A new film festival in Lisbon is shining a spotlight on Arab cinema, showcasing the diverse realities of the Arab world, which share similarities with Portuguese culture. The Lisbon Arab Film Festival (LAFF) aims to bridge the cultural gap between Portugal and the Arab world, highlighting the rich narratives and experiences that often go unnoticed.

The Lisbon Arab Film Festival kicked off this week, presenting a curated selection of films that reflect the complexities and vibrancy of life in the Arab world and seeks to create a connection between Portugal and its southern neighbors, emphasizing the cultural richness that exists just beyond the Iberian Peninsula.

All films are making their debut in Portugal, with the oldest being no more than seven years old. The opening film, Everybody Loves Touda, directed by Franco-Moroccan filmmaker Nabil Ayouch, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year. Another significant screening is the documentary Bye Bye Tiberias, directed by Lina Soualem, which focuses on the Palestinian occupation.