Trying to stay afloat in the moving pictures business?
The Saudi Ministry of Culture along with the Film Commission has been working to uplift the Saudi film industry one event at a time.
After opening public submissions for the 98th Oscars’ International Feature category, the ministry and commission are back with another event, the prodigal Saudi Film Confex 2025.
The all-things-film celebration is back in Riyadh and the third edition of the annual event will kick-off on Wednesday, October 22. The event is promising to be bigger and better than the last two.
What’s more, it has been announced that everyone’s favorite fictional pirate, Captain Jack Sparrow a.k.a Johnny Depp will be speaking on the opening night.
The confex serves as a global hub for the film industry, bringing together key players to create business opportunities, help companies grow into internationally competitive ventures, and inspire creatives to craft films of world-class quality.
So, put on your most comfortable shoes and prepare to explore the sprawling event. Here is everything to know about the upcoming conference.
Saudi Film Confex 2025
The Saudi Film Confex is back this year in the Saudi capital for its third edition, building on the huge success of its past two events that drew in over 230 exhibitors, 100 speakers, 40+ workshops, and more than 130,000 visitors. Designed as a global stage for the film industry, it connects major players, sparks new business opportunities, and inspires creatives to bring world-class stories to life.
More than just a conference, the Confex is a buzzing hub where filmmakers, studios, distributors, investors, tech innovators, and government bodies from around the world come together. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and growth, it’s helping shape the future of filmmaking and positioning Saudi Arabia as a rising force in the global industry.
Saudi Film Confex Riyadh 2025 Johnny Depp location
This year’s conference will be held at the iconic King Saud University. The second largest university in Saudi Arabia, you can enter the education hub from Khalid Road, King Abdullah Road, and Prince Turki Bin Abdulaziz Al Awal Road.
Saudi Film Confex 2025 Johnny Depp dates and time
The four-day event will begin on Wednesday, October 22 and end of Saturday, October 25, giving you four days to explore the film haven. Johnny Depp is set to take the stage at 4.22pm today.
You can while away your weekend at the event because it will start from 3pm and end at 11pm.
Saudi Film Confex 2025 tickets
The event is not ticketed but you do need to register which can be done via saudifilmconfex.com.
Saudi Film Confex 2025 what to expect
Saudi Film Confex is a lively hub where creativity meets business, bringing together filmmakers, studios, distributors, investors, tech innovators, and government representatives from around the world. It’s the perfect place to connect, collaborate, and spark new opportunities in the film industry.
By promoting partnerships and encouraging innovation, the Confex is helping drive the industry forward. From nurturing fresh ideas to accelerating growth, it’s shaping the future of filmmaking and putting Saudi Arabia firmly on the global cinema map.
Industry exhibition
The Saudi Film Confex hosts a huge exhibition where over 120 local, regional, and international players, from production houses and film commissions to streaming platforms and investors, come together. It’s a buzzing marketplace for deals, partnerships, and showcasing talent across the entire film industry.
International conference
The conference features an exciting lineup of keynotes, panels, and talks from top voices in the global film industry. Covering everything from investment and co-productions to AI in cinema, emerging markets, and the future of storytelling, it’s a deep dive into the trends shaping filmmaking today.
Specialized workshops
The Confex offers a variety of hands-on workshops led by top regional and international experts. Covering everything from screenwriting and directing to production, financing, and distribution, these sessions are designed to boost skills and help film professionals at all levels grow their craft and career.
Accompanying events
Beyond the main program, Saudi Film Confex offers a packed lineup of side events, from networking lounges and talent auditions to competitions, consultations, and exclusive behind-the-scenes showcases. These experiences make it easy to connect, engage, and dive deeper into the world of filmmaking.
Saudi Arabia and films
Looking to explore your film passion more before the confex? Head down to the cloudy and cool Abha where the Film Criticism Conference is set to start from this weekend. The conference will travel to Qatif in September before ending its Saudi tour in Riyadh in October.
Wed Oct 22-Sat Oct 25. 3pm-11pm. King Saud University, saudifilmconfex.com / @filmconfex.
