Documentaries and short films are undoubtedly honest and heartfelt genres that promote the dialogue between cultures. Films deepen our understanding of others' different social visions, values, and thoughts.

It is the belief in the importance of shorts and documentaries being able to establish this understanding that gave birth to the idea of the Ismailia International Film Festival For Documentaries and Shorts in 1991.

Over the course of the festival's editions, managements and directors changed and things progressed and grew in various ways. Yet the Ismailia International Film Festival For Documentaries and Shorts remained committed to showcasing important and significant documentaries and shorts in a celebration of cinema, creativity, and the undeniable influence of film.

Egyptian and international filmmakers both value the festival and consider it a viable showcase for their works.