Ammon News - North Al Batinah Governorate is gearing up to host the 3rd Al Batinah International Film Festival, set to take place from October 27 to 30, 2025. The event is organized by the Oman Film Society in collaboration with the Office of the Governor of North Al Batinah, and will feature a diverse lineup of 319 films representing 33 countries—underscoring Oman’s growing reputation as an emerging hub for international cinema.

Festival organizers revealed that the selection includes 309 narrative and documentary films from both local and international filmmakers—208 narrative films and 91 documentaries—alongside 28 Omani productions, comprising 15 narrative films and 13 documentaries. This reflects a flourishing local film scene and ongoing support for national talent.

A notable addition to this year's edition is the inclusion of artificial intelligence-generated films, with 18 AI films slated for screening, including 8 from Omani creators. The festival will also highlight 15 films produced by Omani institutions, 13 of which come from the public sector and 2 from private companies, reaffirming the role of national institutions in nurturing and supporting filmmakers.

Organized with the aim of fostering cultural and artistic exchange, the festival also seeks to promote the “Make Your Film in Oman” initiative, positioning the Sultanate as a natural open-air studio and a compelling destination for international film production. The initiative is expected to enhance Oman’s presence on the global cinematic map and attract major production companies to the region.