Intishal Al-Timimi, the long-time director of Egypt’s El Gouna Film Festival, is stepping down from the role he has held since the Red Sea event’s inception in 2017.

The respected Iraqi-born, Netherlands-based festival programmer will continue to work closely with the festival as member of the International Advisory Board, in a new role as Strategic Advisor under which he will continue to offer guidance to the team.

Al-Timimi has played a key role in building the El Gouna Film Festival, which was spearheaded by the resort’s creator Samih Sawiris and his brother, media and property tycoon Naguib Sawiris.

“I would like, on behalf of each one of us at El Gouna Film Festival, to express our deepest appreciation to Intishal Al-Timimi for his outstanding leadership and countless contributions,” said Samih Sawiris.

His passion for cinema and commitment to excellence have been instrumental to the positioning of GFF. We are very grateful for the profound impact Intishal has had as Festival Director on GFF’s growth and identity and I am delighted that he continues to be part of the festival in another strategic role.”

Naguib Sawiris, who is the official Founder of the Festival and selected Al-Timimi for the role of festival director said he had more than fulfilled his remit.

“From the outset, my sole criteria in choosing the Festival Director was to find the best-suited person for the job at hand. In Intishal, I saw not only the qualifications but also the passion and dedication necessary to lead the festival to success. I am proud to say that my decision was the right one, and Intishal’s tenure has only reinforced that confidence,” he said.

Amr Mansi, will continue to lead the GFF team as Executive Director. He will be supported by Marianne Khoury as Artistic Director and Andrew Mohsen, as Head of Programming, ensuring a seamless transition and continued success for El Gouna Film Festival in its 7th edition which will take place from 24th of October till 1st of November 2024.