The ninth edition of the El Gouna Film Festival in Egypt concluded on Friday evening, with the Egyptian film "Safe Exit" taking the top honor. Directed by Mohammed Hammad, the film was awarded the Golden Star for Best Feature Film at the festival’s closing ceremony.

In the documentary category, "Citizen Osama," directed by Ahmed Hassouna, won both the Golden Star for Best Documentary and Best Arab Documentary, highlighting its critical recognition in multiple categories. The Golden Star for Best Short Film went to "Stolen Memories," directed by Anders Davidsen.

Other notable awards included "Yesterday the Eye Didn’t Sleep," directed by Rakan Mayasi, which received the Best Arab Feature Film prize. The Cinema for Humanity Audience Award was presented to "American Doctor," directed by Poh Si Teng.

Andrew Mohsen, the festival’s artistic director, noted an increase in audience attendance compared to previous years. He emphasized that despite the event’s reputation for glamorous red-carpet moments and crowded venues, the primary focus remained on celebrating cinema itself.

This year’s festival featured a diverse lineup of international films competing across multiple categories, reflecting El Gouna’s growing role as a regional hub for film culture and cinematic exchange.