Dhofar International Film Festival

Name: Dhofar International Film Festival
Start: 2026-09-06
End: 2026-09-09
Location: Salalah

The Dhofar International Film Festival is a four-day cinematic event taking place in Salalah, Oman, from September 6 to 9, 2026. This second edition, organized by the Oman Film Society, will feature 32 films from 16 countries competing across international and Omani narrative and documentary categories. The festival aims to support emerging filmmakers, promote national talent, and position Oman as a key center for cinematic arts and cultural exchange.

Date: Sep 6-9, 2026
Location: Salalah

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Event summary

Highlights

Screens 32 films from 16 countries.
Features four competitive categories for narrative and documentary films.
Offers workshops for young Omani filmmakers on cinematography and folk tales.
Honors artistic and media personalities from Oman and the Arab world.

The second edition of the Dhofar International Film Festival is held in Salalah, Oman, from September 6 to 9, 2026. Hosted in the Governorate of Dhofar, it operates under the patronage of the Governor. The Oman Film Society organizes the festival in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth and Dhofar Municipality. This event is designed to elevate Oman's profile as a hub for film production and foster cultural dialogue, utilizing the region's distinct landscapes and heritage to highlight national talent and encourage diverse storytelling.

The festival's program for 2026 showcases 32 films originating from 16 different countries, including cinematic contributions from Oman, UAE, South Korea, Spain, and Russia. These selections vie for recognition in four competitive segments: International Narrative, Omani Narrative, International Documentary, and Omani Documentary. In addition to film accolades, the festival acknowledges prominent artistic and media personalities from Oman and across the Arab world for their career achievements.

Beyond the screenings and competitions, the festival emphasizes educational growth through various workshops. These sessions are specifically tailored to enhance the capabilities of young Omani filmmakers, covering essential aspects like cinematography and the integration of local folk tales into contemporary cinema. Public engagement is also facilitated through screenings and dialogue sessions, such as the "Biography and Career" series, providing attendees with opportunities to interact with film industry experts. The opening ceremony takes place at the Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex for Culture and Entertainment.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.