Amman, June 29, 2026
The Royal Film Commission – Jordan (RFC) concluded its very first participation to the Shanghai Film Festival (SIFF) in China, in its 28th edition, marking Jordan’s first participation in the festival, which now stands as one of Asia’s most influential cinematic events, bringing together acclaimed filmmakers, emerging talent, industry leaders, and film enthusiasts from around the world. Celebrating creativity, cultural exchange, and the art of storytelling, the festival provides a dynamic platform for international premieres, industry dialogue, and the discovery of new voices in global cinema.

Jordan’s participation at the SIFF was guided by three main objectives: to explore potential co-production opportunities with China in film and television, to open new channels for the distribution of Jordanian films and series in China—one of the world’s largest entertainment markets—and to invite Chinese production companies and producers to consider Jordan as a distinctive filming destination for Chinese films and series.

Another paramount milestone was achieved with Jordan joining the Belt & Road alliance, which included signing an agreement for future collaboration with SIFF. The Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance was launched by the Shanghai International Film Festival in June 2018. To date, the Alliance has grown into a network of 57 members from 50 countries, consisting primarily of film festivals, along with several film institutes and funds. Each June, during the Shanghai International Film Festival, the Alliance presents the Belt and Road Film Week, an important platform for cinematic exchange and cultural dialogue. 

Jordan also participated in the SIFF Film and TV Market, where it established connections with major Chinese film industry institutions and professionals. The RFC delegation also met with high-level Chinese film officials, including the leadership and management of the China Film Administration, as well as representatives from major Chinese production companies and film organization officials. During these meetings, Jordan’s film industry and infrastructure were presented, and opportunities for future collaboration were discussed.

Commenting on the impact of the visit, Mohannad Al-Bakri, Managing Director of the Royal Film Commission, said: “Our participation in the Shanghai International Film Festival marks a significant milestone in strengthening Jordan's presence within one of the world's fastest-growing film markets. Beyond showcasing the remarkable progress of Jordanian cinema, we established meaningful relationships with leading Chinese film institutions and industry professionals that will pave the way for future co-productions, distribution opportunities, and investment in Jordan as a premier filming destination. Joining the Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance further reinforces our commitment to expanding international partnerships and creating new opportunities for Jordanian filmmakers on the global stage."

It is important to mention that Jordan’s cinematic growth was showcased to the participants of the film festival through the world premier screening of the film "Boomah," written and directed by Zaid Abu Hamdan, with renowned Jordanian actress Rakeen Saad as the lead actress. The film competed for several awards at festival. On another note, the film which previously received support from the Jordan Film Fund under the Production Grants for Feature Narrative Films programme and received a cash rebate from the RFC, was received with great enthusiasm from the Chinese audience and critics alike, and the film’s core team considered their experience highly rewarding and impactful.

Another Jordanian feature film was also screened at the Asian Collection Section of the festival, “Sink”, written and directed by Zain Duraie demonstrated Jordan’s diverse and promising film industry. The film premiered at the 51st edition of the Toronto Film Festival last year. It also received positive feedback from Chinese audience, who praised the remarkable progress of Jordanian cinema.


About the Royal Film Commission – Jordan
The Royal Film Commission – Jordan (RFC) is a public institution, with administrative and financial autonomy, established in 2003 with a mandate to promote for and contribute to the development of an internationally competitive Jordanian audio-visual industry. The RFC organizes training workshops, screenings and provides production support services.
For any further information, please email: info@film.jo or call: +96264613535 ext. 203.