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Red Sea International Film Festival Opens Submissions for Fifth Edition

The Red Sea International Film Festival (Red Sea IFF) is excited to announce that submissions are now open for its fifth edition, scheduled to take place from December 4 to 13, 2025, in the historic and vibrant district of Al Balad, Jeddah.

Invitation to Filmmakers

We invite filmmakers, producers, and distributors from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world, Africa, and Asia to submit their projects for consideration. The final deadline for submissions is August 17, 2025. Don’t miss out on the early bird window, which allows you to apply for free until July 7, 2025!

Key Sections for Submission

Submissions are currently being accepted in several important categories, including the Red Sea: Competition, Red Sea: Shorts Competition, and the New Saudi/New Cinema section, which is dedicated to fostering the next generation of Saudi filmmaking talent.

Celebrating Cultural Exchange

As we celebrate our fifth anniversary, the Red Sea IFF continues to grow its influence and cultural significance. To date, we have screened over 520 films from 85 countries and hosted more than 160 global premieres. With over 130 Saudi films showcased since our inception, we remain dedicated to highlighting local narratives while promoting international cinematic dialogue.

Yusr Awards and Recognition

The selected films will compete for the prestigious Yusr Awards, including the highly sought-after Golden Yusr for Best Feature Film, which comes with a grand prize of $100,000. Additional awards will be presented for Best Director, the Jury Prize, and the Golden Yusr for Best Short Film.

A Message from Our Managing Director

Shivani Pandya Malhotra, Managing Director of the Red Sea Film Foundation, expressed, “This year, we are proud to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Red Sea International Film Festival. Our journey has solidified the Festival as a unique force in the cinematic landscape, both locally and globally. With over 520 films from 85 countries showcased, the Festival serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange and compelling storytelling. We warmly invite filmmakers from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world, Africa, and Asia to share their work and contribute to this enriching cinematic dialogue.”

Submission Fees

Remember, during the early bird submission period, you can submit your projects at no cost. After July 7, the standard fees will apply: 100 SAR (VAT inclusive) for shorts and 200 SAR (VAT inclusive) for feature films.