160 Exhibitors from 45 Countries to Map out Film Industry Trends at Red Sea Souk

The Red Sea Souk, part of the Red Sea International Film Festival, is one of the Arab world’s largest specialized film markets and is set to welcome more than 160 exhibitors representing over 45 countries in its fifth edition.

 This year’s Souk runs from December 6 to 10 and features a 20% increase in exhibition pavilions compared with last year, reflecting Saudi Arabia's growing international footprint in the film industry.

 The Souk is anticipated to offer a wide range of activities bringing together emerging talent, filmmakers, and regional and international industry leaders. The program will feature extensive panel discussions, workshops, and training sessions held alongside the Souk Project Market to support professional development and strengthen co-production opportunities.

 The Souk Talks program returns with curated high-level conversations offering in-depth perspectives on global cinema, featuring leading international players in broadcasting, production, and distribution. Discussions will address key issues shaping today’s film industry, including the role of AI, the rapid expansion of Saudi audiences, the landscape of co-production, and the interest of funding bodies in new projects.

 The program will host a select group of leaders and experts from major regional and international film and media companies and platforms, spanning production, distribution, broadcasting, cultural support, and organisations specialised in content development and filmmaking. Their participation is set to enrich discussions and offer substantive insights into the industry’s future.

 The Souk will also allow selected industry partners to stage their own specialised sessions within the program, showcasing new initiatives and highlighting the latest industry developments in their respective areas.