Cairo International Film Festival
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Cairo International Film Festival
Africa's oldest and most prestigious film festival — founded in 1976, recognized by the International Federation of Film Producers. One week of world cinema, red carpets, and Egyptian nights.
What Actually Happens
The Cairo International Film Festival is the oldest and only A-list festival in the Arab world, accredited by the FIAPF since 1976. For ten days each November the city screens more than 150 films from over 60 countries.
Screenings are spread across the Cairo Opera House complex and downtown cinemas, with a competition strand, a Critics’ Week and a strong showing of new Arab cinema.
Tickets for most screenings are inexpensive and open to the public, which makes it an unusually accessible way to see the city’s cultural life up close.
Historical Background
Founded in 1976 by the Egyptian Association of Film Writers and Critics, Cairo was the first festival in Africa and the Arab world to receive FIAPF A-list accreditation — placing it alongside Cannes, Venice and Berlin.
It has hosted Omar Sharif, Sophia Loren, Morgan Freeman and Catherine Deneuve, and remains the region’s most established platform for Arab filmmakers reaching an international audience.
Key Highlights
Day Schedule
Practical Information
Insider Tips
Buy tickets online as soon as the programme is published — gala screenings go quickly.
The Cairo Opera House grounds in Zamalek are the main hub. Base yourself nearby if you can.
Most films screen with English subtitles; Arabic titles are subtitled in English and vice versa.
Dress smartly for evening galas — Egyptians dress up for the Opera House.
Combine the festival with Cairo sightseeing; mornings are free if you pick evening screenings.
How to Get There
See It for Yourself
