Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi Inaugurates the 12th Edition of the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth

His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated on Sunday evening the 12th edition of the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF), organised by FUNN to provide an innovative platform that brings together filmmakers and creatives from around the world. The opening ceremony took place at Al Qasimia University Theatre.

During the ceremony, His Highness honoured the artists with the Lifetime Achievement Award in the UAE and the Gulf region. Emirati actor Abdullah Saleh and Saudi actor Abdulmohsen Al Nemer received the award in recognition of their artistic achievements and contributions to drama, theatre, and cinema.

In the youth category, His Highness honored Emirati actor Marwan Abdullah Saleh with the Youth Award—UAE and Hala Al Turk with the Youth Award—Gulf region, while Syrian actor Bassel Khayat received special recognition for his significant impact on the Arab arts scene.

Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of SIFF, delivered the opening speech. She affirmed that the festival reflects Sharjah’s commitment to being a nurturing home for children, a supporter of their talents, and an inspiration for their dreams, in the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and his wife Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, who have worked to make culture a bridge for human development and enlightenment.

Sheikha Jawaher added: “As the festival continues its journey that began 12 years ago, it reminds us that cinema is not only an art of entertainment but also a tool for learning, reflection, and discovery, a platform for exchanging human experiences. This year’s edition features interactive workshops, panel discussions, and inspiring sessions that allow children and youth to express themselves, shape their worlds, and build their dreams on screen.”

She also highlighted that the festival, through its diverse activities, seeks to develop local, Gulf, and Arab cinema and shape its future. The films featured carry the pulse of youth and the determination of creatives who see cinema as a tool for change, expression, and connection between people.

On the international front, Sheikha Jawaher stated: “Through this year’s selection, we look at Korean cinema with all its depth, artistry, and powerful performances, showing how cinema transcends language and cultural boundaries and can become both a vital economic driver and a soft power that reaches across geographies. We also celebrate creative works from Belize, Ecuador, and São Tomé and Príncipe, which are participating in the festival for the first time.”

She revealed that the festival supports several humanitarian initiatives by the Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation, with proceeds from ticket sales going toward efforts to protect and empower vulnerable children, reflecting FUNN’s strong commitment to social responsibility.

Actor Marwan Abdullah Saleh also delivered a speech, saying: “Over the past twelve years, the festival has become a platform for youth and a source of inspiration. It has succeeded in creating an environment that nurtures confidence and supports ambition, enabling young people to pursue their creative paths and become active contributors to the film industry, further strengthening Sharjah’s role as a hub of culture and creativity under its visionary leadership.”

He emphasized the vital role of youth in advancing cinema, describing them as the “makers of the future,” whose innovative ideas turn dreams into visuals, thoughts into scenes, and imagination into reality. He added that through SIFF, their potential is nurtured, their talents developed, and their path to leadership in the field of cinema strengthened.

His Highness the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah also viewed a documentary highlighting the festival’s goals, focusing on developing young talents’ skills in film production, enhancing their understanding of lighting, editing, and directing, and familiarising them with the latest tools and technologies used in global cinema.

His Highness was also introduced to the festival’s jury members, which include 16 directors and film experts, and learned about the festival’s highlights: 74 films selected from 1,740 submissions across 26 countries. The Green Carpet will host three Middle East premieres: The Dutch film “Miss Moxy”, The Korean film “2:15 PM” by director Seryeong Jung, and The Saudi film “Hajir” by director Sarah Taleb.

This year, SIFF celebrates Korean cinema as the Guest of Honour, showcasing a selection of Korean films known for their emotional depth and artistic excellence, offering audiences a chance to explore their history, philosophy, and universal appeal.

The opening ceremony was attended by Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations; Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of SIFF, along with senior officials, filmmakers, artists, and special guests from the cinema industry.