Founded in 2002, the Algiers International Film Festival (AIFF) has become, over its 11 editions, an essential gathering for lovers of the seventh art. With passion and determination, it has built lasting bridges between Algerian and international filmmakers, offering audiences a unique journey through cinematic works from all over the world.

Each screening, encounter, and debate has contributed to making the Algiers International Film Festival a cultural bridge between peoples, a space for dialogue, and a vibrant tribute to Algeria, its cinema, and world cinema. A place where film becomes a tool of memory, resistance, and shared imagination.
A multifaceted mission:
1. Showcase Algerian talent by offering it an international platform;
2. Encourage creation through residencies, masterclasses, and professional networking;
3. Promote intercultural exchange by welcoming films and filmmakers from across the globe;
4. Educate and engage audiences, especially youth and marginalized communities;
5. Reward artistic innovation through a diverse range of awards and distinctions.

Awards & Prizes

For each section: Feature film - Short film - Documentary:
• Grand Prize
• Jury Prize
• Audience Award
• Technical Achievement Award
*Special Mentions (at the Jury’s discretion)

Rules & Terms

Participation, Eligibility, and Submission:

1. Eligibility Criteria

Eligible cinematographic and audio-visual works include:

• Genres: Fiction, Documentary, Animation, Experimental
• Duration: Short films: Up to 40 minutes
Feature films: Over 40 minutes
• Production Date: After January 1, 2023
• Languages: Arabic, English, or French. Films in other languages must be subtitled in French or English.
• Premiere Status: Films not previously screened in Algeria will be given priority. However, previously screened or awarded films may be accepted at the discretion of the selection committee.

2. Submission Details

No submission fees required.
Submission platform: Submission through Film Freeway Platform the and accessible via the Festival’s official website www.ficinema.dz
Required materials:
• Secure viewing link or digital file
• Synopsis (AR/FR/EN)
• Director’s biography and filmography + HD photo
• Official Poster + stills (HD)
• Teaser
• Complete Technical Rider

Deadline: September 10, 2025 (11:59 PM, UTC+1)

3. Selection Process

• A committee of professionals from the film and cultural sectors will designate and will review all submissions.
• Committee decisions are final and non-contestable.
• Official selections will be announced no later than October 10, 2025 (11:59 PM, UTC+1).
*No withdrawal is accepted once the official selection is confirmed.

4. Juries

Jury members are appointed by the festival and consist of esteemed professionals from cinema and culture. Their decisions are final.

5. Commitments of Selected Participants

Rights holders of selected films agree to:

• Authorize public screenings within the festival framework
• Allow the use of up to 3 minutes of footage for promotional purposes (TV, web, print, social media).
• Participate in festival communication activities (interviews, podcasts, and media appearances).

6. Technical Requirements

• Accepted formats: DCP, .MOV / .MP4 (H.264 codec), Blu-ray
• Deadline for receiving final screening copies: November 10, 2025 (11:59 PM, UTC+1)
• Shipping: Outbound shipping at participant's expense; return shipping covered by the festival.

7. Communication & Publicity Rights

The Festival reserves the right to use selected film visuals (images, titles, names, posters) across its promotional and communication platforms.

8. Conduct & Regulations

All participants and accredited guests must behave respectfully and comply with festival rules and Algerian law.
Misconduct may result in immediate withdrawal of accreditation.

9. Force Majeure

In case of unforeseen circumstances (natural disaster, public health crisis, political unrest, etc.), the festival may postpone, modify, or cancel the event without compensation.

10. Acceptance

Participation implies full and unconditional acceptance of this regulation.

5 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Dorwa Prod

    Our short film received a Special Mention Award at this festival, and the recognition genuinely matters.

    This wasn’t just another event. It was a space where films were selected with intention, judged with intelligence, and received with attention. The programming was strong, the discussions were real, and the atmosphere reminded us why festivals exist in the first place.

    The Special Mention is an encouragement—but more importantly, it’s validation that honest storytelling still finds its place when festivals do their job right.

    Respect to the organizers, the jury, and everyone who made this edition a meaningful cinematic experience.

    December 2025
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  • Djamel Lakehal

    Great Festival... Algerians are generous: they paid for the flight ticket and full accommodation in an incredibly historical hotel (used to host the French Government in 1944, while Paris was occupied by the Germans)... The choice of the films was very good, giving his/her chance to everyone. The organizers might want to assure English translation to make it easy for foreigners... Applause, they did it well, looking forward to a perfect session in 2026.

    December 2025
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  • Benloulou Muhammad Amine

    I had a great experience at the Algiers Film Festival. They worked so hard they create a big space for cinema lovers, and I created amazing memories at this festival

    December 2025
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  • KADA ABDALLAH

    A festival with a great deal of diversity, featuring short films, feature-length films, and documentaries. It was well organized, providing participating filmmakers and guests with free airfare and accommodation. Transportation between the hotel and the screening venues was arranged in luxury vehicles, escorted by police motorcycles to clear the way.

    The festival also offered a dedicated film market space, with free access for participants to distribute their films and negotiate deals with distributors or engage in co-production opportunities. In addition, the staff was friendly, professional, and quick to respond, speaking both French and English fluently, which made communication easy and smooth. I wish them continued success in the future!

    December 2025
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  • Karim Makram

    Amazing festival, period! The staff is extremely professional, decent and friendly they made our stay as if we are living a fairy tale.

    December 2025
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