Red Sea Film Festival signs partnership with Ansi to support animation
In a strategic move reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to developing its film and creative arts sector, the Red Sea International Film Festival a landmark partnership with the City of Animation and Creative Industries (CITIA), the prestigious organizer of the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in France. This agreement aims to empower and support the animation in the Kingdom and enhance the presence of Saudi talent on the global stage.
Details of the agreement and its objectives
The memorandum of understanding was signed in Jeddah, with Faisal Baltayour, CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation, representing the Saudi side, and Mickaël Marin, CEO of CITIA, signing on behalf of the French side. The agreement, which is valid for three years and renewable, outlines a comprehensive roadmap for developing national talent and expanding international cooperation through active participation in the International Animated Film Market (MIFA).
The context of cultural transformation and the importance of “Ansi”
This partnership comes at a time when the Saudi film sector is experiencing rapid growth under the umbrella of Vision 2030, which places particular emphasis on the creative economy. The Annecy International Animation Film Festival is considered the Cannes of animation globally, being the most important and prestigious event in the field since its inception. Therefore, collaborating with its organizers offers Saudi filmmakers a golden opportunity to engage with leading international experts and move from simply consuming animated content to producing and competing internationally.
Training programs and events in Historic Jeddah
The partnership extends beyond mere organizational aspects to encompass a tangible cultural movement within the Kingdom. The agreement includes an annual program at Jeddah's historic "Culture Square," showcasing a selection of international works from the Annecy Festival. Furthermore, specialized workshops and interactive events will be organized for children and families, contributing to building a knowledgeable audience and fostering a passion for this art form from a young age.
The future of industry: initiatives for 2026 and beyond
The agreement outlined the future through ambitious initiatives that will actually begin in 2026, including:
- Establishing a specialized animation committee within the Red Sea market .
- Launching student and professional exchange programs in cooperation with the professional development system at CITIA.
- Exploring opportunities for co-production to facilitate access for Saudi stories to global markets.
Commenting on the event, Faisal Baltayour emphasized that this partnership represents a qualitative leap for the animation industry locally, noting its role in enhancing Jeddah’s position as a global destination that embraces creators, and opening new windows for cultural and creative exchange between the Kingdom and the world.
