Muscat has launched the Muscat AI Film Festival (MAIFF), a new event designed to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, filmmaking, and human creativity. The festival aims to support emerging filmmakers and content creators both in Oman and internationally, positioning Muscat as a key hub for cinema, technology, culture, and storytelling.
The inaugural edition was officially announced on August 31, 2026, with the festival inviting submissions from Omani filmmakers, students, and creatives, as well as participants from the wider region and beyond. Institutions and studios involved in film and content production are also encouraged to take part. Film submissions opened on September 5 and will lead to a series of creative labs and specialized workshops scheduled for October. Public screenings of the festival’s top five films will be held at VOX Cinemas in November, culminating in a closing ceremony on January 19, 2027.
MAIFF is founded on the principle that while artificial intelligence is reshaping film production and storytelling, it remains a supportive tool that centers on people and narratives. The festival plans to train more than 1,000 Omanis in AI-assisted filmmaking and engage between 40 and 60 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from Oman through a dedicated festival village.
Organizers are aiming for a media reach exceeding 10 million people across more than 30 countries, with a projected direct economic impact of over RO 100,000 in its first year. The event is backed by a consortium of strategic partners, including the Ministry of Information, Mubashir, Thawani Pay, VOX Cinemas, rmz.ai, XPAND, DMS, Premagic, MIFU, and Music Connections.
Rmz.ai serves as the festival’s founding partner for generative AI and innovation. This collaboration will facilitate access to AI tools, education, and training, as well as opportunities for exploring AI-assisted filmmaking on both local and international levels. Films submitted to MAIFF must be produced using the rmz.ai platform, enabling participants to experiment with generative AI technologies throughout various stages of production.
The festival will distribute prizes totaling RO 20,000 across several categories, including filmmaking, storytelling, art direction, and technological innovation. The Best AI Film award carries a RO 10,000 prize, while awards for Best Art Direction and Best Technological Innovation each offer RO 5,000. Additionally, more than 13 other awards will recognize excellence in creativity, storytelling, AI application, and regional filmmaking.
By establishing this international platform, MAIFF aims to nurture the next generation of filmmakers and creatives while reinforcing Muscat’s role as a center where cinema, technology, culture, and innovation converge.