47th Cairo International Film Festival

Founded in 1976, the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) is the oldest film festival in the Arab world and Africa’s only one accredited in the top competitive category by FIAPF. The 47th edition runs from 11 to 20 November 2026, marking 50 years since the festival’s launch, with 145 films from 64 countries. Festival president is actor Hussein Fahmy and artistic director is critic Mohamed Tarek. Most screenings take place in the halls of the Cairo Opera House complex in Zamalek, plus selected cinemas. Tickets for public screenings are inexpensive and sold at Opera House box offices and online; popular titles sell out fast, so book as soon as the daily schedule is released. Industry days and the Cairo Film Connection market run alongside.

Official website

About the festival

The festival’s top award is the Golden Pyramid, presented in the international competition. Alongside the main competition there are usually sections for Arab cinema, short films and restored classics, so the programme covers both new releases and film history.

What to expect

The festival opens and closes with red-carpet galas attended by Egyptian and Arab film stars. Public screenings run through the day and evening in several halls, and many are followed by question-and-answer sessions with directors and actors. Films are usually shown with subtitles; the programme lists the language of each film.

Getting there

The Cairo Opera House grounds are on Gezira Island in Zamalek, right next to Opera metro station on Line 2. Taxis and ride-hailing cars can drop you at the gates. Allow time for security checks at the entrance.

Planning tips

• November evenings in Cairo can be cool, so bring a light jacket.
• Smart-casual dress is fine for regular screenings; galas have their own dress code.
• Arrive early for popular films.
• Book hotels early if you want to stay in Zamalek or Downtown near the venues.