Red Sea Film Festival 2025: Jeddah’s Global Cinema Spotlight

Red Sea Film Festival 2025: Jeddah Hosts Global Stars and Emerging Filmmakers

The Red Sea International Film Festival takes place each December in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s historic Al Balad district. As of June 2025 Faisal Baltyuor serves as CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation, the body that runs the festival. Globally, the festival sits alongside the industry‑leading events such as the Cannes Film Festival (France), the Venice International Film Festival (Italy), and the Berlin International Film Festival (Germany) as one of the major international film‑festival destinations.

Where Is It Held?

The Red Sea International Film Festival is held in Jeddah, on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, in the historic Al Balad district. The venue provides a blend of heritage architecture and modern screening facilities. First launched in 2019 (with a delayed inaugural edition due to the pandemic), the festival takes place each December (the 5th edition is scheduled from 4‑13 December 2025).

Who Is the CEO?

As of 1 June 2025, Faisal Baltyuor was officially appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Red Sea Film Foundation. The Foundation oversees the festival, a film fund, and year‑round talent development initiatives. He replaces earlier leadership and signals the Foundation’s next phase of growth and global ambition.