Under the Theme “Fifty Years… A Story Called Cairo,” Cairo International Film Festival Celebrates Half a Century Since Its Founding
In 1976, Cairo was about to embark on a new cinematic journey. With the flags of 33 countries flying and nearly 100 films participating, the inaugural edition of a festival envisioned by the renowned Egyptian writer and journalist Kamal El Mallakh came to life. Fifty years later, that dream has grown into one of the most significant cinematic events in the Arab world and Africa, bringing together filmmakers and audiences across cultures, languages, and generations.
Under the theme “Fifty Years… A Story Called Cairo,” Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF), presided over by renowned Egyptian actor Hussein Fahmy, celebrates half a century since its founding during its 47th edition, taking place from November 11 to 20, 2026. The celebration revisits a remarkable journey filled with artistic and cultural milestones, distinguished figures who have graced its screens, and unforgettable moments that have become part of Egyptian, Arab, and international cinema history.
Throughout this journey, Cairo has become an important milestone in the careers of countless filmmakers. Some arrived with their debut films and returned years later with international awards and more mature artistic visions. Others stepped onto its stages to receive honors celebrating a lifetime of achievement, while many found in the festival an opportunity to discover new cinematic voices or connect with potential collaborators for future projects. Over time, a rich network of artistic and personal relationships has emerged around the festival, extending far beyond screening venues and strengthening connections between Egyptian cinema and film industries around the world.
Across its successive editions, the festival has presented thousands of films, spanning fiction features, documentaries, and shorts, introducing Egyptian audiences to cinematic experiences and artistic movements from diverse cultures and filmmaking traditions. Its history has also been shaped by visits from prominent actors, directors, critics, and producers, as well as tributes to major figures in Egyptian, Arab, and world cinema. Through its awards, honors, seminars, and encounters, the festival has brought audiences closer to the artists whose work has helped shape the history of the seventh art.
Commenting on the occasion, Hussein Fahmy, President of Cairo International Film Festival, said:
“I feel an immense sense of pride as we celebrate fifty years since the founding of Cairo International Film Festival. Its beginnings were made possible by people who believed that Egypt, with its rich cinematic heritage and cultural standing, deserved an international film festival that would bring the world together on its soil. Today, as we reflect on what has been achieved, we remember with gratitude Kamal El Mallakh and everyone who contributed to establishing the festival, as well as all those who have led it or dedicated their efforts and creativity to preserving its continuity and standing.”
Fahmy added:
“My relationship with Cairo International Film Festival goes back many years, and I understand deeply what this event means to Egyptian filmmakers and the significance of welcoming artists and directors from around the world to Cairo. What gives me the greatest joy today is seeing new generations find their place within the festival, whether by presenting their films or taking part in its programs and activities. Our responsibility to this history is to preserve its value and continue developing the festival in step with the evolution of cinema and its industry, ensuring that Cairo remains a place where creative minds come together and new stories begin.”
This year’s celebration carries particular significance in light of the profound transformations the film industry has undergone over the past five decades, from advances in filmmaking and exhibition technologies to the emergence of new models of production and distribution, alongside the changing relationship between audiences and the screen. Throughout these shifts, Cairo International Film Festival has maintained its commitment to showcasing outstanding international cinema, creating spaces for critical and artistic dialogue, and developing programs that strengthen its connections with filmmakers and audiences while offering emerging talents opportunities for learning, professional exchange, and growth.
The 47th edition continues this approach through a diverse film program and a wide range of professional and cultural activities designed to support the film industry and expand opportunities for collaboration, while providing a platform for the films and projects of emerging generations. This embodies the deeper meaning of celebrating fifty years since the festival’s founding: transforming accumulated experience into a foundation for new creative journeys and ensuring that cinema remains a shared space for dialogue between the past, present, and future.
These are fifty years of films illuminating Cairo’s screens, remarkable figures walking its stages, friendships formed within its halls, and audiences whose passion has given the festival its true spirit, making them essential partners in its success and enduring legacy.
“Fifty Years… A Story Called Cairo.” A story that began with the passion of cinema lovers in Egypt, with each new generation continuing to add its own scene.
About Cairo International Film Festival
Cairo International Film Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the Arab world and Africa, and among the leading international festivals dedicated to the art and industry of cinema. Founded in 1976, the festival is held under the auspices of the Egyptian Ministry of Culture and is accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF).
CIFF continues its commitment to supporting Egyptian and Arab cinema, presenting outstanding international cinematic works, discovering emerging talents, and fostering cultural dialogue and exchange among filmmakers from around the world.
