9th El Gouna Film Festival

This event has ended. Dates for the next edition will be added here once they are announced.

Launched in 2017, the El Gouna Film Festival has quickly become one of the most glamorous dates on the Arab cinema calendar, combining a serious competition programme with red carpets on the Red Sea. The ninth edition ran from 15 to 23 October 2026, with feature, documentary and short film competitions, a strong showing of new Arab films and the expanded CineGouna platform supporting projects in development. Screenings take place at the Conference and Culture Center and open-air venues around the resort’s marina. Public tickets and accreditation are available through the festival website; screenings are usually affordable, while gala events are by invitation. Hotels in El Gouna book up well in advance during festival week, so plan early.

Official website

About the festival

The festival was founded by Egyptian businessman Naguib Sawiris together with his brother Samih Sawiris, whose company developed the resort town of El Gouna. From the start it has aimed to support Arab filmmakers as well as to present international cinema, and it has become a key meeting point for the region’s film industry.

What to expect

Days are filled with screenings, panels and industry meetings, while evenings bring premieres and red-carpet arrivals. Many films are presented by their directors and casts, with discussions after the screenings. The audience is a mix of film professionals, journalists, celebrities and holidaymakers staying in the resort.

Getting there

El Gouna lies on the Red Sea coast north of Hurghada. Most visitors fly into Hurghada International Airport, a short drive away by taxi or hotel transfer. Within El Gouna, shuttle buses, tuk-tuks and boats link the different parts of the resort.

Planning tips

• October is still warm on the Red Sea, so pack light clothes and swimwear.
• Bring a smarter outfit if you plan to attend evening events.
• Check the schedule daily, as screening times can change.