Red Sea International Film Festival 2025 to be held with participation of Pakistani artists
The fifth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival was held in the historic and picturesque area of Al Balad in Jeddah yesterday.
According to details, this occasion proved to be an important milestone not only in the history of the festival but also for Pakistan as for the first time, the national flag of Pakistan was hoisted at this international film festival. Pakistan is being represented on this prestigious international platform by three prominent and veteran creative personalities, Atiqa Odho, Tasheeeq Haider and Shahzad Nawaz, who will also participate in a special panel discussion during the event.
This historic moment not only opens a new chapter of confidence in Pakistan’s film journey but also further strengthens Pakistan’s presence in the global cinematic landscape. This international film festival, which will continue from December 4 to 13, 2025, began with the grand world premiere of Rowan Athale’s film “Giant”. This biographical drama effectively portrays the life, struggles and extraordinary achievements of British-Yemeni boxing legend Prince Naseem Hameed.
The Red Sea International Film Festival kicked off this year with a stellar lineup of 111 films, including 38 international films from over 45 countries – a diversity that reflects the festival’s global reach and cinematic quality. This year’s main competition jury is headed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Shane Baker, while the jury includes prominent and influential filmmakers from the Middle East, Asia, Europe and other regions of the world.
In a short span of five years, the Red Sea International Film Festival has rapidly become one of the most influential and high-quality film festivals in the Middle East and is playing a significant role in strengthening the region’s creative economy.
This edition has a special focus on key aspects such as active audience participation, training of young filmmakers, wider industry networking and global awards season.
The Pakistani delegation will also participate in a keynote panel discussion on December 9. Pakistan’s participation in this prestigious festival, especially the hoisting of the national flag for the first time and the participation of the Pakistani delegation in the event, is a significant cultural milestone. This development not only highlights Pakistan’s growing identity in the global cinematic landscape but also provides a strong testimony to the recognition of Pakistani talent on rapidly emerging international platforms.
Through their meaningful presence and insightful discussions, Atiqa Odho, Shahzad Nawaz and Taqi Haider will clearly present to the world Pakistan’s commitment to storytelling, creative expression and intercultural cooperation.
Furthermore, the delegation also paid tribute to the important role of Nousheen Ahmed Waseem of Hue Works, who worked tirelessly and provided key services to make the Pakistani delegation’s participation in the festival possible. This collaboration is an example of the kind of strong international connections that further brighten the future of Pakistan’s creative industries.
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