As the AIU Kuwait International Film Festival draws near, anticipation is building for an extraordinary celebration of cinematic talent. Our distinguished panel of judges, each a leader in film, television, or theater, will select from the finest films showcased on campus. Their expertise in storytelling and visual narration ensures that outstanding creativity and vision are justly recognized. 

• November 9 - 15, 2025 
•  AIU Campus 

Join us for an unforgettable week of film, creativity, and inspiration. Learn more: https://www.aiu.edu.kw/film-festival 

Meet the Jury 

Mr. Talal Al-Muhanna – Film, TV, and Theater Producer 

A prolific Kuwaiti producer, Talal Al-Muhanna collaborates with Arab filmmakers on documentary and fiction projects, with his work featured at international festivals from Paris to New York. He has earned awards at renowned events like the BBC Arabic Film Festival and Chicago International TV Festival. From 2017 to 2022, he produced musical plays and operettas for the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Centre in Kuwait. 

Associate Professor Maysaa Almumin – Filmmaker 

Based in Qatar, Maysaa Almumin is an acclaimed Kuwaiti filmmaker and academic, named an Arab Star of Tomorrow by Screen International. Her films, backed by AFAC and Doha Film Institute, have screened at major festivals and on Netflix Middle East. She is the founder of Albokeh and is currently developing her debut feature, selected for the Global Media Makers LA Residency 2025. 

Ms. Dalida Chahine – Filmmaker & Actress 

Dalida Chahine, an actress and filmmaker, moves between Kuwait and Sweden, with a Master’s in Media and Fine Art (Acting) from Stockholm University of the Arts. She has written, directed, and starred in multiple films and TV productions. Her short film "Hayat" (2023) was awarded at the Milan Film Festival and selected for the Berlin Independent Film Festival (2024). 

Mr. Dawood Al-Shuail – Director 

A highly respected Kuwaiti director, Dawood Al-Shuail is known for acclaimed shorts such as "The Neighborhood Cop" and "The Detective." His dedication to storytelling and cinematic vision has made him an influential figure in Kuwait’s film industry. 

Dir. M. Dahham – Filmmaker 

Mohamad Daham Al Shimmari is a celebrated Saudi director, recognized for shaping modern regional drama. With a background in theater direction, he has directed numerous television productions, including the acclaimed series Saher Al-Lail and La Musika Fi Al-Ahmadi. 

Dr. Afif J Arabi – Director, Writer, Cinematographer, Professor 

A filmmaker, researcher, and passionate educator in film, television, and new media, Dr. Afif J. Arabi brings a rich blend of academic and hands-on creative experience to the panel 

Mr. Jassim AlQames – Producer, Director, Co-founder of Free Jabriya Productions 

Jassim AlQames is a Kuwaiti writer, director, producer, and co-founder of a prominent youth digital platform. Since 2018, he has directed acclaimed works such as "Tonight: The Eighties!" and produced live shows for Miami Band and others. 

Mr. Mahmood Alshaikh – Director 

A producer, writer, and director with experience spanning back to 2007, Mahmood Alshaikh has contributed to numerous films and Gulf TV series, earning international festival awards and offering specialized training in media and filmmaking. 

This diverse jury panel brings unmatched insight, vision, and integrity to #AIUKIFF2025—ensuring a week filled with discovery, inspiration, and recognition of the region’s brightest voices in cinema.