Riyadh – The Delegation of the European Union to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the Embassies of EU Member States, Arabia Pictures, and VOX Cinemas and Saudi Film Commission, is proud to announce the launch of the fourth edition of the European Film Festival in Riyadh. This celebrated cultural event will take place from 3 to 11 November 2025, building on the success of previous editions.
The festival will open with the Latvian Oscar winning film Flow. The program features 15 films from 15 European countries, showcasing a diverse range of cinematic traditions. All films will be presented with Arabic and English subtitles to ensure an engaging and accessible experience for local audiences.
Christophe Farnaud, Ambassador of the European Union to Saudi Arabia, expressed his enthusiasm for the festival’s continued growth: “Four years on, the Festival has become an indelible landmark on Saudi Arabia’s cultural calendar—a vibrant bridge of EU-Saudi cooperation that celebrates Europe’s storytelling heritage alongside the Kingdom’s rise as a global creative powerhouse.”
Abdulilah Alahmary, Founder of Arabia Pictures, shared his pride in organizing the Festival’s fourth edition: “We are excited to bring another outstanding lineup of European cinema to Saudi audiences, enriched with special guests and free masterclasses.”
The Festival program will include screenings of internationally acclaimed, award-winning films, alongside interactive two free access seminars featuring prominent European and Saudi filmmakers. Highlights include Visual Effects Artist Martins Upitis, who contributed to the Latvian film Flow, winner of the Oscar for Best Animated Feature in 2025, and Norwegian Director Kajsa Næss, director of Titina, as well as a constellation of Saudi cinema stars.
