Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
The Red Sea International Film Festival has signed a major three-year partnership with CITIA, the organizer of the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, to support and grow the animation industry in Saudi Arabia. The agreement was signed in Jeddah by Red Sea Film Foundation CEO Faisal Baltyuor and CITIA CEO Mickaël Marin. The partnership aims to help Saudi animation talent shine globally and strengthen the Kingdom’s presence in the international animation market.
Starting in 2026, the partnership will introduce several important initiatives. One key focus is developing Saudi talent by offering opportunities for professional networking, skill-building, and exchanging ideas with global experts. The collaboration will also open doors for more international partnerships and creative projects between Saudi creators and industry professionals worldwide.
Another major initiative includes launching an annual program at Culture Square in Historic Jeddah. The event will feature selected works from the Annecy Festival, along with workshops, screenings and family-friendly activities. This program will give local audiences access to top-quality global animation and inspire young creators across the Kingdom.
The partnership also plans to introduce training workshops and exchange programs supported by CITIA’s worldwide network. These programs will help Saudi artists gain hands-on experience and learn from leaders in the animation field. By providing access to global knowledge and industry standards, the initiative aims to build a strong and competitive animation sector in Saudi Arabia.
Through this long-term collaboration, the Red Sea Film Festival continues to support creative industries in the Kingdom while helping young animators grow, connect and succeed on the world stage.
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