The 11th Saudi Film Festival opened its doors at Ithra on Thursday, April 17, with artists, storytellers, production houses and film lovers gathering in one spotlight.
Like in previous years, the festival is not merely a glittery affair but more of a showcase of culture, creativity, and the unique voices shaping Saudi Arabia’s place on the world stage. From thought-provoking narratives to powerful cinematography, the festival’s opening night was a strong signal that Saudi film industry is not just growing—it’s thriving.
Saudi Film Festival: 11 years and counting
This year’s Saudi Film Festival runs from Thursday, April 17 to Wednesday, April 23, with the theme “Cinema of Identity,” alongside a special focus on Japanese cinema, exploring the profound connections between films and cultural narratives.
The Saudi Film Festival, the largest gathering of Saudi and Gulf filmmakers is a multi-faceted event organized by the Cinema Association in strategic partnership with the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). Fully supported by the Saudi Film Commission, the cultural and cinematic event focuses on how the film sector contributes to the societal development in the Kingdom and the Gulf region. The Festival includes screenings, training workshops, cultural seminars, advanced lessons, a production market, and a project pitching competition.
Launched in 2008, the Saudi Film Festival is considered the oldest film festival in the Kingdom. Through the years, it has been a relevant opportunity for local filmmakers to screen their films, create scripts, immerse in educational programs, and engage with fellow creatives to collaborate on future projects. The Festival also gives cinephiles the avenue to reach out to key players in Saudi Arabia’s film industry and to access independent films that are not available through mainstream cinema. New filmmakers in Saudi and nearby GCC countries consider the Festival one of the most vital events in their field if they are hoping to jumpstart their careers or enterprise.
Saudi Film Festival: A night of glamor and creativity
Gracing the red carpet event were Aixa Kay and Khaled Saqer, who both presented this year’s ceremony. Renowned Japanese filmmakers Koji Yamamura, Masakazu Kaneko, Naoko Tajima, and Ken Oshia were in attendance as well. Other prominent figures in the Saudi and Gulf film industry were also spotted interacting with the press and special guests.
Kicking off the Festival’s opening was Osama Al Khurayji’s debut film Siwar which is inspired by true events. The film, written by Rashed Al-Munajjim, dramatically shows the story of Saudi and Turkish new-borns switched by mistake at birth.
“The Saudi Film Festival has become more than just a platform where films are screened; it has become a dynamic and vibrant space where visions are created and reality is reshaped through creative storytelling that reflects the diversity of Saudi society and the richness of its identity,” Noura Alzamil, Head of Programs at Ithra, said during the event’s welcome ceremony.
Saudi Film Festival highlights
Film enthusiasts who wish to take part in the Festival are in for an extraordinary experience. Firstly, they can watch their choice of films from a diverse selection of 68 screenings that will be held during the week-long Festival. Aside from Saudi and Gulf features, there are also short and documentary films with various themes.
Additionally, international and Arab films that resonate with the festival’s theme will be presented in collaboration with Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival. This is in addition to four short Japanese films to be screened in collaboration with Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia, offering attendees a global perspective on “Cinema of Identity.” Notable screenings include: An Orange from Jaffa, Hobal, My Driver and I, and The Dark Side of Japan.
Other attractions in the Festival include a Production Market, Panel Discussions and Masterclasses, Meet the Experts, Japan Spotlight, and Film Awards. These are all opportunities to learn more about the behind the scenes in making a film and at the same time appreciate the craftsmanship that goes with every cinematic project.
Passes and further information are available through the Ithra website.
About The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra)
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is a leading cultural destination in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. The center focuses on enriching people’s lives by offering impactful cultural and creative programs and initiatives. Since its opening in 2018, Ithra has become a distinguished architectural landmark which houses the Idea Lab, Library, Theater, Museum, Cinema, Great Hall, Energy Exhibit, Children’s Museum and Knowledge Tower. For more information, please visit the Ithra website.
Mon Apr 17-Wed Apr 23. ITHRA, Dhahran, ithra.com.
