DUBAI: Shivani Pandya Malhotra is stepping down as general manager of the Red Sea International Film Festival after helping transform the event into one of the Arab world’s leading film festivals and a key marketplace for the regional industry, according to a report by Variety.
Pandya Malhotra has been involved with the Saudi film initiative since its early stages, helping guide the festival through its first five editions. Established in 2019, the Red Sea International Film Festival emerged as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly developing cinema sector.
Reflecting on her departure, Pandya Malhotra said: “After seven incredible years and five remarkable editions of the Red Sea International Film Festival, I leave with immense pride in everything we have built together.
“It has been a privilege to be part of the Foundation’s journey from the very beginning and to witness its growth into a globally respected institution,” she added. “I am deeply grateful to our Chairwoman Jomana Al-Rashid, CEO Faisal Baltyour, our leadership, partners, filmmakers, colleagues, and the wider film community whose passion and commitment have helped shape this success. While I am excited about the next chapter, the Red Sea Film Foundation will always hold a very special place in my heart.”
The festival’s most recent edition was among the first to be held under the leadership of Faisal Baltyour, who became chief executive of the Red Sea Film Foundation in 2025.
“Shivani has played an important role in the Foundation’s journey, working alongside a talented team of Saudi and international professionals to help shape its growth. We thank her for her contributions and wish her every success in the next chapter of her career,” Baltyour said.
Before joining the Red Sea Film Foundation, Pandya Malhotra held senior roles in the regional film sector, including at the former Dubai International Film Festival. More recently, she expanded into film production, serving as executive producer on Yemeni-Scottish filmmaker Sara Ishaq’s drama “The Station,” which premiered at Critics’ Week during the 2026 Cannes Film Festival. She also played a role in the launch of Dubai Media City and served on the board of the Dubai Film & TV Commission.
