Based in the coastal resort city on the Red Sea, the El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) was launched in 2017 to showcase a diverse selection of films for a passionate and knowledgeable audience and to foster better communication between different cultures through filmmaking. The festival hosts the CineGouna platform — a creative and business hub that supports Arab talents through various meetings with industry key names, as well as organizing workshops, panels, masterclasses, film markets, project development, and co-production platforms.

Leadership Shuffle: In April 2026, the festival appointed Andrew Mohsen, previously the festival’s head of programming, as the new Artistic Director. He replaced filmmaker Marianne Khoury, who led the festival for three editions before stepping down in early 2026.
Youssef Chahine Centenary: The eighth edition marked the start of a year-long tribute to the legendary filmmaker, featuring a special restoration and screening of his masterpiece, CAIRO STATION.
Yousra Retrospective: A major exhibition titled ‘50 Years of Yousra’ celebrated the Egyptian icon’s five-decade career, showcasing personal mementos and iconic costumes.
Lifetime Achievement: Acclaimed Egyptian actress Menna Shalaby was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her two-decade contribution to cinema.
CineGouna: The industry arm provided over $300,000 in grants to various regional projects. CineGouna Emerge: The talent incubator for young creatives that sorted the selected participants into one of three tracks designed to develop their on or off-camera skills.
GFF 2026: The ninth edition of the GFF is scheduled for October 15th to 23rd.