Jeddah, December 08, 2024 – In a landmark move, the Red Sea International Film Festival (RSIFF) has entered into a strategic partnership with "Saudi, Welcome to Arabia," the official destination brand of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), for its fourth edition. The partnership, which marks the debut of "Saudi, Welcome to Arabia" as a major sponsor of the festival, will further elevate Jeddah’s growing reputation as a premier global cultural and cinematic hub. The festival, running from December 5 to 14, 2024, is being held in the historic and vibrant Al Balad district of Jeddah, which serves as the new venue for the event.
The sponsorship will amplify the role of film as a powerful driver of tourism, recognizing its ability to showcase Saudi Arabia’s diverse cultural landscapes and compelling stories. "Saudi, Welcome to Arabia" aims to highlight the Kingdom’s natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and cultural richness through the art of filmmaking, celebrating storytellers who bring these elements to life on the global stage. By partnering with the Red Sea International Film Festival, the Saudi Tourism Authority underscores its commitment to supporting high-quality cultural events that align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, especially in promoting the Kingdom’s tourism offerings and its hospitality.
Shivani Pandya Malhotra, Managing Director of RSIFF, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We are delighted to partner with 'Saudi, Welcome to Arabia' for this year’s festival. Their support will prove invaluable in helping us bring international attention to the vibrant Saudi film scene and the unique cultural experiences our country has to offer." The sponsorship highlights the Kingdom’s rise as a major winter sun destination, buoyed by the success of its global campaign, "Where Winter Lights Up." This campaign is part of the second phase of the cinematic series, "This Land is Calling," which invites travelers to explore Saudi Arabia’s winter attractions, from Riyadh and Jeddah to AlUla and the Saudi Red Sea.
The fourth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival, themed "The New Home of Film," takes inspiration from its new location in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Balad, a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage and diverse history. Al Balad, with its stunning architecture and historical significance, provides the perfect backdrop for the festival, aligning seamlessly with the aspirations of both RSIFF and the "Saudi, Welcome to Arabia" brand. The festival’s venue reflects the Kingdom's dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural identity while embracing modernity and global connectivity.
Through this partnership, RSIFF and "Saudi, Welcome to Arabia" will work together to create a dynamic platform that not only highlights the best of Saudi cinema but also showcases the Kingdom as a vibrant and compelling destination for international tourists, reinforcing its position on the global stage as both a cultural and tourism powerhouse.