Riyadh, November 13, 2024 – The Film Commission of Saudi Arabia is participating in the 45th edition of the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF), which is being hosted in the Egyptian capital from November 13 to 22. As one of the longest-running and most prestigious film festivals in the Arab World and the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the festival is renowned for fostering collaboration, creativity, and innovation within the global cinematic community. Since its inception in 1976, CIFF has served as a critical platform for filmmakers, industry experts, investors, production companies, artists, critics, journalists, and cinema enthusiasts to exchange ideas, explore new opportunities, and celebrate the art of film.
The Saudi Film Commission’s delegation, which includes a select group of prominent Saudi filmmakers, is playing an active role in the event. The delegation is set to participate in two key panel discussions that will address significant topics in the world of film and cinema. The first panel will focus on film commissions and the abundant opportunities for collaboration and production within the MENA region and beyond. This discussion aims to highlight the growing role of film commissions in facilitating and supporting film production, creating pathways for cross-border cooperation, and strengthening the regional film industry.
The second panel will shine a spotlight on Saudi cinema, exploring the industry’s rapid advancements and the exciting prospects aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. It will delve into the cultural and economic potential of Saudi cinema, showcasing how the Kingdom’s film industry is evolving and the opportunities it presents for local talent, global partnerships, and investment. Additionally, the discussion will address the challenges that Saudi cinema faces, including the need for infrastructure, training, and international recognition, and how these barriers can be overcome to realize the full potential of the sector.
Through its participation in the Cairo International Film Festival, the Saudi Film Commission aims to strengthen its presence within the global film industry, enhance collaboration with regional and international partners, and further the Kingdom’s goal of positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading hub for film production and cultural exchange in the MENA region. The discussions at CIFF will provide valuable insights into the future of Saudi cinema and its critical role in the Kingdom’s broader cultural, economic, and social development under Vision 2030.