In 2025, the Arab Film and Media Institute (AFMI) asked hundreds of professional critics, academics, curators, and select filmmakers from over 20 countries to vote for the Greatest Arab Films of All Time, limiting their choice to Narrative Feature films (documentaries and short films were not eligible). Films had to be from the Arab world, the Arab diaspora, and/or depicting Arab narratives and could be in any language. Each voter could interpret “greatest films” however they preferred, as personal favorites, essential or milestone works, underrated gems, or a mix of all three.

Which films have stood the test of time? Which hidden gems have emerged from the margins? Which directors are being rediscovered or redefined? This landmark poll marks the beginning of a new tradition—one that celebrates the rich and diverse history of Arab cinema through the eyes of those who know it best.

Find below The 100 Greatest Arab Films of All Time, as voted by our contributors.* From iconic classics to contemporary breakthroughs, this is a living, breathing history of Arab cinema — an emerging canon that reflects both legacy and transformation.

*The total number of films is 100. Films ranked with the same number indicate a tie in the results.

The Films

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