Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 16 December 2022:  Abu Dhabi Festival, the flagship of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), supported the production of the latest film by Emirati writer and filmmaker Nasser Al Dhaheri documenting the life of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, “Millstone: Al Ain ‘The Eye’ is the first to see dreams” which premiered yesterday, 15 December, at Vox Cinemas Al Maryah Island. 

H.E. Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF, Founder and Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival, said: “Since the establishment of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) almost three decades ago, we have worked to empower the Emirati film industry, supporting its pioneers, and enhancing the UAE’s presence on the international creative scene.

“Abu Dhabi Festival is pleased to collaborate with the award-winning author, journalist, photographer and filmmaker, Nasser Al Dhaheri, to support the production of Millstone: Al Ain “The Eye” is the first to see dreams. This commitment to documenting the rapid development of our nation’s progress remains an essential part of our spirit. With the world premiere of Nasser’s exceptional film, we invite you to experience the legendary life of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the visionary leader who earned the love of his people and respect of the world.  His inspiring dream turned a barren desert land into a green oasis and established the foundations to transform his country, securing his rightful place in history as one of the greatest leaders the region, and the world has ever known.”

The film documents the life of Founding Father of the UAE,  Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, since he took over the affairs of the city of Al Ain in 1946. The documentary  explores how the visionary leader managed to build and develop the city of Al Ain, including organising its affairs, providing free water to residents, attracting experienced professionals from abroad, and more. 

“The film took two years to write and accomplish archival research, during which we filmed with 40 people who accompanied Sheikh Zayed closely during his lifetime and ruling years and were familiar with his domestic and foreign affairs, particularly his humanitarian work. The film documents the life of Sheikh Zayed for future generations. It acknowledges the challenges that the founding fathers had faced, appreciating how Sheikh Zayed remarkably managed to miraculously build a state between the desert and sea. His tireless efforts made the United Arab Emirates we know today, which enjoys a leading global position, along with prosperity, stability, and esteemed international reputation,” said filmmaker Nasser Al Dhaheri.

‘Millstone’ features interviews with more than 50 people from different countries such as France, the Netherlands, Morocco, Ukraine, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Lithuania, and Tunisia. It was also translated into English, French, and Spanish to be released in movie theatres around the world as well as various international film festivals.

Produced by writer and filmmaker Nasser Al Dhaheri, and supported by ADMAF, The National Library and Archives,  and the Ministry of Culture and Youth, the documentary film is dedicated to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the spouse of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his companion throughout the inspiring journey to establish the UAE.

The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation has recently announced its programme for the twentieth edition of Abu Dhabi Festival in 2023, under the theme “The Will for Evolution”. Events include unique exclusive commissions, co-productions, along with local, regional, and world premieres and tours, as well as panel discussions and workshops.

Throughout the first three weeks of March, Abu Dhabi Festival will present its extensive headline programme, featuring a host of live performances and musical events. Meanwhile, local community events and further international performances will continue throughout the year.