The Omani Film Society has revealed the dates for the much-anticipated eleventh session of the Muscat International Film Festival. The festival, held under the theme “Renewed Oman,” aims to showcase the Sultanate’s unique filming locations, including deserts, mountains, archaeological sites, and valleys, making Oman an exceptional destination for filmmakers under the initiative “Make Your Film in Oman.”
This year’s festival will feature a series of compelling competitions, including the International Feature Film Competition, the International Feature Documentary Film Competition, the Animation Film Competition, the Omani Short Narrative Film Competition, and the Omani Short Documentary Film Competition. Filmmakers worldwide have until January 15 to submit their entries through the festival’s official website: https://miff-festival.org.om/form.
In addition to these thrilling competitions, the festival will host a variety of accompanying events, including seminars and workshops. These sessions are designed to familiarize participants with the procedures necessary to obtain filming licenses in Oman, in collaboration with relevant authorities. Furthermore, attendees can partake in courses related to the cinematic field.
Dr. Hamid Al Ameri, President of the Festival, expressed his commitment to the continuation of the Muscat International Film Festival, emphasizing its significance as a pioneering cinematic platform in the region. Despite various challenges, the Omani Cinema Society’s Board of Directors remains dedicated to preserving and organizing this prestigious event, recognizing the profound impact cinema has on its audience.
Director Ammar Al Ibrahim shed light on the festival’s theme, “Renewed Oman,” aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s goals of sustainable investment in heritage, culture, and arts for national economic growth. This edition aims to enhance media and community engagement with the festival, paving the way for regional and international film-related companies and institutions to view Oman as a prime cinematic production destination. Oman’s geographical and cultural diversity offers a plethora of production options, fostering collaboration between local and international entities, ultimately elevating Omani creativity on the global stage. The Muscat Film Festival serves as a catalyst for Omani cinematic talents, marking the beginning of a promising journey for many in the industry.
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