Muscat – Oman Film Society has announced the schedule for the second International Women and Children’s Film Festival set to take place from December 4 to 6.

The event is a significant platform aimed at promoting Omani women in the cinema world, establishing a dedicated children’s film fest, discovering new talent, and showcasing Oman as a key destination for filmmaking, tourism and the arts.

Khitam al Said, director of the festival, highlighted its growing prominence both locally and internationally. She emphasised the festival’s commitment to presenting films that celebrate women’s roles in society across different cultures.

“Additionally, the festival endeavours to craft a vibrant space for children’s cinema, offering a unique artistic perspective into the world of childhood with its myriad of symbols, fantasies and narratives.”

This year, the festival has attracted 85 submissions from 14 countries, out of which 39 – 31 feature films and eight documentaries – have been selected for screening.

The feature films will vie for awards in categories such as Best International Feature Film, Best Omani Feature Film, Best Screenplay and Special Jury Award. Similarly, the documentaries will compete for awards including Best International Documentary Film, Best Omani Documentary Film, Best Screenplay and Special Jury Award.

The jury panel for feature films comprises director Nujoom al Ghanem from the United Arab Emirates, director Aisha al Rifai from Saudi Arabia and artist Nour al Huda al Ghamaria from Oman. For documentary films, the jury includes director Marwa al Sharqawi from Egypt, Dr Azza al Qassabiya and Laura al Siyabiyah from Oman.

The festival’s agenda includes film screenings, special children’s movies, interactive sessions and workshops, such as ‘Make Your Own Documentary Film’ conducted by director Marwa al Sharqawi. Guests will also enjoy guided tours of Muscat governorate.

The opening ceremony of the festival at Oman Film Society headquarters will feature the screening of ‘Clouds’ by director Muzna al Musafer and a special segment dedicated to Palestine.

The festival will also celebrate female artists and directors known for their unique cinematic contributions. Special activities and dedicated spaces for children be a part of the festival’s offerings.