Egypt to Host the 16th Arab Theater Festival in 2026: A Festivity of Arab Theater
Cairo, Egypt – in a grand declaration during the closing ceremony of the 15th Arab Theater Festival in Oman, Egypt was revealed as the host of the 16th edition of the prestigious event. The festival, set to take place in January 2026, will bring together theater enthusiasts, artists, and performers from across the Arab world and beyond.
The announcement was made by Ismail Abdullah, head of the Arab Theater Authority, who handed over the festival’s official file to Khaled Galal, Head of the Cultural Production Affairs Sector in Egypt. This marks a meaningful moment for Egypt, as it continues to solidify its position as a cultural hub in the region.
A Legacy of Arab Theater
The Arab Theater Festival has long been a cornerstone of Arab cultural expression, showcasing the rich diversity of theatrical talent across the Arab world. The 15th edition, held in Oman, featured 15 theatrical performances from 13 countries, with over 500 guests in attendance. The festival was divided into two tracks: a competitive segment featuring 11 performances and a non-competitive segment showcasing 4 productions.
One of the highlights of the 15th festival was the opening performance, the Legend of the Frankincense Tree, directed by Omani director Yousef Al balushi. This production set the tone for a festival that celebrated both customary and contemporary Arab theater.
A Platform for Cultural Exchange
Beyond the performances, the festival also hosted an exhibition of publications by the Arab Theater Authority.The exhibition featured 370 titles, including 9 new books dedicated to omani theater, published specifically for the event. Additionally, 33 books on Omani, Gulf, and Arab theater were signed during the festival, further enriching the cultural dialogue.
The festival also emphasized accessibility, with live broadcasts of all events, including performances, seminars, and workshops. This initiative ensured that theater enthusiasts worldwide could engage with the festival’s activities, reinforcing its global appeal.
Egypt’s Role in Arab Theater
Egypt’s selection as the host of the 16th Arab Theater Festival underscores its enduring influence on Arab culture. The country has a storied history in theater, with iconic productions and legendary figures shaping the art form over decades. The 2026 festival is expected to build on this legacy, offering a platform for emerging talent while honoring the traditions of Arab theater.
Khaled Galal, who will oversee the festival’s organization, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This is a moment of pride for Egypt. We are committed to delivering a festival that reflects the richness of Arab theater and fosters collaboration among artists across the region.”
Key Highlights of the 15th Arab Theater Festival
| Aspect | details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Host Country | Sultanate of Oman |
| Number of Performances| 15 (11 competitive, 4 non-competitive) |
| Participating Countries| 13 |
| Guests | Approximately 500 |
| Publications Exhibited| 370 titles, including 9 new books on Omani theater |
| Live Broadcasts | all events, including performances, seminars, and workshops |
Looking Ahead to 2026
As Egypt prepares to host the 16th Arab Theater Festival, anticipation is building for what promises to be a landmark event. The festival will not only celebrate the art of theater but also serve as a testament to the enduring cultural ties that unite the Arab world.For those eager to stay updated on the latest developments, follow the official announcements from the Arab Theater Authority and the Cultural Production Affairs Sector.
The 16th Arab Theater festival is more than an event; it’s a celebration of creativity, heritage, and the unifying power of art.Mark your calendars for January 2026, and join us in Cairo for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Arab theater.
