IndOman International Film Festival 2026 in Muscat from Feb 2 to 8

MUSCAT, Jan 18
The IndOman International Film Festival (IIFF) 2026 was officially launched with a Curtain Raiser ceremony in Muscat, setting the stage for a landmark celebration of cinema and cultural collaboration between India, Oman and the wider region. Held under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth and in partnership with the Embassy of India in Oman, the festival marks 70 years of India–Oman diplomatic relations and highlights cinema as a powerful bridge for creative exchange and industry partnership.
The ceremony was inaugurated by G V Srinivas, Ambassador of India to Oman, with the Arab Film Industry International Convention theme jointly launched with Agis Loizou, Ambassador of Cyprus and Chair of the EU Group.
Organised by Seventh Art Creations under the leadership of Festival Director Sudha Sha, IIFF 2026 will run from February 2 to 8 in Muscat, featuring international screenings, industry forums, training programmes and co-production opportunities, with a strong focus on collaboration, talent development and positioning Oman as a regional hub for film, culture and creative tourism.
A key highlight of the Curtain Raiser was the launch of the collaborative film programme, Learn & Shoot With Masters — Anthology Initiative, inaugurated by master directors Meera al Macki and Nilanjana Sha, along with Gernot Weidner, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Austria.
The initiative will train over 500 emerging talents across key disciplines of filmmaking, with selected stories moving into production under the guidance of leading filmmakers, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to capacity building and industry development.
The festival will showcase a rich line-up of international and regional films celebrating the India–Oman cultural bond, including special screenings, curated creative programmes and interactive sessions with filmmakers and technicians. Major Indian cinema icons and global industry leaders are expected to participate, alongside producers, studios and cultural organisations, creating new opportunities for co-production, distribution and cross-border collaboration.
IIFF 2026 will also host the Arab Film Industry International Convention, bringing together decision-makers, investors and creatives to explore partnerships across the Arab region, as well as an Oman Short Film Competition for Omani nationals, Indian residents and students. Through cinema, training and industry dialogue, the festival aims to strengthen cultural diplomacy, inspire young filmmakers and position Oman as a vibrant destination for international film production and cultural tourism.