With the growing number of film festivals around the world, these events are no longer limited to screening films only. They have evolved to play a vital role in building an integrated film industry ecosystem, influencing culture, and reshaping the creative life of host cities. This raises an important question: how do festivals contribute to stimulating local and global film production, expanding participation, funding, and distribution?

It has become common for film festivals to include programs that go beyond screenings, such as workshops, funding initiatives, co-production forums, and project pitching sessions. This approach creates an environment that brings together filmmakers, distributors, and producers in one place, fostering cross-border collaboration and production.

For example, the "Asian Film Academy" (AFA), organized by the Busan International Film Festival, is a leading model of this trend. The program brings together young Asian talents to develop their skills and build networks within the regional film industry.

Major festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Toronto, and Sundance have proven that a festival can be a media and economic hub that drives national production and draws global attention to local talents. The support funds associated with these festivals play a key role, such as:

These funds not only provide financial support but also offer workshops, educational programs, and initiatives that promote the sustainability of local production and its global distribution.

In this global context, the Red Sea International Film Festival, held in Jeddah, stands out as an ambitious Saudi initiative placing cinema at the heart of cultural transformation. With its slogan "Waves of Change," the festival plays a strategic role in developing the local and Arab film landscape.

The festival goes beyond screenings to include impactful production and educational initiatives. Among its key programs:

These efforts place the festival on the map of influential global festivals and position Jeddah as a regional hub for film production and innovation.

The Red Sea Film Festival is a prime example of how festivals can transform into productive and cultural bridges between East and West. By supporting talent, providing production opportunities, and connecting local and international filmmakers, the festival strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as an active player in the global film industry.