Red Sea Film Festival 2026: Dates & Submissions Set

Organizers of the Red Sea International Film Festival have confirmed that the 2026 edition will run from 3 to 12 December 2026 at the festival's headquarters in Culture Square, within Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad). The event spotlights regional and international films with a strong focus on Saudi and Arab creative talent.

Filmmakers can submit their work between 26 April and 2 August 2026 through the official festival submission portal. Early-bird submissions carry no fee until 7 July 2026. After that date, short films (under 59 minutes) cost 100 SAR and feature films (60 minutes or longer) cost 200 SAR, both inclusive of VAT. All submission fees are non-refundable, and entries are accepted in Arabic and/or English.

Both the online submission form and a film viewing copy must be completed by the 2 August deadline. For industry professionals and press, accreditation is available through an official badge, with applications open until 10 December 2026 via the festival's accreditation platform.

How the public can attend

Public screening tickets will be sold through the festival website and the Red Sea Film app after the programme is announced in November 2026. Accredited badge holders receive four complimentary film tickets

Screenings and events will be spread across cinemas and open-air venues in Al-Balad, centered on Culture Square and the surrounding heritage buildings. The choice of Historic Jeddah continues to link the Kingdom's growing film scene with one of its most treasured cultural districts, offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy cinema in a distinctive heritage setting.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving