About the Festival
A platform for Arab voices, stories, and cinematic excellence
Our Vision
To be Australia's premier showcase of Arab cinema, fostering cross-cultural understanding and celebrating the artistic achievements of Arab filmmakers. We envision a future where Arab stories are recognized, appreciated, and celebrated as essential contributions to world cinema.
Our Mission
We connect Australian audiences with the vibrant world of Arab cinema through carefully curated film programs, industry events, and cultural exchanges. Our mission is to provide a platform that elevates Arab voices, supports emerging filmmakers, and builds bridges between cultures through the universal language of cinema.
Our Purpose
Why Arab Cinema in Australia
Arab cinema represents a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and perspectives from across 22 countries. In Australia, home to a vibrant Arab diaspora, these films provide both a connection to heritage and an opportunity for broader audiences to discover new perspectives.
By showcasing Arab cinema, we celebrate diversity, challenge stereotypes, and highlight the creativity and resilience of Arab storytellers who continue to push boundaries in one of the world's most dynamic film traditions.
Festival History
Expanding to multiple cities with 50+ films from 15 countries.
Introduced industry panels and networking events.
First awards ceremony recognizing excellence in Arab cinema.
Doubled attendance with 30+ films from 10 countries.
Inaugural festival featuring 15 films from 8 countries.
Our Team
Amira El-Sayed
Festival Director
Film curator with 15 years of experience in international cinema.
Hassan Mansour
Program Director
Award-winning filmmaker and programming specialist.
Leila Khoury
Industry Coordinator
Film industry professional with expertise in Arab cinema.
Omar Badawi
Marketing Director
Communications expert passionate about cultural storytelling.
Yasmin Farah
Community Liaison
Building bridges between communities through film.
Karim Rashid
Technical Director
Cinema technology specialist ensuring perfect screenings.
Join us in celebrating the power of Arab storytelling