FAQ

The decision was taken following a comprehensive review of a range of considerations relating to the timing of the next edition, including the logistical requirements involved in staging an international event of this scale. The Festival will return in 2027, with new dates to be announced in due course.

The sixth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival will take place in the fourth quarter of 2027.

New dates will be announced through the Red Sea Film Foundation’s official channels in due course.

All eligible films submitted for consideration for the 2026 edition were viewed and assessed as part of the Festival’s selection process, and we are deeply grateful to every filmmaker who entrusted us with their work.

If you paid a submission fee as part of your application, you will be eligible for a refund, which will be processed within 90 days of submitting your refund request. We will be in touch shortly with further information on the refund process and the steps you will need to follow.

Details regarding submissions for the sixth edition in 2027, including eligibility requirements and submission dates, will be announced separately.

A new submission process for the sixth edition will be announced in due course, including information on eligibility, timelines and how to submit.

Filmmakers should refer to the Festival’s official channels for further information once the 2027 submission process opens.

Accreditation applications for the 2026 edition will no longer proceed.

If you paid an accreditation fee as part of your application, you will be eligible for a refund, which will be processed within 90 days of submitting your refund request. We will be in touch shortly with further information on the refund process and the steps you will need to follow.

Information regarding accreditation for the sixth edition in 2027 will be announced closer to the Festival.

The Red Sea Souk will take place alongside the sixth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival in 2027.

Information regarding future application processes, programmes and deadlines will be announced through the Red Sea Film Foundation’s official channels.

Yes. The Red Sea Film Foundation is a year-round organisation, and its work will continue across the Red Sea Fund, Red Sea Labs, Red Sea Souk and its wider programmes and initiatives.

The Foundation will continue supporting filmmakers, developing talent and strengthening connections between the regional and international film industries throughout the year.

The Foundation’s planned year-round programming at Culture Square in Historic Jeddah will begin in November 2026.

Culture Square will serve as an ongoing destination for film screenings, cultural events and specialised film-industry programmes, expanding the Foundation’s engagement with audiences and the film community beyond the Festival period.

Further details of the programme and schedule will be announced through the Foundation’s official channels.

Yes. The postponement relates to the timing of the sixth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival.

The Foundation’s wider ecosystem and year-round programmes and initiatives will continue.

Specific updates relating to individual programmes, initiatives or opportunities will be communicated directly to relevant participants and through the Foundation’s official channels.

Relevant teams at the Red Sea Film Foundation will contact affected participants, partners, suppliers and other stakeholders directly regarding any specific arrangements or next steps.

If you have already been in contact with a Foundation representative regarding the 2026 Festival, you may also continue to liaise with your existing point of contact.

The Red Sea Film Foundation continues to work with its partners across its year-round activities and towards the Festival’s return in 2027.

Any arrangements affected by the revised Festival timeline will be discussed directly with the relevant organisations.