Muscat – Oman Film Society (OFS) is preparing to host a series of film festivals across the sultanate in 2023-24. The initiative aims to encourage and facilitate the younger generation to produce films that cast light on the diverse social and cultural facets of life in Oman.

The festival circuit includes the Batinah International Film Festival, Dakhliyah Film Festival, Al Dhahirah International Film Festival, Salalah Film Festival and Al Sharqiyah International Film Festival, climaxing in the grand Muscat International Film Festival in early 2024. Dates for each festival, barring Batinah International Film Festival, are yet to be announced by OFS.

Emphasising the growing influence of Omani cinema in the Arab world, Jamil al Yaqoobi, Chairman of Al Dhahirah International Film Festival, said, “OFS aims to spotlight stories about our history and culture, conceived and crafted by our own people. Over the past few years, we’ve discovered remarkable talent who we support through workshops and seminars.”

Yaqoobi highlighted the success of Al Dhahirah International Film Festival, scheduled for December, noting that the last edition attracted 175 films from 18 countries. “We were taken aback by the enormous response for a festival in a relatively remote region. We anticipate over 200 entries this year.”

In collaboration with the Office of the Governor of South Batinah, OFS will hold the second edition of the Batinah International Film Festival from November 12 to 15. This year’s theme – ‘Human Relationship with the Land’ – embodies the deep-rooted connection between Oman’s people and their environment.

The festival serves as a launch pad for emerging cinema talent, providing a gateway to global cinematic perspectives, promoting film culture and elevating Omani production standards.

Dr Humaid al Ameri, Chairman of OFS, described the festival as part of a series of events aimed at spreading cinema culture. “The festival not only showcases Oman to the global cinema community but also motivates Omani filmmakers by acknowledging and featuring their work.”

Mohammed bin Abdullah al Ajmi, Director of Batinah International Film Festival, described the event as a unique platform for filmmakers to showcase their creativity and exchange experiences.

“Cinema plays a crucial role in telling stories and strengthening cultural and human connections. The festival unearths talent from Oman and elsewhere,” he added.

Held in January, the Al Sharqiyah International Film Festival saw the participation of nearly 120 films. Anwar al Ruzaiqi, the festival’s director, said the event was a huge success and expects increased participation from the Arab world in the next edition.

OFS regularly conducts workshops on various aspects of filmmaking, including scripting, cinematography, editing and marketing, drawing experts from around the globe to train local talent.