Osama Al Khurayji’s AlUla-Shot ‘Siwar’ Set as Saudi Film Festival Opener

The Saudi filmmaker and creative, Osama Al Khurayji, will see his first full-length production, “Siwar”, open the longest-running film festival in the kingdom, the upcoming Saudi Film Festival.

I had the privilege of mainly capturing this remarkable film in the expansive region of AlUla, nestled in the northwest corner of Saudi Arabia. This area is rich with ancient artifacts, a verdant oasis, and towering sandstone canyons, all making it an emerging hotspot for local film production.

In “Siwar,” the fictional setting of AlUla takes the place of Najran, a city located in southwestern Saudi Arabia close to the Yemen border. The narrative explores the intricate relationships that unfold when Yaner, portrayed by Serkan Genç (“The Game-Hiyleger Axmaqlar”), a Turkish father, and Hamad, played by Fhaid Bin Mohammed, a Saudi father, find their lives intertwined, as their sons were inadvertently exchanged at birth.

I hail from the creative mind of Omar Said, who has made a significant impact in the region with his innovative work such as the trailblazing Netflix original movie “Naga.” Alongside Al Khurayji, we bring our projects to life through Hakawati Entertainment, our production company based in Riyadh.

CineWaves Films, a partner on the project, has revealed that they’ve secured worldwide distribution rights as well.

As a passionate cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that this profoundly touching human drama is destined to resonate deeply with festival-goers worldwide. Before it sets sail on a journey through local and international screens, it will undoubtedly expand its reach to an even broader global audience.

Zaid Shaker, the acting head of Film AlUla, emphasized that, “boasting more than 80% of its cast and team from Saudi Arabia, this movie truly embodies the local skill and narrative.

Opening the Saudi Film Festival is a source of pride – not only for Osama, but for everyone contributing to building a robust, enduring film industry in the kingdom and globalizing Saudi narratives,” he further added.

This year’s Saudi Film Festival, established and managed by film enthusiast and poet Ahmed Almulla, is scheduled to take place from April 17th to April 23rd in the city of Dhahran located in the Eastern Province.

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2025-04-16 15:17