The first cycle of the Red Sea Fund is dedicated to projects that have completed production, providing post-production support across feature-length fiction, documentary and animation films.
The Red Sea Fund, an initiative of the Red Sea Film Foundation, has opened submissions for post-production projects as part of its first funding cycle for 2026. Applications will be accepted from January 6 through January 27, 2026, as the Fund continues its mission to support emerging filmmakers from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world, Africa and Asia.
The new funding cycle is dedicated exclusively to projects that have completed principal photography and are seeking support during post-production. Eligible projects include feature-length fiction, documentary and animation films, with the Fund offering direct financial grants to help filmmakers bring their works to completion. Applications must be submitted through the Fund’s official online portal.
Launched in 2021, the Red Sea Fund has backed more than 330 projects to date, many of which have gone on to achieve international recognition and win awards at major global film festivals. The Fund has positioned itself as a key supporter of diverse cinematic voices, with a particular focus on stories emerging from the Global South.
To qualify, projects must be feature-length films with a minimum running time of 60 minutes. Directors must be of African or Asian nationality, or of Arab nationality or origin. Applicants are required to submit a complete rough cut of their film via a private online link, accompanied by English subtitles for any non-English dialogue.
Submissions must include a comprehensive set of materials in English, with the exception of scripts for Saudi projects, which may be submitted in Arabic. Required materials include a detailed logline and synopsis, chain of title documentation, the final script or treatment depending on genre, a full project budget covering all stages of production and a financial plan outlining existing or pending funding. Applicants must also explain how the Red Sea Fund grant would be used during post-production, provide project timelines, and submit biographies of the director and producer, along with a short video statement describing the project’s current status. Additional supporting materials such as mood boards, release strategies and optional storyboards may also be included.
Projects selected for funding must be completed within six months of signing the Red Sea Fund Agreement. If delays arise, filmmakers are required to notify the Fund in writing, providing reasons and a revised completion timeline.
Funding is disbursed in two instalments. An initial payment of 80% is made 45 days after the agreement is signed, while the remaining 20% is released upon delivery and approval of the final film, fulfilment of contractual obligations and submission of a final cost report.
