The collaboration aims to build cultural bridges and facilitate knowledge exchange between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The British Council Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the Saudi Cinema Association, has participated in the 10th edition of the Saudi Film Festival with an array of events and initiatives, showcasing a shared commitment to fostering cultural exchange and nurturing emerging talent within the Saudi film industry.
Recognising the pivotal role of arts and film in shaping societies and fostering international dialogue, the British Council, a people-to-people organisation, aims to build understanding, connections, and trust. Leveraging this ethos, the partnership seeks to build cultural bridges and facilitate knowledge exchange between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Central to this collaboration is a focus on capacity building within the Saudi film sector, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which prioritises the development of creative industries. Animation emerges as a key area for growth, with Studio Ulster and the Saudi Cinema Association spearheading a training programme aimed at equipping Saudi filmmakers with cutting-edge animation skills.
Commencing online and continuing during the festival, the programme underscores the partners’ commitment to nurturing local talent and positioning Saudi Arabia as a hub for creative excellence globally. Complementing this initiative are masterclasses led by industry stalwarts from Blue Zoo Productions, offering invaluable insights into building a thriving animation industry.
As part of the festivities, the British Council will showcase a curated selection of UK short films, providing a platform for British filmmakers to engage with Saudi audiences and forge meaningful connections. UK delegates will also be present to explore collaboration opportunities and scout emerging talent within the vibrant Saudi film landscape.
Amany Abouzeid, Regional Arts Director of British Council MENA, emphasised the festival’s role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s cultural agenda and said: “The Saudi Cinema Association has been instrumental in nurturing young Saudi talent and supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. We believe in the power of the arts to drive socio-economic development and are committed to fostering long-term partnerships that empower artists and enrich communities.”
Lloyd Anderson, Country Director of British Council Saudi Arabia, added: “Our mission is to strengthen relations between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by building trust and lasting connections. Through initiatives like the Saudi Film Festival, we aim to empower aspiring young people and professionals, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation.”
Ahmed Al Mulla, Founder of the Saudi Cinema Association, stated: “Our filmmakers were dreamers. They made their films underground and then went outside the country to screen them but couldn’t talk about the experience when they returned. Now, things changed in the blink of an eye. It’s a revolution, what’s happened in Saudi Arabia with art and culture.”
The 10th edition of the Saudi Film Festival promises to be a celebration of creativity, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange, offering a glimpse into the boundless potential of the Saudi film industry. In conjunction with this, the festival coincides with the launch of “Cinematheque AlKhobar,” providing filmmakers access to various aspects of the film industry and offering artistic products, spaces, and events to communities in Alkhobar and beyond.
