The festival, which runs until 27 September, is screening numerous films from 28 countries at the Sunrise Garden Beach resort.

More than 20 films are being screened in the festival's three competitive segments: feature films, short films, and student films. They were chosen from more than 300 submissions.

The feature films competition jury includes filmsaker Jivan Avetisyan (Armenia), director Salah Issaad (Algeria), and actress Dalia El-Beheiry (Egypt).

The jury in charge of choosing the best short film consists of director Roman Dorofeev (Russia), artist Omar El-Jaser (Saudi Arabia) and actor Sabry Fawaz (Egypt).

Khaled Bahgat, Hanan Youssef and Ghada Gobbara comprise the jury for the student film competition.

The festival is headed by the screenwriter Mohamed El-Bassousy and aims to empower young people in their cinematic endeavors while supporting their further development.

In one of his televised appearances, El-Bassousy explained why they chose to host the festival in Hurghada.

"Hurghada is already a tourist city, however such an event will additionally boost [tourism in the city]. On the other hand it will support youth living in the city who are interested in cinema, away from the centre of this industry in Cairo. The experience will allow everyone to see works by all Egyptian youth, help them exchange ideas and skills."

The festival is also presenting numerous talks and workshops that target young and aspiring filmmakers. Among the highlights is a masterclass given by Egypt's renowned actor and president of the Cairo International Film Festival, Hussein Fahmy. 

"The presence of Hussein Fahmy and the support he has extended towards the festival is very valuable," El-Bassousy mentioned, expressing his appreciation to the renowned actor.

Other important personalities from the Egyptian cinema who are gracing the festival with their presence are actresses Elham Shaheen and Dalia El-Beheiry (also in the jury for feature films), and actor Hany Salama who is among the festival's honorees, among others.