At a Glance

  • Location: Dammam – Saudi Film Festival 2025
  • Date: 9 Shawwal 1446 AH / April 7, 2025

The Saudi Film Festival, organized by the Saudi Film Society in partnership with the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) and with support from the Film Commission, has announced that 21 short narrative films will compete in this year's official competition, submitted by Saudi, Gulf and Arab filmmakers, in a cinematic contest reflecting the diversity of experiences, visions and artistic approaches across the Arab world.

The 11th edition of the festival will run from April 17 to 23 in Dhahran under the theme “Stories Seen and Told.” This year's edition features a lineup of works addressing deep human and social issues such as loss, inner transformation and personal memory, alongside subjects tied to everyday life and its finer details.

The competing films blend realist and experimental approaches, moving between personal and social narratives, within a varied visual framework that reflects the ambitions of a new generation of regional filmmakers. The competition also includes works receiving their international premiere, reinforcing the event's value as a launchpad for Arab talent onto the world stage.

The participating works are judged by a specialized jury including prominent names in directing, screenwriting and content development, ensuring high professional standards throughout the judging process.

The Saudi Film Festival serves as a comprehensive cinematic platform, offering a varied program that includes a “Production Market,” the “Cinema of Identity” program, and a special showcase titled “Spotlight on Japanese Cinema,” in addition to panel discussions and specialized seminars, and the launch of the “Saudi Cinema Encyclopedia” — an event that celebrates the local film industry and strengthens its place on the global cinema map.