The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

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Cairo is about to dazzle once again as the 46th edition of Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) returns from 12 to 21 November 2025. Hosted at Cairo Opera House and a selection of nearby venues, the city’s cultural heartbeat will pulse with cinema, creativity, and conversation for nine unforgettable days. Whether you’re a long-time festival-goer or simply looking for something different to experience this autumn, CIFF promises a journey into the world of storytelling that is both inspiring and unmissable.

A Celebration of World Cinema

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Every November, Cairo transforms into a cinematic playground where cultures meet and stories collide. This year’s CIFF continues that legacy, presenting over 100 films from across the globe, from daring indie productions to international award winners. The festival’s energy is unmistakable. Filmmakers, critics, and audiences converge to celebrate what unites them all: a deep love for cinema.

CIFF 46 Highlighting Modern Arab Film

Mohamed Nabil, Director of the Horizons of Arab Cinema Section via CIFF

The festival’s International Competition will once again feature films from all corners of the world, many of which may never reach regular cinemas in Egypt. Alongside it, the Horizons of Arab Cinema section shines a spotlight on regional voices and bold new storytellers, revealing the depth and diversity of Arab film today. The International Critics’ Week and the Short Film competitions add to the mix, ensuring there’s something to suit every film enthusiast, from those who crave meaningful dramas to those who seek fresh, experimental work.

The Festival’s New Dimensions: The New Media Section

Nora Kahil, Director of the New Media Section via CIFF

What sets this year’s edition apart is its growing embrace of innovation. The New Media section is one to watch, literally. It pushes the boundaries of storytelling through immersive experiences and XR (extended reality) installations, offering a taste of cinema’s future. These interactive showcases are designed to blur the lines between viewer and creator, adding a new layer to CIFF’s already rich experience.

And if you’re someone who enjoys the unexpected, the Midnight Screenings are a must. These late-night showings often feature edgier, genre-bending films, the kind that provoke conversation long after the credits roll.

A Full Programme of Screenings and Events

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The schedule this year is set to be packed with screenings from morning to late evening. Expect premieres, intimate Q&A sessions with directors, and the occasional red-carpet buzz at the Opera House courtyard. But CIFF isn’t just about watching films, it’s also about understanding how they come to life.

The Return of Cairo Industry Days with Cairo Film Connection

Rodrigo Brum, Head of Cairo Film Connection via CIFF

The festival’s industry arm, known as Cairo Industry Days, will return with workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, including the renowned Cairo Film Connection, where filmmakers pitch their projects to international producers and distributors. These sessions offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, ideal for aspiring filmmakers and anyone curious about what goes into making great cinema.

As the countdown begins, Cairo is preparing to welcome the world once again. The Cairo International Film Festival 2025 is more than an event; it’s an experience, one that celebrates the power of cinema to connect people and spark imagination. With its blend of global premieres, regional showcases, and cultural dialogue, this year’s edition promises to be one of the most dynamic yet.