From Concept to Script Filmmaking Workshop 2026 in Sharjah

About From Concept to Script

Every great short film starts with an idea, but turning that spark into a script that works on screen is a craft in itself. From Concept to Script is a free, two-day workshop from Sharjah Art Foundation, held at The Flying Saucer in Sharjah as part of Sharjah Film Platform 9. It is led by Emirati filmmaker Abdulrahman Al Madani, whose short films include Laymoon and Oug, and who founded the production company Meylas Aflam.

Learning from a working filmmaker is one of the best ways to understand storytelling, and this is a rare chance to do so for free in a celebrated architectural landmark.

What to expect

The course focuses on short-film storytelling. According to Sharjah Art Foundation, it covers:

• Developing raw ideas into clear narratives
• Creating characters audiences can relate to
• Approaching sensitive subjects with care
• Balancing social themes with a compelling plot

The workshop runs across two mornings, on Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November, from 10:00am to 12:00pm each day. Materials are provided. It is taught in English.

Who it is for

The workshop is open to adults aged 18 and over. It will suit aspiring filmmakers, screenwriters, students of film and media, writers who are curious about moving from the page to the screen, and creatives who want to understand how short films are built. No specific experience is mentioned as a requirement, so it should be approachable if you are just starting out.

Because it is part of Sharjah Film Platform 9, it is also a good way to connect with the wider film community gathering in Sharjah during the festival period.

How to attend

The workshop is free, but registration is required through Sharjah Art Foundation’s online form, linked on this listing. As places on free workshops are usually limited, we would suggest registering as early as possible. Plan to attend both sessions, as the course is designed to run across the two days.

Good to know

• Ages 18 and over.
• Taught in English.
• Free, with materials provided.
• Two sessions: 31 October and 1 November, 10:00am to 12:00pm.
• The Flying Saucer is a restored modernist building in the Dasman area of Sharjah. As a tip, allow time to look around, as the building itself is worth seeing.
• As a general tip, bring a notebook and an idea or two for a short film. Having something concrete to develop makes workshops like this far more rewarding.