This year presented a series of unprecedented challenges, especially after the difficult circumstances faced by the region last year, which led to the festival's postponement. Given the devastating impact on the Palestinian people—entire communities were destroyed, and countless innocent lives were lost—it was unthinkable to go ahead with the festival at that time.
The postponement also created significant logistical complications. Many plans had already been put into motion, including flights and accommodations for guests. We were forced to reorganize everything within an incredibly tight timeframe, apologizing to juries and explaining the situation to the International Federation of Film Producers Associations. Rescheduling was not an option, as major international festivals operate on fixed dates.
With the festival now taking place this year, we had to essentially start from scratch—forming new juries, selecting new films (as some of the original choices had already premiered elsewhere), and accommodating the changing availability of jury members. It’s been a tireless effort, but we succeeded in restoring confidence in the festival. The goal remains to deliver an excellent edition, one that honors both the resilience of the industry and the importance of cultural dialogue.
- To what extent have the budget and financial conditions posed a challenge?
Financial challenges are a common reality for film festivals worldwide, affecting cultural institutions across the globe. In conversations with colleagues and festival directors from different regions, I've realized we all face similar obstacles. What sets us apart, however, is our unique approach: we operate within a dual system that combines both public and private sector support, with backing from sponsors and government assistance.
This year, we’ve successfully regained the trust of our sponsors, while government support continues to provide the essential resources necessary for the festival’s success. I’m proud to say our financial position is solid. The budget remains stable, and we’ve managed to maintain high operational efficiency. Our partners, many of whom are Egyptian companies, reflect our commitment to supporting the local industry. Notably, we’re working with "Fresh," a fully Egyptian company, alongside returning partners like "Spiro Spathis" and Banque Misr, a key player in Egyptian cinema with its founding of Studio Misr. Partnerships with EgyptAir and the Tourism Promotion Authority, along with hosting our guests at the Sofitel Hotel, further strengthen the foundation of this year’s festival.
These strategic collaborations have allowed us to launch the festival smoothly, despite the challenges. It's also important to note that we’ve made a clear stand by boycotting any company or entity on the boycott list, as our support for the Palestinian cause remains a guiding principle—no challenge will change that.
The decision to postpone last year’s festival was an act of solidarity with the Palestinian people, and holding this year’s edition only amplifies our commitment to this cause. During my visits to international festivals like Berlin and Venice, I saw a focus on political issues like the war in Ukraine. For us at the Cairo International Film Festival, it’s equally important to bring attention to our own urgent issues, with the Palestinian and Lebanese causes taking center stage.
- How has the collaboration and teamwork among the festival’s leadership shaped its direction during such a challenging time?
Collaboration and teamwork have been key to the direction and success of the Cairo International Film Festival, especially during these challenging times. The festival holds a prestigious place in the global film industry, and maintaining the high standards that have earned us international recognition is a priority. Our commitment to excellence is not just a guiding principle but the heart of everything we do, uniting our team in pursuit of a shared vision.
Over the years, I’ve developed a clear vision for the festival—one that pushes boundaries and enriches the cultural landscape. Realizing this vision has required dedication, innovation, and most importantly, collaboration. This year, with a new team in place, I’ve witnessed an extraordinary sense of unity. It has been this cohesion that has enabled us to navigate and overcome the challenges we’ve faced. The collective strength and alignment within our team have not only ensured the survival of the festival but have positioned us to thrive. Together, we are building on our shared values and working toward an even brighter future for the Cairo International Film Festival.
- What do you consider to be the standout features of this year's edition?
While our program boasts a diverse and impactful selection of films, what truly sets this year’s edition apart is our deep focus on the Palestinian cause, highlighted through Palestinian cinema. We believe in the transformative power of art, especially film, to illuminate the stories and struggles of oppressed communities. Each film is a powerful testament to the resilience and aspirations of its people. This year, we are also placing a significant emphasis on Lebanese cinema, further supporting voices from the region that need to be heard on the global stage.
Our festival is more than just a celebration of film—it’s a platform for meaningful dialogue and solidarity. We are offering filmmakers from Palestine and Lebanon the opportunity to showcase their work to a global audience, amplifying their messages of hope, resistance, and resilience. Ultimately, the core of this year’s festival is its commitment to upholding the universal human values of justice, peace, and freedom—values that transcend borders and resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
- What is the festival's vision this year for enhancing support for young filmmakers, students, and cinema professionals?
Having previously led the Cairo International Film Festival from 1998 to 2001 and returning to the role in 2022, my commitment to supporting young filmmakers and students remains a central focus. I vividly remember my own time as a student at the Film Institute, attending the festival and watching films that broadened my understanding of cinema. Now, I want to offer the next generation of filmmakers and film lovers the same transformative experience. During my earlier tenure as president, I ensured that festival films were accessible to students at the institute, hosting special screenings and providing discounted tickets to guarantee their access to global cinema.
The Cairo International Film Festival isn’t just a celebration of international films; it's a platform for cultural exchange that opens up the world of cinema to young people everywhere. Whether aspiring filmmakers or simply film enthusiasts, this festival offers a unique chance to explore diverse stories and experiences from around the globe—stories that often extend beyond the mainstream fare of year-round cinema. It's a cultural and artistic opportunity that I believe every young person should have the chance to embrace.
This year, we are deepening our commitment to young filmmakers by expanding the Cairo Industry Days (CID), which has grown significantly from previous editions. We’re also revitalizing the Cairo Industry Market, which has been on hold for many years. The return of the Cairo Industry Market marks an exciting step forward, positioning the festival as an even more dynamic force within the global film festival landscape.
At the same time, we’re strengthening our ties to Egypt’s cinematic heritage. The restoration of classic Egyptian films is not just about preserving history, but also about forging stronger connections between generations of filmmakers. I am particularly proud of our partnership with the Holding Company for Cultural & Cinematic Investment and The Egyptian Media Production City, which has allowed us to restore ten iconic films this year, with twelve more currently in progress. To ensure these films are accessible to international audiences, we are adding subtitles, making Egypt’s cinematic treasures available to the world.
By focusing on both the future of cinema and its rich past, the Cairo International Film Festival serves as a true cultural bridge—fostering global collaboration, supporting emerging talent, and celebrating the legacy that has shaped the industry.
- What are the goals behind expanding the festival’s screenings beyond the Opera House and Cairo Downtown?
Traditionally, our screenings have been concentrated around the Opera House in the heart of Cairo, but this year, we’re taking a bold step forward. We've expanded into new residential areas on the city's outskirts, such as 6th of October City and New Cairo, through a partnership with Vox Cinemas. This is an exciting and necessary move. As Cairo grows and develops, the central district is no longer the focal point for many residents, especially those in these newly established areas. By bringing the festival to these neighborhoods, we’re opening the doors to a wider, more diverse audience who may have previously had limited access. This expansion allows us to break down geographical barriers and ensure that the magic of the Cairo International Film Festival reaches those who are eager to engage with global cinema. Ultimately, it’s about making the festival more inclusive and offering an immersive cultural experience to everyone, no matter where they live.
- Do you believe the growing presence of both Arab and international media is important for restoring the festival’s global image?
The attention the Cairo International Film Festival has garnered from both Arab and international press this year is truly remarkable. We’re receiving coverage from across the Arab world, along with a strong presence of international journalists. Beyond traditional media, we’ve strengthened our partnerships with major outlets like Forbes USA, Variety, Screen Daily, and Film Verdict. Key platforms such as "Watch It" and "Shahid" have also shown significant interest, further expanding the festival's reach. I’m thrilled by this increased media presence and look forward to seeing it continue to grow.
The Cairo International Film Festival is making a strong comeback. The break we took last year provided a valuable opportunity for reflection, enabling us to regroup and refocus. It feels like a fresh start—a second wind. This year’s edition is set to not only mark our return but also help the festival reclaim its rightful place on the global stage. I invite audiences to join us for this exciting edition, which boasts a diverse and captivating film program, significant events, and the opportunity to interact with filmmakers and stars. In 2022, we saw impressive ticket sales, with over 45,000 attendees. This year, we’re aiming to surpass that number, reaching even more people from around the world.
