distributors, film festival directors, film and video professionals, etc...

. Establishing a documentation center providing books, videos and information on all subjects related to art and cinema, that is easily accessible to all.

. Encouraging cultural and educational efforts and actions.


Our Partners

Since its establishment, Beirut DC has relied on funds from:

* Ford Foundation
* European commission
* Mission culturelle française
* Heinrich Böll Foundation
* Fondation Nord-Sud
* Arab Education Forum
* Europa Cinemas