Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF), headed by renowned actor Hussein Fahmy, has announced the signing of an agreement with Iraqi composer Yousif Abbas to compose the music for the opening ceremony of its 47th edition, scheduled to take place from November 11 to 20, 2026, as well as musical interludes, various ceremony segments, and red-carpet events.
Festival President Hussein Fahmy signed the agreement with Abbas, who will develop the musical identity for the opening ceremony and several of the edition’s key events, bringing a distinctive musical character to the celebratory atmosphere of the festival as it marks 50 years since its founding.
Abbas’s participation reflects Cairo International Film Festival’s commitment to engaging diverse artistic talents that combine experience and creativity, while highlighting the close relationship between music and cinema. As one of the most powerful forms of artistic expression, music plays a vital role in shaping the emotional and visual experience of films and cinematic events.
For his part, Yousif Abbas expressed his great pleasure at contributing to the festival’s 47th edition, in recognition of Cairo International Film Festival’s prestigious standing and rich history, and in appreciation of its role in supporting cinema and the arts and fostering connections among artists from around the world.
Yousif Abbas is a composer whose diverse body of work includes scores for Arab and international film and television productions. His compositions blend traditional Middle Eastern musical modes (maqamat) with contemporary orchestration.
His notable credits include the score for the American television series *High Value Target: The Hunt for Saddam*, as well as several Egyptian television dramas, including *Telt El Talata (Third of Three)* and *Eilam Weratha*. An accomplished oud player, Abbas also incorporates the instrument into his musical compositions.
Abbas’s participation holds particular significance for this year’s edition, as Cairo International Film Festival marks 50 years since its inaugural edition in 1976, revisiting milestones from its rich history while continuing its mission of bringing filmmakers and artists from around the world together through art and creativity.
*About Cairo International Film Festival*
Founded in 1976, Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) is held annually under the auspices of the Egyptian Ministry of Culture and is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the Arab world and Africa. The festival is officially accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF).
CIFF serves as an important platform for showcasing the latest cinematic works from around the world, supporting filmmakers and emerging talent, and fostering cultural and artistic dialogue between filmmakers and audiences. It also plays a vital role in supporting the film industry through its specialized programs, forums, and professional activities.
