The selection of films features Egyptian classics restored in collaboration with Egypt's Media Production City.

The titles include Aish Wal Malh (Bread and Salt, 1949), directed by Hussein Fawzy; Idhak El-Soura Tetla'a Helwa (Smile, the Photo Comes Out Better, 1998) by Sherif Arafa starring the festival’s honoree, actress Mona Zaki; and Shafika and Metwali (1979) by Ali Badrakhan, Mona Zaki's personal choice for the festival. 

According to the festival's organizers, the restored classics reflect the dynamic legacy of Egyptian cinema and continue the festival’s commitment to showcasing Arab and global cinematic treasures on the big screen.

Antoine Khalife, director of Arab Programmes and Film Classics, said in a press release that this year's focus on Egyptian cinema reflects the country's rich film history. "Through these restored films, we celebrate the legendary performances of stars, like Naima Akef, Soad Hosny, Mona Zaki, and Laila Elwi, bringing their performances to life for modern audiences." 

The festival will also screen the timeless masterpiece Heat (1995), directed by American filmmaker Michael Mann and starring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino.

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Film Festival will take place from 5 to 14 December in the historic Al-Balad district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jeddah.

Egypt is in a particular limelight during this edition. 

The Egyptian-Saudi co-produced film The Tale of Daye’s Family (Dayy) by Egyptian director Karim El-Shenawi will open the festival. 

Egyptian art film Abdo and Saneya will be screened at the Arab Spectacular segment of the event.

The festival's special section, “Festival Favourites,” will also screen East of Noon (Sharq 12), written and directed by Hala Elkoussy, and The Inevitable Journey to Find a Wedding Dress by Jaylan Auf, who also penned the script.