The Saudi Film Festival will open its 12th edition April 23-29 at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dhahran, exploring this year’s theme “Cinema of the Journey” through road movies, travel narratives and stories where movement drives the plot.
From Humble Beginnings to Regional Platform
Launched in 2008 as the Kingdom’s first film festival, the event initially ran intermittently before establishing itself as an annual gathering. The Cinema Association organizes the festival in partnership with Ithra, with support from the Film Commission of the Ministry of Culture.
“Our doors are open to all creators, and filmmakers remain at the heart of everything we do,” said Ahmed Al-Mulla, the festival’s founder and director.
Korean Cinema Takes Center Stage
Following last year’s spotlight on Japanese cinema, the 2026 edition features Korean films alongside Arab and international works. The festival includes narrative and documentary competitions, industry programs, and a production market where filmmakers connect with financiers and distributors.
Tariq Al-Khawaji, Ithra’s deputy director, noted the festival’s consistent growth: “The festival continues to grow across all areas, from preparations and participation to industry expectations locally and regionally.
A Hub for Emerging Talent
Since Ithra became a strategic partner in 2014, the festival has positioned itself among the Gulf’s most prestigious cinema events. It provides Saudi and GCC filmmakers with screening opportunities, script development support, educational workshops, and networking sessions unavailable through commercial channels.
The week-long event attracts film enthusiasts alongside professionals, offering masterclasses, panel discussions, and one-on-one consultations with industry experts, cementing Dhahran’s place on the regional film calendar each spring.
