Muscat – The curtains rose on the second edition of the European Film Festival 2025 in Muscat on Sunday, ushering in a week-long celebration of cinematic creativity that will run until September 28.

Organised by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth in collaboration with the Omani Film Society, the European Union Delegation to Oman, and the embassies of several European nations, the festival offers an eclectic showcase of 25 films, including two Omani productions and 23 European entries.

The participating European films are presented by the embassies of Austria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, and Spain, bringing together a wide spectrum of genres and cultural narratives from across the continent. The festival aims to deepen cultural exchange and build stronger artistic ties between Oman and Europe through the universal language of film.

Laura bint Saeed al Siyabi, Head of the Cinema Department at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, described the festival as a reflection of the deep-rooted cultural partnership between Oman and the European Union. She noted that the event not only celebrates the art of storytelling but also serves as a vital platform for dialogue and mutual understanding among diverse communities. She highlighted the ministry’s commitment to cultural initiatives that enrich Oman’s creative landscape, enhance community engagement, and position the sultanate on the global cultural map.

Laura stressed that cinema plays a pivotal role in shaping public awareness, connecting people across borders and fostering empathy through shared human experiences.

The festival is further distinguished by an engaging lineup of events accompanying the screenings. These include industry-focused discussions on visual effects and post-production, as well as thematic sessions that delve into Arab-German cinematic collaboration and the evolving role of women in film.

Audiences will also have the opportunity to attend a screening of the documentary Bohol, followed by a conversation with its director, Eduardo Bellino, offering a deeper insight into the filmmaking process.

Aspiring local filmmakers will benefit from a hands-on short film workshop designed to nurture emerging talent. Meanwhile, another session will explore the artistic and technical elements of visual set design, underscoring the craftsmanship that brings cinema to life.

Now in its second year, the European Film Festival continues to grow in scope and ambition, affirming its place as a vibrant cultural event in Oman’s artistic calendar. By bringing together filmmakers, audiences, and creative people from different cultures, the festival aspires to build bridges of understanding and celebrate the diversity of cinematic expression.

The festival is being jointly organised by the International Film Foundation of Oman (IFFO).