From Sweden to the Arab World: Malmö arab film Festival Launches Preparations for “Industry Days” and the 17th Edition
The eyes of filmmakers and cultural enthusiasts are turning toward Sweden, as the Malmö Arab Film Festival (MAFF) foundation officially announced the dates for its 17th edition, set to take place from April 23 to 29, 2027. This announcement signals the official start of preparations for a new edition of what is widely recognized as the largest platform for Arab cinema in Europe and a vital cultural bridge connecting the Arab world with the Nordic region.
Over a Decade and a Half of Fostering Art and Cultural Dialogue
Since its inception in 2011, MAFF has successfully transformed cinema into a universal language of dialogue that transcends geographical borders. For over 16 years, the festival has solidified its international standing as a hub that unites filmmakers, audiences, and cinematic institutions from across the globe, playing a pivotal role in:
Introducing contemporary Arab cinema to European audiences.
Opening innovative horizons for collaboration between creators in the Arab world and Europe.
Promoting the values of cultural diversity and artistic exchange.
The 17th edition promises to build on this momentum by presenting a rich and diverse cinematic program. It will spotlight the latest productions in feature films, documentaries, and short films, alongside a curated lineup of seminars, cultural panel discussions, and professional networking events designed to deepen artistic dialogue among industry stakeholders.
MAFF Industry Days: The Compass for Co-Production
In parallel with the public screenings, the festival foundation unveiled the schedule for the highly anticipated MAFF Industry Days, taking place from April 24 to 27, 2027.
Serving as the professional and commercial arm of the festival, these days will bring together a select group of:
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Filmmakers and producers.
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International distributors and sales agents.
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Representatives from film funds and institutions across the Arab world, Europe, and the Nordic countries.
This professional platform aims to nurture ambitious film projects, create tangible co-production opportunities, and forge sustainable international partnerships.
Mouhamad Keblawi: Cinema is a Bridge Beyond Borders and Languages
Commenting on the occasion, Mouhamad Keblawi, founder of the festival and CEO of the Malmö Arab Film Festival Foundation, emphasized the event’s strategic vision: “Since founding the festival in 2011, our ultimate goal has been to make cinema a bridge for dialogue and understanding between cultures, and to provide an independent, sustainable platform that allows audiences in Sweden and Europe to discover the richness and diversity of contemporary Arab cinema.”
Keblawi added: “Today, we take pride in the fact that MAFF has become an internationally recognized annual destination for audiences, filmmakers, and partners alike. We look forward to the 17th edition being a new milestone that opens even broader horizons. We are ready to welcome our guests in April 2027 to celebrate the power of cinema and its ability to convey human stories that transcend borders and languages.”
