By Dalia Bnjabi

JEDDAH — The Red Sea International Film Festival is set to return to the historic Al Balad district of Jeddah from Dec. 5 to 14, after being held for the last two years at the Ritz Carlton hotel.

This year’s edition, themed “Cinema Has a New Home,” features a diverse program that includes six Saudi feature films and 27 short films, highlighting the growth of Saudi Arabia's film industry.

The festival also includes works by 38 female directors from 19 countries, underscoring a commitment to celebrating women’s creativity and cultural diversity in cinema.

Mohammed Asiri, CEO of the Red Sea International Film Festival, emphasized the festival's dedication to global cinematic experiences, stating, “This edition confirms our commitment to presenting world-class films.”

He noted that 50% of the films screened will be exclusive, with 48 international premieres and additional regional premieres across the Middle East and North Africa.

Asiri highlighted the festival’s impact on filmmakers since its launch four years ago, noting that “The Red Sea Fund has supported over 270 films, and Red Sea Labs has backed more than 170 filmmakers from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world, Africa, and Asia.” Film submissions rose from 1,891 last year to 2,006 this year, with over 80 countries represented.

Among the anticipated screenings, India’s Reema Kagti will present Maligaon the Incredibles, and K-Pops, directed by Grammy winner Anderson, will make its regional debut. Other notable films include A Surprise Christmas, starring Jane Fonda, and Johnny Depp’s Moody.

The festival will open with the Egyptian film Daay, and Egyptian actress Mona Zaki and American actress and producer Viola Davis are set to be honored.