AFA and New York Film Academy: Building a New Pathway for Film Education in Saudi Arabia

Ajyal Film Academy is developing an international academic and training relationship with New York Film Academy (NYFA) as AFA prepares to launch a new generation of practical film education in Saudi Arabia.

The objective is simple: give students in Saudi Arabia access to globally informed filmmaking education without separating that education from the realities of the regional industry. AFA’s model combines international academic input with Saudi and regional faculty, professional production environments and a curriculum designed around learning by doing.

The first major full-time offering is planned as a one-year filmmaking conservatory in Riyadh. Students will study core areas such as directing, cinematography, producing, screenwriting, editing, sound and production workflow while developing practical projects and a professional portfolio.

AFA’s broader ambition is to create a bridge between education and employment. The Academy is therefore building relationships not only with academic institutions but also with production companies, studios, government partners and entertainment-sector employers. The NYFA relationship is an important part of that international quality framework.

Final curriculum, faculty and certification details will be announced as each program completes the required academic and regulatory processes.