The El Gouna Film Festival has announced details of its ninth edition, set to take place from October 15-23, 2026. The festival, founded in 2017, has established itself as a prominent platform for cinema and cultural exchange. This year's edition will feature over 80 films from around the world, including narrative, documentary, and short films. The festival's theme, "Cinema for Humanity," reflects its commitment to showcasing stories that highlight the human experience.
The festival's ninth edition will include a range of activities and programs, including workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions. The event will also feature a expanded version of its CineGouna platform, which supports emerging filmmakers. This year, CineGouna will include a new program focused on developing television series, with six projects selected from the Arab world. The festival will also launch two new initiatives, including one that provides financing and mentorship for Egyptian filmmakers and another that supports filmmakers who have been forced to flee their countries.
The El Gouna Film Festival will honor Egyptian actress Mona Zaki with its Lifetime Achievement Award. Zaki's career spans over two decades, and she has made significant contributions to Egyptian cinema and television. The festival will also feature a range of films that showcase diverse perspectives and experiences. The event's organizers say that the selection of films reflects the festival's commitment to promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
The festival's founders and organizers, including engineer Samih Sawiris, actress Yosra, and CEO of El Gouna Mohamed Amer, attended a press conference to announce the details of the ninth edition. Sawiris emphasized the festival's commitment to providing a platform for filmmakers from Egypt, the Arab world, and Africa to share their stories. He also highlighted the festival's role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding between different communities.
The El Gouna Film Festival has become a major event on the international film festival circuit, attracting filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences from around the world. The festival's focus on "Cinema for Humanity" reflects its commitment to promoting social and cultural awareness through film. This year's edition will feature a range of films and activities that showcase the diversity and richness of global cinema.
The festival's CineGouna program has become a key initiative in supporting emerging filmmakers. This year, the program received over 1,000 applications, with 118 participants selected from 14 different countries. The program provides participants with training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, as well as access to industry professionals and leaders.
The El Gouna Film Festival's ninth edition promises to be an exciting and engaging event, with a range of films, activities, and programs that showcase the best of global cinema. The festival's commitment to promoting cultural exchange, social awareness, and emerging talent reflects its position as a leading platform for filmmakers and industry professionals.
Key points
- The El Gouna Film Festival's ninth edition will take place from October 15-23, 2026, featuring over 80 films and expanded programs.
- The festival will honor Egyptian actress Mona Zaki with its Lifetime Achievement Award.
- The festival's CineGouna program has become a key initiative in supporting emerging filmmakers, with 118 participants selected from 14 different countries.
