Sharjah24: "The Sharjah Film Platform aims to support independent cinema and highlight the creativity and experiences of filmmakers," said Omar Al Obaidly, head of visitors' services at the Sharjah Art Foundation, in a statement to Sharjah 24. Forty films, including both narrative and documentary features, will compete in the platform competition at the festival. All of the films are making their premieres in the UAE, and they were all produced within the last two years.

In addition to the film programming, Al Obaidly mentioned that there would be a number of panel talks covering subjects including post-colonialism, African filmmaking, and the Palestinian Nakba.

City Cinema Sharjah, Vox Cinemas in Al Zahia City Centre, and the Sharjah Institute for the Performing Arts will host these talks over the course of ten evenings.