Alexandria International Contemporary Cinema Days (1)

Festival start: 20 December 2025      Festival end: 23 December 2025

It is an independent festival dedicated to supporting independent, short, and documentary films from Egypt and around the world.

Our goal is to provide a platform for every filmmaker to screen their films in a safe and well-equipped venue, in addition to workshops, panel discussions, distribution opportunities, and participation in international programs.

We believe in the power of independent cinema to express new ideas and to build a community of Arab and international filmmakers in Alexandria, the city of cinema and arts.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions for Filmmakers

1. Is there a film submission fee?

No, there is a film submission fee, but please note that this is for a limited period, specifically the first week after submissions open. After that, there will be a submission fee, and payments will be processed through the Festhome platform.

2. Can I get an explanation for why my film wasn't selected?

Yes, we provide brief feedback as time allows, but not for all films.

3. Can I submit more than one film?

Yes, each film requires a separate submission fee.

4. Do you accept graduation or student films?

Yes, provided they meet the technical requirements.

5. Can I submit films that have been screened at other festivals?

Yes, as long as they haven't been shown for free online.

6. Are there any discounts or exemptions?

Yes, in very special cases after direct communication (students, humanitarian projects, countries affected by war).

7. Is attendance mandatory?

No, but it increases the chances of participating in seminars and sessions.

8. Does the festival provide accommodation or travel?

No, but it offers hotel discounts and logistical support.

9. What is the difference between the Egyptian and international submissions?

The only difference is the currency; the technical treatment is the same.

The application fees aim to ensure the festival's continued operation as an independent and open space for filmmakers from Egypt and around the world, free from commercial funding that imposes content restrictions or limits freedom of choice.

The fees are used solely for:

Viewing and evaluating hundreds of films by a specialized committee

Management and technical staff salaries

Equipping the independent screening room

Supporting free film workshops for participants

Providing invitations to attend selected filmmakers

We believe that independent cinema deserves a festival that genuinely supports it, and therefore we have kept the application fees very low compared to international festivals, so that the opportunity remains accessible to everyone.

The application fees are not for profit, but rather a small contribution to ensure the festival's continuity, independence, and quality.

We have a strong selection of special programs, including:

“Short Film Evolution” Program: Screening of 5 short films + discussion on the evolution of independent cinema globally.

“Egyptian Indie Night” Program: A full night of Egyptian films.

“New Voices” Program: Hosting 3-4 directors making their Egyptian debut.

“European Micro-Docs Showcase” Program: 5 European short documentaries.

“Meet the Distributor” Program: A session moderated by film distributors.

We provide film distribution opportunities to a number of festivals and platforms.

In addition, we are establishing an annual exhibition for independent filmmakers, called the Alexandria Independent Cinema Exhibition (AICS).

Cash Prizes: 5,000$

Best Egyptian Short Film

Best Egyptian Documentary Film

Best Arab Film

Best International Film

Audience Award (Choice of the Audience)

Plus cash prizes ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 USD

1. General Conditions

The festival accepts short films, documentaries, experimental films, and video art.

Short film duration: 1–30 minutes

Short documentary film duration: Up to 30 minutes

The festival accepts only independent films; commercial films are not accepted.

2. Year of Production

Films produced between 2022 and 2025 only

3. language and subtitles

All films not in Arabic must have english subtitles

4. Ownership and Rights

The applicant must be the rights holder of the film or an official representative of its creators

The festival is not responsible for any intellectual property disputes

5. Screening at the Festival

The festival reserves the right to screen the film once or twice during the event

The festival reserves the right to use up to 30 seconds of the film for promotional purposes

6. Required Version for Screening

Acceptable Formats: MP4 / MOV

Quality: H.264 – 1080p

A download link can be submitted via Vimeo or Google Drive

7. Participation and Attendance

The festival offers invitations and free attendance to selected filmmakers

Accommodation and airfare are not provided, but hotel discounts are available