Dhahran – April 20, 2025 (22 Shawwal 1446H)

The 11th edition of the Saudi Film Festival continues in the city of Dhahran, organized by the Cinema Society in cooperation with the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), and supported by the Film Commission, running until April 23. The festival is a prominent cinematic platform drawing elite creatives and filmmaking specialists from within the Kingdom and abroad.

The festival spotlights independent Saudi film productions and celebrates creative achievements by honoring prominent names that have enriched the local art scene, alongside showcasing inspiring behind-the-scenes filmmaking experiences and addressing the importance of creative solutions and modern technologies in advancing Saudi cinema toward the global stage.

Local and International Cultural and Artistic Presence

The festival featured participation from Saudi and international artists, filmmakers and industry experts, making it a comprehensive platform for exchanging experiences and expertise, and opening avenues for cultural and artistic cooperation between different cinematic schools.

Cultural Scholarships: A Gateway for Rising Talent

In a cultural symposium held during the festival, Dr. Tahani Al-Dasimani, Director of Higher Education Administration at the Ministry of Culture, addressed the "Cultural Scholarship Program," affirming that it forms a fundamental pillar in qualifying distinguished Saudi talent in film and the arts, and calling for supporting young talent through educational opportunities that match their creative ambitions.

Empowering Filmmakers and Strengthening Film Culture

Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Ghannam, head of the unproduced screenplay jury, praised the significant role the festival plays in developing cinematic taste and empowering emerging talent, considering it a unique educational and creative platform combining theory and practice.

Meanwhile, Dr. Mohammed Al-Bashir, head of the Cinema Committee at the Al-Ahsa Society for Culture and Arts, affirmed that the development of the Saudi Film Festival reflects the maturity of the local film industry, explaining that the festival creates a genuine competitive environment among filmmakers and an ideal platform for exchanging expertise and building partnerships that contribute to developing the Kingdom's film sector.