Sharjah Film Festival Director

Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi leads Sharjah Intl. Film Festival for Children and Youth.

“Learning how to make a film is one thing, but getting that film produced and seen by an audience is a completely different challenge”

Festival Expansion Plan

SIFF doubles its Film Pitching Session projects from three to six this year to connect emerging filmmakers with funders.

Global Participation

SIFF received 1,802 submissions from 72 countries, selecting 71 films from 38 countries for its official program.

Industry Focus

Al Qasimi emphasizes that Arab filmmakers need access to producers, funding, and industry contacts to succeed.

“I don’t think there is a shortage of talent or interesting stories in the Arab world”

Festival Ambassadors

Former Junior Jurors join the Festival Ambassadors Program to mentor younger participants and shape future programs.

Mobile Cinema Bus

A new Mobile Cinema Bus brings short-film screenings to neighborhoods across Sharjah.

Future Goals

Al Qasimi aims for SIFF to become a festival where international filmmakers actively seek out emerging Arab talent.

“I would like SIFF to become a festival that international filmmakers actively seek out”