Egypt's Film Festivals Might Soon Move Under One Union

Plans to establish a Union of Egyptian Film Festivals have moved forward following a meeting hosted by the Syndicate of Film Professions, where organisers agreed to begin drafting the organisational framework for the new body.

The proposed union will operate under the syndicate's umbrella, with the aim of strengthening cooperation between festivals, exchanging expertise and supporting the development of Egypt's film festival landscape.

The meeting brought together representatives from the Luxor African Film Festival, Aswan International Women Film Festival, Alexandria Short Film Festival, Cairo Short Film Festival, Hurghada Film Festival, Fayoum Film Festival and Port Said Film Festival. Syndicate head and director Mossad Fouda said a unified body would help festivals address common challenges, raise professional standards and reinforce their contribution to Egyptian cinema as part of the country's cultural influence.

Participants said the proposed union would also promote coordination between festivals, encourage knowledge sharing and support greater transparency in the sector. They stressed that it would complement—not replace—existing official and civil institutions, while supporting government efforts to develop Egypt's cinema and cultural industries.

Membership will be open to Egyptian film festivals that align with the union's objectives and principles, with organisers aiming to create a collaborative platform that strengthens the sector and supports its continued growth.