Eligible projects must be feature-length films in either the development or post-production phase, submitted by filmmakers from Arab countries.
The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has opened submissions for the 11th edition of the Cairo Film Connection, a major industry platform that forms part of the festival’s 46th edition, scheduled to take place from November 12 to 21, 2025. Filmmakers can apply until August 1, 2025, through the festival’s official website.
A cornerstone of CIFF’s Cairo Industry Days, the Cairo Film Connection is designed to support feature-length narrative and documentary films from the Arab world that are currently in either development or post-production. Through financial grants, production services, and matchmaking opportunities with influential producers, funders and distributors, the platform aims to empower Arab filmmakers and amplify their voices on the international stage.
CIFF President and veteran actor Hussein Fahmy said: “At CIFF, we strongly believe that supporting filmmakers from the region is fundamental to the growth of Arab cinema. Cairo Film Connection has become a true platform for launching promising projects. We take pride in what it has achieved over the years in discovering new talents and enhancing Arab cinema’s presence on the global stage.”
Mohamed Tarek, the festival’s Artistic Director, added: “Each edition, we strive to offer meaningful and diversified support to projects that stand out for their boldness and artistic integrity. The Cairo Film Connection is more than just a pitching platform—it is a vibrant space for exchange and creative dialogue between filmmakers, funders, and programmers from around the world.”
Over the years, the platform has helped propel numerous Arab projects to international acclaim. Notable examples include Four Daughters by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, Inshallah a Boy by Jordanian director Amjad Al-Rasheed, Goodbye Julia by Sudanese filmmaker Mohamed Kordofani, and The Brink of Dreams by Egypt’s Namir Abdel Messeeh—all of which went on to gain significant attention at global film festivals.
Mohamed Sayed Abdel Rahim, Head of Cairo Industry Days, stated: “Over the past ten years, the Cairo Film Connection has solidified its position as one of the most vital development platforms in the Arab region—not only because of the awards and funding it offers, but also because of the caliber of films it helps bring to life.”
The 2024 edition welcomed 18 projects from 13 Arab countries and saw participants receive 31 awards totaling over $220,000 in cash and in-kind services, provided by both local and international partners.
To be eligible, submissions must be feature-length narrative or documentary films from Arab filmmakers, either in development or post-production. Directors must be of Arab nationality or origin and must have completed at least one previous film—short or feature.
