The Amman International Film Festival is set to return from 26 July to 3 August 2026, and the seventh edition is bringing together some of the biggest names in cinema. This year’s edition unfolds under the theme “Beyond the Frame,” inviting audiences and filmmakers to look beyond what’s shown on screen. The theme celebrates the human stories, diverse perspectives, and emotions that exist beyond the cinematic image, reminding us that some of the most powerful moments are found outside the frame.
The festival has officially unveiled its jury lineup, featuring acclaimed filmmakers, writers, critics, and journalists from around the world. Among them are several familiar faces we’ve loved in blockbuster hits and award-winning films. Here’s a look at the celebrities we’re most excited to see taking their seats on this year’s jury.
Hend Sabry
Black Iris Award Jury for Best Arab Feature Narrative Film
Few stars have shaped modern Arab cinema quite like Hend Sabry. Making her screen debut at just 14 in the critically acclaimed The Silences of the Palace, she quickly proved she was far more than a child star. Over the past three decades, she’s built an award-winning career spanning more than 50 film and television projects, seamlessly moving between blockbuster hits like The Yacoubian Building, The Blue Elephant 2, and Kira & El Gin and thought-provoking dramas that tackle social issues, including Ayza Atgawez and Finding Ola.
Most recently, Sabry earned global acclaim for her role in Four Daughters, the groundbreaking documentary-drama that received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature. Whether she’s captivating audiences on screen, producing meaningful stories, or championing Arab cinema on the international stage, Hend Sabry has become one of the region’s most influential and beloved stars, making her a standout addition to this year’s Amman International Film Festival jury.
Khalid Abdalla
Black Iris Award Jury for Best Arab Feature Narrative Film
Whether you’ve watched the royal drama The Crown, the emotional adaptation of The Kite Runner, or the acclaimed Egyptian indie film The Last Days of the City, chances are you’ve seen Khalid Abdalla’s magnetic performances. The Egyptian-British actor has built an international career by taking on complex, thought-provoking roles across film, television, and theatre, earning a reputation as one of the industry’s most compelling performers.
Beyond acting, Abdalla is also a writer, producer, and outspoken activist, using his platform to advocate for human rights and freedom of expression. His ability to bridge Arab and international cinema, while bringing depth and authenticity to every role, makes him a fitting addition to this year’s Amman International Film Festival jury.
Majd Eid
Black Iris Award Jury for Best Arab Short Film
Majd Eid has quickly become one of Jordan’s most exciting acting talents, earning widespread acclaim for his powerful performances on both the regional and international stage. In 2025, he won Best Actor at both the Cairo and Doha Film Festivals, cementing his reputation as a rising star to watch. Audiences may recognize him from acclaimed films including The Alleys, the gripping Jordanian crime drama that premiered at international festivals, as well as Simsim and Once Upon a Time in Gaza, where his nuanced performances continue to showcase his impressive range.
Known for bringing authenticity and emotional depth to every role, Eid represents a new generation of Arab actors making an impact far beyond the region. With his growing list of acclaimed performances and festival recognition, he’s a fitting choice to help judge this year’s Amman International Film Festival.
Saleh Bakri
Black Iris Award Jury for Best Non-Arab Film
Saleh Bakri has become one of the most celebrated Palestinian actors of his generation, building an impressive career that spans acclaimed Arab and international productions. Known for his quiet intensity and emotionally rich performances, Bakri has collaborated with some of the region’s most renowned filmmakers while appearing in globally recognized films such as The Blue Caftan, The Teacher, The Time That Remains, and The Band’s Visit.
His latest projects continue that remarkable trajectory, including Annemarie Jacir’s Palestine 36 and All That’s Left of You, directed by Cherien Dabis, where he stars alongside his late father, legendary Palestinian actor Mohammad Bakri. With a career defined by powerful storytelling and a commitment to meaningful cinema, Saleh Bakri brings both artistic excellence and a unique perspective to this year’s Amman International Film Festival jury.
From Arab cinema icons to internationally recognized performers, this year’s Amman International Film Festival jury is packed with actors who have left their mark on screens around the world. Whether you’ve followed their biggest blockbusters or award-winning dramas, seeing these familiar faces come together in Amman is just one more reason to get excited for this year’s festival.
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