The 16th edition of the Malmö Arab Film Festival (MAFF 2026) spotlights the rise of Saudi films on the global cinema map through the “Arabian Nights” program, sponsored by Saudi Film Nights initiative.
Running from April 7-17, 2026, the Arabian Nights program screens a collection of Saudi films, including “Hijra” by director Shahd Ameen – the Kingdom’s 2026 Oscar submission.
It also displays “Salma and the Moon” by Ahd Kamel, “The Constraint” by Hossam El-Helwah, “Ambulance” by Colin Teague, and “A Matter of Life and Death” by Anas Ba-Tahaf.
These films are part of a cinematic tour across Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Norway, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
In addition to film screenings, the program features active engagement of Saudi filmmakers in specialized panel discussions on the sidelines of the event.
These sessions are designed to foster dialogue and cultural exchange, expand distribution opportunities, and build new production partnerships. Thereby, they support the sustainable growth of the Saudi film sector and enhance its global reach.
The “Arab Nights” program, launched by the Saudi Film Commission in collaboration with the Malmö Arab Film Festival as part of its participation in the festival, represents a continuation of its efforts to expand the international presence of Saudi films.
The program will travel… pic.twitter.com/X1OKyIbSHj
— هيئة الأفلام (@FilmMOC) April 13, 2026
Furthermore, the MAFF 2026, taking place from April 10-16, honors renowned Saudi filmmaker Abdullah Al Muheisen, in recognition of his leading cinematic career and pivotal role in the emergence of Saudi cinema.
On this occasion, the MAFF hosts a special screening of Al-Muhaisen’s landmark documentary “Assassination of a City”– one of his most significant works, as well as a Masterclass with Abdullah Al-Muhaisen, where he discusses his extensive artistic journey and cinematic philosophy.
Saudi Film Commission CEO Abdullah Al-Qahtani highlighted the participation in MAFF 2026 as a strategic platform for boosting the presence of Saudi cinema in Europe and introducing national talents to a diverse international audience.
It also serves as an opportunity to build high-level partnerships with key decision-makers in the global film industry, he added.
