Muscat – The European Union Film Festival is set to return to Muscat for its highly anticipated second edition, promising a vibrant celebration of European and Omani cinema. The festival will run from September 21 to 28 at Cinepolis in Oman Avenue Mall.

The festival dates were announcement at a press conference hosted by the German Embassy on Thursday. The festival will feature 22 films from nine EU countries – Austria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania and Spain. Organisers said the event aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding through cinema.

A highlight of the festival is inclusion of Zayana, the latest Omani feature film by Dr Khalid al Zadjali. Organisers noted that its screening reflects the growing collaboration between the EU and Oman in cultural fields. The line-up will also include internationally acclaimed titles, some of which have been screened at Cannes, the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes.

In addition to film screenings, the programme will host side events such as masterclasses and workshops by European filmmakers and industry professionals. These will provide training opportunities for students and young Omani filmmakers. Children’s cinema, weekend screenings of additional films, film-curating sessions and post-screening discussions are also part of the schedule.

The opening ceremony will be held on September 21 and the closing night on September 28 at Cinepolis.

H E Mark Loelke, Ambassador of Germany to Oman, said, “This festival builds upon existing strong cultural relations between the EU and Oman. Cultural diversity is a cornerstone of the EU’s identity, and initiatives like this film festival are vital tools to enhance relations. The cultural influence of Europe on Oman is evident through historical ties and modern exchanges in art, language and tourism, making this festival a natural extension of a flourishing partnership.”

Sudha Sha, festival coordinator, said, “Movies unite people and we are happy to bring some of the best films that were critically acclaimed at Cannes, Berlin and the Oscars. It is tough to get to see these films in normal theatres and here we are in for a great chance to see these masterpieces.”

She added that this year’s edition has expanded to 22 films compared to 15 last year.

The festival’s poster was also unveiled at the press conference.