The Saudi Film Festival Returns

The Saudi Film Festival is back for its 11th edition, running from April 17 to 23 at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). This year’s theme, “Cinema of Identity,” emphasizes the role of cinema in reflecting and shaping personal, cultural, and national identities.

Showcasing Diverse Talent

Organized by the Cinema Association in partnership with Ithra and supported by the Film Commission, the festival will feature an impressive lineup of 68 films from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf region—including Iraq and Yemen—and beyond. This includes seven feature films from Saudi and Gulf filmmakers, 22 short fiction films, and seven documentaries, along with 12 parallel screenings of Saudi productions.

Competing Narrative Features

Among the narrative features vying for recognition this year are Hobal, My Driver and I, Thuqoub, Fakher Al-Suwaidi, Anaashed Adam, Es-aaf, Behind the Mountains, and Adjourned. The festival will also pay tribute to esteemed Saudi actor Ibrahim Al-Hasawi, celebrating his extensive career in theater, television, and cinema, with notable performances in Tash Ma Tash, Bayni Wa Baynak, Zero Distance, and Hajjan.

Engaging Discussions and Learning Opportunities

Beyond film screenings, the festival will host four panel discussions, four advanced masterclasses, and three book signings for the Saudi Cinema Encyclopedia. Filmmakers will also benefit from one-on-one “Meet the Expert” sessions and private screenings at Ithra’s plaza and library, providing invaluable mentorship and feedback opportunities.

Production Market for Filmmakers

The festival’s production market will feature 22 booths from regional production entities, offering filmmakers a platform to pitch, develop, and promote their projects while forging essential industry connections.

Celebrating Japanese Cinema

This year also marks a celebration of Japanese cinema, commemorating 70 years of Saudi-Japan diplomatic relations. Eight Japanese films will be screened, accompanied by expert-led discussions. Highlights from this selection include River Returns, Blue and White, Toma #2, Kaburagi, Extremely Short, and The New World—a rich showcase of storytelling that intertwines tradition, memory, and modern transformation.