Muscat – Oman Film Society continues to build its international profile, with its chairman Mohammed bin Abdullah al Ajmi serving on the jury of the 21st Kazan International Film Festival ‘Altyn Minbar’, held in Kazan, capital of Russia’s Republic of Tatarstan, from September 5 to 9.

The festival, regarded as one of the region’s leading cinematic events, received 845 submissions from 67 countries this year, underscoring its global reach and competitiveness.

Ajmi is serving on the jury for both feature and short films alongside international filmmakers, including Indian sound designer Resul Pookutty, known for the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire; Egyptian director and writer Magdy Ahmed Ali; Nigerian filmmaker and Africa International Film Festival founder Chioma Ude; and award-winning Russian director Natalia Gugueva. Jury members also include filmmakers from Iran, China, Uzbekistan, and the Philippines.

Expressing his pride in representing Oman, Ajmi said, “This participation is a valuable opportunity to strengthen collaboration with filmmakers worldwide, contribute to the development of Omani cinema, and support national talent in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040.”

The participation reflects ongoing efforts by the Oman Film Society to forge cultural and creative partnerships with international festivals and institutions, further solidifying the presence of Omani cinema on the global stage.