Dubai’s creative scene is undergoing a quiet revolution and at its heart is Ilinca Chiriac, a creative entrepreneur and the visionary behind initiatives that are redefining how independent artists and filmmakers in the UAE connect, collaborate, and grow.
With an instinct for community-building and a passion for authentic expression, Ilinca has been instrumental in shaping a space where creative talent can flourish beyond commercial boundaries. Her work with Film Society DXB and Alt.Records is driving a new era for the UAE’s independent arts scene one grounded in originality, collaboration, and purpose.
Building Film Society DXB: A Home for Independent Filmmakers
One of Ilinca’s most impactful initiatives is Film Society DXB, a community platform for independent filmmakers, producers, and creatives across the UAE. Since its launch in 2023, it has quickly evolved into a hub for collaboration, screening, and storytelling — a space where creative professionals can connect and share ideas freely.
Through events, competitions, and networking sessions, Film Society DXB has cultivated an ecosystem where filmmakers can find both creative and professional support. What began as a small circle of like-minded storytellers has grown into a thriving collective shaping the next generation of UAE cinema.
“It feels like the start of something bigger,” Ilinca says. “Film Society DXB is not just about showcasing films — it’s about building a movement for creative freedom and collaboration.”
Records and Alternative: Powering the Next Wave of Original Music
Beyond film, Ilinca is driving the independent music scene through Alt.Records, a creative label and initiative built to power the next wave of original music in Dubai and the UAE.
Alt.Records is more than a label — it’s a creative platform that offers artists the tools, connections, and mentorship they need to reach their full potential. Through production support, strategic collaborations, and live showcases, the initiative helps musicians and artists build meaningful, sustainable careers.
Under Alt.Records, Ilinca launched Alterna.tiv, a multidisciplinary event series that blends music, art, and performance. The series brings together independent musicians, vinyl DJs, and visual artists, curating experiences that break away from Dubai’s mainstream nightlife.
The result is a growing cultural movement — one that gives visibility to local talent and encourages experimentation across genres and mediums.
Supporting Emerging Artists
Ilinca’s work also extends into artist management and representation, with a focus on nurturing creative talent from the region. One of the artists she represents, Prince VA, exemplifies the originality and authenticity at the core of Dubai’s new creative movement. His work reflects the kind of vision Alt.Records aims to amplify — boundary-pushing, emotionally honest, and deeply connected to community.
Through mentorship and development support, Ilinca helps artists like Prince VA refine their craft and navigate the evolving landscape of independent art and music.
Fostering a Sustainable Creative Ecosystem
For Ilinca, creativity and sustainability go hand in hand. Her broader mission is to build a self-sustaining creative ecosystem in Dubai — one that balances artistic integrity with economic opportunity.
By connecting creativity with business structure, she’s helping shape a future where independent filmmakers, musicians, and artists can thrive professionally while staying true to their vision. “My goal has always been to create spaces where originality is celebrated and artists feel empowered to grow — both creatively and sustainably,” she says.
An Unconventional Journey
Ilinca’s path to this point wasn’t linear. Originally studying criminology and social policy, she eventually realized that her passion lay in storytelling and creative expression. Leaving academia behind, she chose to carve her own path — one built on curiosity, adaptability, and vision.
That decision, though unconventional, became the foundation of her career. It taught her the importance of trusting instinct, taking risks, and building something authentic from the ground up — lessons she now shares with other creatives finding their way.
A Vision for Dubai’s Creative Future
Through Film Society DXB and Alt.Records, Ilinca Chiriac is building more than projects — she’s shaping a movement for creative independence in the UAE.
Her initiatives prove that Dubai’s future isn’t only defined by architecture and innovation, but also by art, collaboration, and cultural depth. By giving a platform to independent voices, Ilinca and her team are helping turn Dubai into a regional hub for original film and music — one that inspires the next generation to create boldly and authentically.
Do follow her on Instagram
Read Next – UAE: Cisco Launches Unified Software Stack for Quantum Networking
