The Red Sea Souk Project Market: A Gateway for Filmmakers

The Red Sea Souk Project Market is now accepting submissions for its projects-in-development, production, and works-in-progress programs. This exciting event will take place during the fifth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival, scheduled for December 4 to 13, 2025, in the historic Al-Balad district of Jeddah. The Souk itself will run from December 6 to 10, uniting filmmakers, producers, investors, and industry professionals from around the globe.

Empowering Emerging Talent

This initiative is dedicated to nurturing emerging talent from Saudi Arabia, the broader Arab world, Africa, and Asia. It provides filmmakers with the chance to elevate their projects through international co-production opportunities, industry mentorship, and direct access to distributors, sales agents, and festival programmers. The Project Market will showcase 12 projects spanning fiction, animation, and creative documentaries, all helmed by directors of Arab, African, or Asian descent. Selected participants will benefit from tailored mentorship, pitch their projects, and engage in one-on-one meetings with potential partners. These projects will be featured alongside the 12 in-development projects from the Red Sea Lodge.

Works-in-Progress: Exclusive Screenings

Additionally, the Works-in-Progress section will highlight eight feature films currently in post-production. These films will be screened exclusively for accredited professionals, allowing director-producer teams to receive invaluable editorial feedback and targeted exposure to key players in global distribution and exhibition.

Important Dates for Submissions

Submissions are open until June 20, 2025, for Projects-in-Development or Production, and until July 29, 2025, for Works-in-Progress. This initiative represents a significant platform for filmmakers to secure funding, refine their projects, and connect with broader international audiences.