Muscat International Film Festival Kicks Off its 11th Edition

he Muscat International Film Festival (MIIFF) honors a number of directors and international and local cinema stars (Oman News Agency)
he Muscat International Film Festival (MIIFF) honors a number of directors and international and local cinema stars (Oman News Agency)
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Muscat International Film Festival Kicks Off its 11th Edition

he Muscat International Film Festival (MIIFF) honors a number of directors and international and local cinema stars (Oman News Agency)
he Muscat International Film Festival (MIIFF) honors a number of directors and international and local cinema stars (Oman News Agency)

The 11th Muscat International Film Festival (MIIFF) has kicked off in Oman with the slogan “Renewed Oman,” showcasing 23 films from 11 countries.

Running until March 7, the festival aims to promote global collaboration in cinema and highlight Omani and Arab filmmaking talents.

According to festival director Ammar Al-Ibrahim, films from Oman, the Arab world, and beyond help foster understanding and cultural exchange.

They provide a platform for directors and writers to express their visions.

The festival features 23 feature films and 34 short films, including works from Omani filmmakers.

It also includes a Festival Market for industry players to network and promote their projects.

Notable figures being honored at the festival include directors from Iran, Oman, Palestine, and Bahrain.

The festival also aims to showcase Oman’s diverse landscapes to international filmmakers.

Established in 2002, the MIIF is running its 11th edition and is considered one of the earliest film festivals in the Gulf region.



‘Saudi Winter’ Features 1,000 Events for Unforgettable Experiences

 Riyadh hosts the world’s largest winter entertainment events (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Riyadh hosts the world’s largest winter entertainment events (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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‘Saudi Winter’ Features 1,000 Events for Unforgettable Experiences

 Riyadh hosts the world’s largest winter entertainment events (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Riyadh hosts the world’s largest winter entertainment events (Asharq Al-Awsat)

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) launched the “Saudi Winter” events calendar on Saturday, highlighting seven key destinations across the kingdom.

Visitors from around the world can enjoy over 1,000 experiences and events, along with more than 500 special offers.

The Saudi Winter calendar includes events and activities scheduled to take place in 7 destinations: Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, the Red Sea, the Eastern Province, Madinah, and Hail.

The events will run from October 2024 until the end of the first quarter of 2025.

Moreover, the Winter calendar includes several outstanding events and seasons, such as Riyadh Season, Diriyah Season, AlUla Season, Madinah Season, and the Jeddah Calendar.

Additionally, it features special experiences such as the Dakar Rally, MDL Beast, Saudi Cruise, and the Islamic Arts Biennale. It also includes hiking trails, camps and caravans in winter destinations.

The Visit Saudi platform provides more details on the Saudi Winter Program 2024-2025, special offers, promotions and packages. The first phase of the program involves more than 50 offers in collaboration with private sector partners.

Recently, the Minister of Tourism and the STA’s Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb, announced the launch of the Program, during a workshop with tourism stakeholders to discuss the recent achievements, goals and challenges.

“With the unwavering support of the Kingdom’s leadership to the tourism sector, and with the efforts of the tourism sector and private sector partners, we launch the Saudi Winter calendar, as part of the Saudi Winter Program,” he said.

“This raises our hopes and aspirations to achieve new remarkable milestones, underscoring our efforts to attract more tourists through the ongoing campaigns that target local and international markets,” added Al-Khateeb.

On this occasion, the CEO of the STA, Fahd Hamidaddin, emphasized the progress of Saudi tourism, highlighting the recent accomplishments and record-breaking figures.

He also invited tourists from around the world to enjoy the Saudi Winter program, which has tripled the number of events and activities compared to last year, and offers unprecedented packages and offers that suit various categories of tourists.