Festival Program
Workshops
Our workshops are designed to nurture creativity, technical skills, and storytelling abilities in filmmakers at all stages of their careers. From screenwriting and directing to cinematography and post-production, participants gain hands-on experience led by seasoned industry professionals. Each session is crafted to inspire innovation, spark collaboration, and equip emerging Arab filmmakers with the practical tools they need to bring their visions to life.
Mentorship and Training Programs
IAFFA mentorship programs pair emerging talent with established filmmakers, producers, and industry experts. These one on one or small group sessions provide guidance on career development, project strategy, and navigating the global film industry. Our structured training programs ensure participants build both artistic and professional skills, fostering the next generation of Arab filmmakers with confidence and industry insight.
Talent Exchange
Through our talent exchange initiatives, the festival facilitates collaboration between Arab filmmakers and Australian cinema professionals. Participants gain opportunities to work on cross-cultural projects, share creative perspectives, and expand their professional networks internationally. This exchange enriches storytelling, promotes cultural dialogue, and opens pathways for global co-productions and partnerships.
Industry Networking
The festival offers curated networking events, panel discussions, and industry meet-ups designed to connect filmmakers, producers, distributors, and festival programmers. These sessions create invaluable opportunities to pitch projects, explore collaborations, and discover investment possibilities. By bridging local and international cinema communities, we ensure participants leave with meaningful connections that advance their careers.
Curated Film Screenings
Our curated screenings celebrate the richness and diversity of Arab cinema. Each selection highlights compelling narratives, innovative storytelling, and exceptional filmmaking from the Arab world. Screenings are complemented by Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and audience interactions, creating an immersive experience that connects filmmakers with audiences and fosters dialogue on cultural, social, and artistic themes.
Sample Schedule
Friday, November 1
Opening Night Gala: The Last Night
Layla Hassan
Saturday, November 2
Desert Roads
Omar Khalil
Short Film Program 1
Various
Voices of the City
Sara Mansour
Sunday, November 3
Documentary: Threads of Memory
Fatima Al-Qasimi
Between Two Shores
Ahmed Nasser
Industry Panel: The Future of Arab Cinema
Panel Discussion
Full schedule released October 2025
Venues
Palace Cinema Central
Sydney
Premium cinema with state-of-the-art projection and sound
123 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Dendy Opera Quays
Sydney
Boutique cinema with stunning harbour views
2 East Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000
ACMI Cinema
Melbourne
Australia's national museum of screen culture
Fed Square, Melbourne VIC 3000
Classic Cinemas
Melbourne
Historic art house cinema since 1910
9 Gordon Street, Elsternwick VIC 3185