Al Ard Film Festival is organised by Associazione Amicizia Sardegna Palestina, a volunteering organization founded in 1997 in Dolianova, Cagliari, Sardinia.

Al Ard Film Festival is a unique cultural event that aims to shed light on the issues facing Palestine and the Arab world. Through the medium of film, the festival provides a platform for people to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultures, struggles, and lives of those living in these regions.

The festival is organized by the volunteer members of the Association Amicizia Sardegna Palestina, who believe in the power of film to bring people closer to different cultures and experiences. This dedication and passion is evident in the success of the festival, which has grown from a small local event in Cagliari in 2002 to an international film festival that is now among the most popular events about the Arab world in Southern Europe.

In addition to its international reach, Al Ard Film Festival is and wants to remain also an important event in Sardinia, where it takes place every year in Cagliari. The festival has become a beloved and eagerly anticipated annual event for the local community, and its success has helped to put Cagliari on the map as a destination for film enthusiasts even from outside the island.

What sets Al Ard Film Festival apart is its entirely volunteer-led organization. This means that the festival is driven by the dedication and commitment of individuals who are passionate about promoting the stories and voices of Palestine and the Arab world. It is this commitment that has allowed the festival to thrive and grow over the years, and it is what will continue to drive it forward in the future.

Overall, our goal is promoting understanding, appreciation, and dialogue about the issues facing Palestine and the Arab world. Through the power of film, the festival brings people closer to these cultures and struggles, and helps to promote a greater sense of empathy and understanding among audiences.

Best Long Feature Documentary – Prize: €2,000.00
Best Short Feature Documentary – Prize: €1,000.00
Best Non-Documentary Short Film – Prize: €1,000.00
Audience Award – Prize: €1,000.00

Rules and Regulations – Al Ard Film Festival (XXII Edition)
1. Eligibility
a) All submitted films must focus on Palestine or the Arab world as their primary subject.
b) Films may be submitted regardless of their country of production or release, provided they address themes relevant to the Arab world and/or Palestine.
c) Films in languages other than Italian are accepted, provided that English subtitles are included at the time of submission.
• Selected films shall provide subtitle files in SRT format for translation, to ensure accessibility for the Festival’s Italian-speaking audience.

2. Categories and Awards
a) Best Long Feature Documentary – Prize: €2,000.00
b) Best Short Feature Documentary – Prize: €1,000.00
c) Best Non-Documentary Short Film – Prize: €1,000.00
d) Audience Award – Prize: €1,000.00

3. Submission Fee
No submission fee is required to participate in the 22nd edition of Al Ard Film Festival.

4. Screening Fees
Al Ard Film Festival does not pay screening fees for films selected for the Competition.

5. Filmmaker Attendance
Filmmakers whose works are selected are encouraged to attend the Festival in person. However, Al Ard Film Festival cannot guarantee any financial support for travel or accommodation expenses.

6. Submission Deadline
All submissions must be received by 31 October 2025.
Late submissions will not be considered.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Being part of one of the most respected film festivals, known for its powerful and impactful films, I genuinely had a great experience.

    March 2026
  • Abdullah Harun Ilhan

    One of the greatest film festivals I have ever attended. the festival team and the people of the city are amazing. I recommend it to everyone!

    February 2026
  • Salim Saab

    Very nice and important festival that highlights Palestinian and Arab cinema !I v been selected twice (2023 and 2026) and it s always a pleasure to screen my movies here !

    February 2026