Cairo International Film Festival management announced the opening of film submissions for its 47th edition, scheduled to take place from November 11 to 20, 2026. Submissions from filmmakers worldwide will be accepted starting today, April 15, and will continue until August 1, 2026, through the festival’s official website, with an early bird submission period available until May 22.
Festival President, actor Hussein Fahmy, pointed out his anticipation to receive cinematic works that reflect diverse cultures and artistic visions, continuing the festival’s role in supporting the cinema industry and providing a serious space for intellectual and cultural interaction between filmmakers and audiences.
Critic Mohamed Tarek, the festival’s Artistic Director, explained that the team started preparations early, confirming that the submission process consistently reveals promising talents and fresh cinematic voices, which the management is keen to provide the necessary space to emerge and participate.
Cairo International Film Festival is held annually under the auspices of the Egyptian Ministry of Culture and is classified as one of the most prestigious cinematic events in the Arab world and Africa. It stands out as the only festival in the Arab and African region registered under Category « A » by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). The festival represents a major platform for supporting and evaluating the international film industry and provides a vital space for cultural convergence and the exchange of cinematic expertis.
