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European film fest returns with 22 films, Omani feature ‘Zayana’

Monday, 15 September 2025 20:45

Muscat – The European Film Festival will return to Muscat from September 21 to 28 at Cinepolis in Oman Avenues Mall, showcasing 22 films from nine European Union countries – Austria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania and Spain. The second edition aims to reflect Europe’s cultural diversity while celebrating both European and […]

Muscat – The European Film Festival will return to Muscat from September 21 to 28 at Cinepolis in Oman Avenues Mall, showcasing 22 films from nine European Union countries – Austria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania and Spain. The second edition aims to reflect Europe’s cultural diversity while celebrating both European and Omani cinema.

Announcing the event at Cinepolis Theatre on Monday, organisers from the International Film Foundation of Oman (IFFO), the European Delegation and Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth outlined this year’s expanded programme. The eight-day festival will feature award-winning films recognised at global platforms including Cannes, the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes.

A highlight this year is the screening of the Omani feature film Zayana, directed by Dr Khalid al Zadjali. Ali al Amri, one of the film’s actors, said, “It is an honour to celebrate one of the best films ever made in Oman. Film festivals are a good cultural exchange where one understands the feelings of one another deeply.”

Beyond film screenings, the festival will host side events designed to encourage learning and collaboration. These include workshops and masterclasses by European directors and industry professionals, offering hands-on training for Omani students and emerging filmmakers.

H E Mark Loelke, Germany’s Ambassador to Oman, said, “This festival will build upon existing strong cultural relations between the EU and Oman. The cultural influence of Europe on Oman is evident through historical ties and modern exchanges in art, language and tourism, making this festival a natural extension of our flourishing partnership.”

Festival coordinator Sudha Sha added, “Movies unite people and we are excited to bring critically acclaimed films that are otherwise difficult to access in commercial cinemas. Last year we screened 15 films. This year, with 22, the festival will be bigger and offer even more opportunities for audiences to enjoy masterpieces from around the world.”

Tickets are priced at RO1 and available at the venue.

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