In recent years, Saudi Arabia has experienced a significant shift in its cultural landscape, marked by the lifting of a 35-year ban on cinemas in 2017. This transformative decision has paved the way for the flourishing of the country’s film industry, with the Saudi Film Festival (SFF) emerging as a driving force behind this cinematic renaissance.
Established in 2014, the SFF has played a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of Saudi filmmaking. What began as underground screenings at a local culture association has blossomed into a highly anticipated annual event, attracting filmmakers, enthusiasts, and industry professionals from across the region and beyond.
The festival’s growth has been mirrored by the expansion of Saudi Arabia’s film infrastructure. The state-of-the-art King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, known locally as ITHRA, now serves as the festival’s main venue, providing a world-class platform for showcasing Saudi cinema. Additionally, the newly established Al-Khobar Cinematheque will offer year-round programming, including screenings, exhibitions, and educational initiatives.
Beyond its cinematic offerings, the SFF has become a hub for industry development. The festival’s comprehensive program of workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions provides invaluable opportunities for filmmakers to connect, collaborate, and enhance their skills. The production market, a key component of the festival, showcases promising short and feature-length projects, connecting emerging talents with potential investors and collaborators.
The festival’s focus extends beyond Saudi Arabia’s borders, with a commitment to showcasing films from the Gulf region and facilitating cross-cultural exchange. Titles in this year’s main feature competition include ‘Fever Dream’ by Faris Godus, ‘Hajjan’ by Abu Bakr Shawky, ‘I Am Al Ittihad’ by Hamzah Tarzan, ‘It’s Always That Feeling’ by Gigi Hozimah, and ‘Within Sand’ by Mohammed Alatawi, alongside ‘Rose Water’ by Mahmood Alshakh from Bahrain and ‘Three’ by Nayla Al Khaja from the UAE.
The festival’s success is largely attributed to its close collaboration with the local film community, ensuring that the program responds directly to the needs and aspirations of emerging filmmakers. The SFF has become a meeting ground for industry professionals, facilitating networking, knowledge sharing, and the development of a supportive ecosystem for filmmaking in Saudi Arabia.
International experts are also brought in to share their insights and expertise, providing Saudi filmmakers with access to global perspectives and best practices. This year’s lineup of speakers includes Jordanian actor Munther Rayahneh, VFX expert Paul Arion, editor Ihab Gohar, and animation artist and director Travis Blaise.
As the Saudi film industry continues to evolve, the SFF remains at the forefront of innovation. For the first time, the festival will introduce a territory-based focus, highlighting independent Indian cinema. The festival will also explore the genre of science fiction, expanding its programming beyond its traditional focus on comedy.
Looking ahead, the future of Saudi cinema appears bright. The industry is experiencing rapid growth, with the number of local productions increasing steadily. The SFF continues to play a crucial role in this growth, providing a platform for emerging talents, fostering collaboration, and contributing to the development of a vibrant and internationally recognized film industry in Saudi Arabia.
