From April 22 to 28, 2026, Berlin hosts a new edition of Alfilm – Arab Film Festival, a key event for anyone interested in discovering contemporary cinema from the Arab world. Organized by the Zentrum für arabische Filmkunst und Kultur e.V., an independent and non-partisan association, the festival aims to give visibility to Arab filmmaking in Germany and challenge cultural stereotypes through powerful storytelling.

This year’s edition opens with “Palestine 36” by acclaimed director Annemarie Jacir, screened at HAU Hebbel am Ufer. Set on the eve of the 1936 Palestinian Great Revolt, the film weaves together stories from different social backgrounds, portraying the growing resistance against British colonial rule and the dispossession of the Palestinian population.

As in previous years, the program is both diverse and thought-provoking, structured into two main sections. The “Alfilm Selection” showcases recent Arab productions from the past two years, offering insight into the current cinematic landscape. Meanwhile, “Alfilm Spotlight” focuses on speculative fiction and subversive narratives that explore (post-)colonial entanglements in the Arab region.

Beyond film screenings, the festival includes masterclasses, panel discussions, Q&As, and special events, creating meaningful opportunities for dialogue between filmmakers, artists, experts, and audiences.

Screenings take place across multiple venues in Berlin, including HAU Hebbel am Ufer, City Kino Wedding, Kino in der Kulturbrauerei, Sinema Transtopia, Wolf Kino, Sputnik, Flutgraben, and Festsaal Kreuzberg.

Ticket prices vary depending on the event, and the full program is available at alfilm.berlin.

Alfilm 2026 offers a unique chance to explore fresh cinematic perspectives and engage with stories that are still underrepresented in European film culture.