Saudi Film Nights Durban screening cancelled due to security concerns after Joburg run

The Durban screening of Saudi Film Nights scheduled for Sunday, 11 October 2026, has been cancelled due to security concerns stemming from political unrest in the city. This decision follows the event's previous screenings in Johannesburg, which took place on 7 and 8 October. The cancellation was announced on Instagram by the event organizers, who cited guidance from the Saudi Embassy about the "security situation in Durban."

The statement expressed deep regret for the inconvenience caused and emphasized the utmost priority given to the safety of guests and participants. Saudi Film Nights, which has previously featured screenings of "Irtizaz" and "Night Courier" in Johannesburg, aims to bring Saudi cinema to South Africa. The Johannesburg leg showcased two short films that delve into different experiences and social pressures in Saudi Arabia.

One film, "Irtizaz," centers on a young divorcee struggling with marriage pressures, while the other, "Night Courier," follows a delivery driver entangled in a dangerous illegal world. Saudi actors Rand Al Gosaibi and Mohammed Aldokhei were among those present at the Johannesburg screenings, alongside South African celebrities Didintle Khunou, Zikhona Zodlaka, and Anton Jeftha.