The 11th edition of the Muscat International Film Festival has officially kicked off, bringing a cinematic extravaganza under the theme “Renewed Oman.” The festival boasts a diverse lineup of 23 narrative and documentary films from 11 countries, accompanied by 34 short films. Notably, two Tunisian gems, “El Gotra” by Youness Ben Hajria and “Houdoud allah” by Anis Al-Aswad, are in the running for the top spot in the long international documentary films category.

Beyond the silver screen, the festival is hosting a bustling “Festival Market,” where production companies and artistic platforms converge to foster local and international collaborations, share experiences, and market an array of cinematic creations.

As the festival unfolds, it also takes a moment to honor prominent figures in the film industry, including the talented Omani actress Buthaina Al-Raisi, Bahraini director Ahmed bin Ya’qub Al-Muqalla, and Palestinian director Mohammed Bakri as well as the Iranian director Sitara.