Festival dossier
Stone Town, Tanzania · Est. 1997 · Established legitimate festival with meaningful track record
Solid signals — do normal diligence
Tier B looks established enough for many filmmakers. Check fees, programming fit, and recent editions before submitting.
The Zanzibar International Film Festival is an esteemed annual event showcasing films from diverse regions, promoting cultural exchange and celebrating the vibrant art of filmmaking. Established in 1997, ZIFF continues to inspire and unite global audiences through the magic of cinema. The 29th Season of Zanzibar International Film Festival is set to take place from 24th to 28th June, 2026. ZIFF management would like to inform film professionals worldwide that the festival is currently accepting applications for all African films (including African Diaspora) and films from the Dhow Countries’ region- South East Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, The Persian Gulf, Iran, Pakistan, India and the Indian Ocean Islands from 11th Feb, 2026 till 31st March, 2026. Films must be have been produced after 2025. ZIFF reserves the right to accept any films with a specific interest to the festival. This year again ZIFF management extend special interest to Tv Drama Series from East African Countries (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, Somalia & Republic of the Congo) The Tv Drama series should be between 25 to 60 minutes in length per episode. Films might preferably depict the Festival theme; "AI and the art of storytelling". Films reflecting the theme of global cultural interaction, cultural encounters or sociocultural commentary will be given priority. Films must have been completed no later than May 05th, 2026. We will accept submissions of works in progress only after agreement with ZIFF management. The Submission Deadline is 31st March 2026. The festival reserves the right to also invite films for screening at ZIFF.
Last updated Sep 19, 2026
Founded
1997
Synced 4 days ago
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