Shivani Pandya Malhotra has announced her resignation as the general manager of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Film Festival. Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in which she helped transform this festival from its inception into a leading cinematic event in the Arab world, as well as a prominent marketplace for films in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region.
Red Sea Film Festival’s Significant Growth
Established in 2019, the Red Sea Film Festival made its debut in December 2020, following Saudi Arabia’s landmark decision to lift a 35-year ban on commercial cinemas. Hosted in Jeddah, located along the eastern shore of the Red Sea, the festival quickly gained traction, attracting audiences and industry professionals alike. In its second year, the festival welcomed nearly 40,000 film enthusiasts and over 4,000 industry insiders over a span of ten days, illustrating its rapid ascent within the global film landscape. The 2022 festival featured a distinguished jury led by acclaimed director Oliver Stone, highlighting its growing influence.
For the 2023 edition, themed “Your Story, Your Festival,” Pandya Malhotra and her team secured stellar talent, including Baz Luhrmann as the president of the jury. The lineup showcased critical works like Kaouther Ben Hania’s “Four Daughters” and Maïwenn’s historical drama “Jeanne du Barry,” which featured Johnny Depp. This commitment to showcasing diverse cinematic voices has made the Red Sea Film Festival a vital hub for filmmakers and audiences alike.
Honoring Accomplishments and Future Endeavors
In her resignation statement, Pandya Malhotra expressed pride in the achievements over her seven-year tenure, emphasizing the festival’s growth into a respected institution on the global stage. She expressed gratitude towards key figures, including Jomana Al Rashid and Faisal Baltyour, the festival’s CEO, as well as the larger film community. “The Red Sea Film Foundation will always hold a very special place in my heart,” she remarked, hinting at the significant emotional connection she has developed with the festival throughout its evolution.
The most recent festival edition also marked a new leadership chapter under Baltyour, who was appointed CEO in 2025. Sources suggest that their differing visions for the festival’s future may have contributed to Pandya Malhotra’s decision to step down. The festival, under Baltyour’s guidance, is expected to pursue new directions while maintaining the foundation’s core values.
Pandya Malhotra’s Legacy and New Projects
Baltyour acknowledged Pandya Malhotra’s vital contributions, underscoring her significant role in shaping the foundation alongside a talented team of both Saudi and international professionals. He expressed gratitude for her efforts while wishing her success in her future pursuits.
With over 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Pandya Malhotra is noted for her previous role managing the now-defunct Dubai Film Festival. More recently, she has ventured into film production, serving as the executive producer for the Yemeni-Scottish director Sara Ishaq’s acclaimed drama “The Station,” which premiered to positive reviews at Cannes Critics’ Week in May. Her ongoing dedication to storytelling continues to thrive, demonstrating her commitment to the art form beyond the festival scene.
As Shivani Pandya Malhotra embarks on new ventures, the legacy of her leadership at the Red Sea Film Festival will undoubtedly impact the landscape of Arab cinema and film promotion in the region for years to come.