The pavilion will serve as a hub for industry professionals, hosting curated panel discussions, high-level networking sessions and a range of cinematic activations.
In a move to boost the global visibility of Egyptian cinema and promote Egypt as a prime destination for international film production, the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has announced its official return to the Marché du Film de Cannes (Cannes Film Market) through a joint national pavilion, held in collaboration with the El Gouna Film Festival and the Egypt Film Commission (EFC).
Set to take place during the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, the Egyptian pavilion marks a major comeback after years of absence and represents a unified front in support of the Egyptian film industry. The initiative is designed to strengthen collaboration between Egyptian and Arab film festivals, explore co-production opportunities, and position Egypt as a leading hub for international filmmaking. With more than 60 international productions already filmed in Egypt, the EFC’s participation will further showcase the country’s potential as a diverse and accessible filming location.
The pavilion will also shine a spotlight on emerging Egyptian talent, with scheduled events including panel discussions and networking sessions that aim to connect local filmmakers with global industry professionals and spark new collaborative ventures.
Hussein Fahmy, President of the Cairo International Film Festival, stated: “We are delighted to see Egypt making a strong return to the Cannes Film Market through a national pavilion that brings together the country’s two leading film festivals, alongside the Egypt Film Commission. Through this pavilion, we aim to spotlight Egyptian cinema—both contemporary and classic—offering a distinguished image of Egypt after a long absence.”
Mohamed Tarek, Artistic Director of the Cairo International Film Festival, added: “This pavilion represents an ambitious return, with three major entities joining forces to support the Egyptian film industry. It serves as a platform to introduce the two festivals and the commission, engage in discussions with other Arab film festivals on the future of Arab cinema, and highlight Egypt’s appeal as a filming destination.”
The Egyptian presence at Cannes will include curated panels on the future of Egyptian and Arab cinema, industry challenges, and the broader evolution of regional filmmaking. Networking receptions will further facilitate dialogue and collaboration between Egyptian creatives and international decision-makers.
This collaborative effort reflects a shared vision between CIFF, El Gouna Film Festival and the Egypt Film Commission to empower the next generation of filmmakers, support the local industry and reestablish Egypt’s role as a central player on the global cinematic stage.
