His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the 12th Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF) at Al Qasimia University Theatre on Sunday evening.
Organised by FUNN, the festival serves as a creative platform connecting filmmakers and young audiences from around the world.
During the opening ceremony, Sheikh Sultan honoured artists from across the region with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Emirati actor Abdullah Saleh and Saudi actor Abdulmohsen Al Nemer received recognition for their contributions to Gulf drama and cinema, while Syrian actor Abed Fahed was honoured at the Middle East level.
In the Youth category, Emirati actor Marwan Abdullah Saleh received the UAE-level Youth Award, Bahraini artist Hala Al Turk was recognised at the Gulf level, and Syrian actor Basel Khayat was presented with a special award for his impact on Arab cinema.
Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of SIFF, said the festival embodies Sharjah’s vision to be “a nurturing home for children and an inspiration for their dreams.” She highlighted the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah and Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi for using culture as a bridge for enlightenment and human development.
“This year’s edition features workshops, discussions, and sessions that help young people express themselves, build their worlds on screen, and see cinema as a force for learning and reflection,” she said.
She added that SIFF aims to advance Gulf and Arab cinema, promoting stories that “carry the pulse of youth and the determination of creatives who see film as a tool for change and connection.”
This year’s Guest of Honour is Korean cinema, recognised for its artistic depth and global influence. The festival also welcomes first-time participants from Belize, Ecuador, and São Tomé and Príncipe.
Reinforcing its social responsibility, SIFF announced that proceeds from ticket sales will support the Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation, aiding vulnerable children worldwide.
Actor Marwan Abdullah Saleh said the festival has become “a platform that nurtures confidence and ambition,” empowering young people to pursue creative careers and contribute to Sharjah’s cultural growth.
His Highness also viewed a short documentary on SIFF’s goals, showcasing its focus on developing young talents in lighting, editing, directing, and production.
The festival’s jury includes 16 film experts who shortlisted 74 films from 1,740 global submissions representing 26 countries. Three Middle East premieres will feature on the Green Carpet — Miss Moxy (Netherlands), 2:15 PM (Korea), and Hajir (Saudi Arabia).
The event was also attended by Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations, senior officials, filmmakers, and cinema professionals.
