THE SAUDI MINISTRY OF CULTURE PRESENTS
DISCOVER SAUDI CINEMA
From August 28 to September 6, 2025 – Abbazia Building, Venice
Riyadh Rana Azeem – Venice, 26 August 2025 – As part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture in Abbazia program in Venice, Italy, the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Saudi Film Commission (one of 11 sector-specific commissions under the Ministry), proudly presents Discover Saudi Cinema — a special showcase of nine short films by emerging Saudi filmmakers, held in conjunction with the Venice Film Festival.
From August 28 to September 6, 2025, the Abbazia building in Venice will host daily screenings (12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.) of short films that provide a unique insight into the diversity, creativity, and storytelling energy shaping the future of Saudi cinema.
Spanning genres from dark comedies and coming-of-age dramas to poetic documentaries and absurdist tales, these works explore themes of identity, grief, self-perception, community, tradition, and artistic expression.
Many of the films have already been recognized at leading events such as the Saudi Film Festival, the Red Sea International Film Festival, and the Cairo International Film Festival. Others mark the promising debuts of rising Saudi filmmakers whose stories—though deeply rooted in local culture—resonate universally.
Together, these films form a cinematic mosaic that highlights the richness of Saudi Arabia’s creative voices and its growing role on the international film stage.
Special Panel Discussion
On Wednesday, August 29, at 6:00 p.m., the Abbazia program will host the panel “The Saudi Film Industry: Crafting Cinematic Success”. Directors, industry professionals, and cultural experts will discuss the development of a national cinematic identity, addressing challenges and opportunities while exploring cinema as a platform for intercultural dialogue and a dynamic expression of Saudi society and art.
Program Context
The Saudi Ministry of Culture in Abbazia is part of the Kingdom’s cultural activations in Venice, running May 10 to November 23, 2025, alongside Saudi Arabia’s participation in the 19th Venice Architecture Biennale. The initiative reflects the Ministry’s mission to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s cultural presence globally, promote international exchange, and showcase the richness of its artistic heritage.
Event Details
Discover Saudi Cinema
Abbazia Building, Dorsoduro 172, Venice
August 28 – September 6, 2025
Daily Screenings: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Q&A Sessions with Filmmakers:
Thursday, August 28 – 1:00 p.m. | Ahmed Al-Nasr, Abdullah Al-Attas, Samaher Mousalli
Friday, August 29 – 12:00 p.m. | Zaki Fouad Al-Abdullah, Jawaher Al-Amri
Saturday, August 30 – 2:00 p.m. | Talal Al-Mosaad, Mohammed Baqer, Ali Al-Abdullah
