ZIFF — ZANZIBAR INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (Festival of the Dhow Countries)
The Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), also known as the Festival of the Dhow Countries, is one of the largest cultural events in East Africa. Founded in 1997, ZIFF celebrates cinema, music, and performing arts from the Dhow Countries — the nations bordering the Indian Ocean including East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Persian Gulf, and South and Southeast Asia. The 29th season ran in 2026. ZIFF screens over 150 films and attracts an audience of 100,000+. The festival is held in the historic Stone Town of Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ZIFF runs competitive sections for feature films, documentaries, and short films, with awards in multiple categories.
[Enriched 2026-04-21] 29th edition. Submissions closed 31 March 2026 — selection announcements imminent. Festival dates: 24–28 June 2026, Stone Town, Zanzibar.
Deadline
24–28 June 2026 (festival dates)
Cost
Submission via FilmFreeway
Format
Feature fiction, documentary, short films, animation. Films from the Dhow Countries region and beyond.
Eligibility
Filmmakers globally, with focus on the Dhow Countries region (East Africa, Arabian Peninsula, South/Southeast Asia). East African filmmakers especially welcome.
What You Get
Festival screening and awards eligibility. Access to the ZIFF industry programme. Networking with East African and Indian Ocean region film professionals. Visibility to an audience of 100,000+ in one of Africa's most culturally significant settings.
What to Submit
Completed film via the ZIFF submission platform or FilmFreeway.
Insider Tips
ZIFF is the premier film festival for East African filmmakers — complementing Docubox (East African funding) and AFRIFF (West African market). The Dhow Countries focus gives ZIFF a unique cultural perspective that bridges East Africa with the Indian Ocean world. For Kenyan, Tanzanian, Ugandan, and Rwandan filmmakers, ZIFF is a critical visibility platform. The 100,000+ audience makes it one of the most-attended film events on the continent.
Check ziff.or.tz for annual submission dates.
17 days left
Verify dates and eligibility on the official website before applying.
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