13th Algiers International Film Festival (AIFF 2026)

The Algiers International Film Festival (AIFF) returns for its 13th edition from 5 to 12 December 2026 in the Algerian capital. Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture and Arts, it brings feature films, documentaries and shorts to Algiers audiences, along with an industry programme. It suits film lovers, students and professionals planning a winter trip to Algiers.

About the Algiers International Film Festival

The Algiers International Film Festival, also known by its French initials FICA, is one of the main cinema events in Algeria. It screens international and Arab productions in competition and in parallel sections, and hosts meetings with directors and actors. The festival's official website publishes the programme, the competition rules and news in Arabic, French and English.

Alongside the public screenings, the festival runs CineMarket, a professional programme for film projects. For the 2026 edition the organisers describe CineMarket as focused on post-production support for short and feature films, with its own dates inside the festival week. This makes the festival relevant both to audiences and to people working in film.

the Algiers International Film Festival 2026 dates and venue

The official website states that the 13th edition takes place from 5 to 12 December 2026. The CineMarket professional programme has its own schedule within the festival, listed by the organisers as 7 to 11 December 2026.

Screenings are usually spread across cinemas and cultural venues in central Algiers. The venues and the daily programme are announced by the organisers closer to the opening, so check the official AIFF website before you finalise hotel locations.

How to get to Algiers for the Algiers International Film Festival

International visitors arrive at Algiers Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG), which has direct links to Europe, the Middle East, Africa and other Algerian cities. From the airport, taxis and private transfers reach central Algiers by road; journey times depend heavily on traffic.

Inside the city, the metro and tramway serve many central districts, and taxis are widely used in the evenings when screenings finish late. Visitors from Oran, Constantine, Annaba and the south can reach Algiers by domestic flight, and rail links connect several northern cities with the capital.

Where to stay

Central Algiers is the most practical base for a film festival trip. Areas around Didouche Mourad, the Grande Poste, Hydra and El Biar give easy access to cinemas, cafés and the old city. Visitors on a tighter schedule may prefer the Bab Ezzouar area near the airport.

December is a quieter tourist month in Algiers, but hotels can still fill around cultural events and official visits, so book early and keep the venue list in mind when choosing a district.

Planning a group trip to the Algiers International Film Festival

Film schools, cultural associations and student groups can build a group trip to the Algiers International Film Festival around two or three days of screenings, plus guided visits to the Casbah, the Bardo Museum and the seafront.

For professional groups, the CineMarket programme and accreditation process are announced on the official website. Register early, keep copies of accreditation confirmations and plan meetings between screenings. Because programmes are published shortly before the festival, keep the itinerary flexible for the first days.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Algiers International Film Festival 2026?

The official website gives the dates as 5 to 12 December 2026. This is the festival's 13th edition, and the CineMarket industry programme runs within the same week.

Where are the screenings held?

Screenings take place at venues in Algiers announced by the organisers. Check the official website for the venue list and daily programme, which are usually published close to the opening.

How do I get tickets for AIFF screenings?

Ticket and access details are released by the festival organisers. Follow the official website and its social channels for information on public screenings and accreditation.

Which airport should I fly into?

Fly into Algiers Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG). It is the main gateway to the capital and is connected by road to central Algiers.

Is the festival only for film professionals?

No. The public screenings are open to audiences, while CineMarket and some meetings are aimed at professionals. Check accreditation rules on the official site if you work in film.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Algiers International Film Festival in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.