As part of Cairo Industry Days held within the 46th Cairo International Film Festival, the Open-Air Theatre of the Cairo Opera House hosts today, Wednesday, November 19, a panel titled “Arab Cinematic Content: Crossing Borders and Sharing Stories” from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM. The session is moderated by journalist and film critic Mohamed Nabil.
The panel features prominent Arab filmmakers Mohamed Hefzy, Shahinaz Al-Aqqad, Ola Salama, and Rasha El Emam, who come together to discuss the current transformations in the Arab cinematic content industry and the strategies employed by creators to cross borders and reach a global audience while preserving authentic cultural identity.
The discussion covers the new wave of Arab storytelling led by directors and producers aiming to deliver works capable of competing globally without compromising their local specificity. It also addresses the challenges facing Arab creatives as they navigate reliance on international co-productions and efforts to build regional partnerships that support content independence and expansion.
The panel further explores how emerging Arab voices are redefining concepts of creative ownership and developing original stories that combine cultural depth with global appeal, paving the way for Arab cinema to reach wider audiences worldwide.
This session is part of a series of professional meetings organized by the festival aimed at supporting the Arab film industry, promoting experience exchange, and providing filmmakers with spaces to discuss the future of cinema in the region and its opportunities on the international stage.
About Cairo Industry Days
Launched as a dedicated platform to support and develop the film industry in the Arab world and Africa, Cairo Industry Days offers funding, training, and networking opportunities for filmmakers and international experts. The program includes major components such as the Cairo Film Forum, Professionals’ Forum, and specialized workshops. It has become one of the region’s most important professional events, offering real opportunities for project development and talent growth.
About Cairo International Film Festival
Cairo International Film Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in the Arab world and Africa, accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). Founded in 1976 and held annually under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, the festival integrates artistic and professional dimensions, serving as a major platform for intercultural dialogue and enhancing the global presence of Arab cinema.
