Al Mustaqbal University hosted the opening of the sixth edition of the Babylon Animation Film Festival on Sunday, October 11, 2026, with broad Arab and international participation. The event brought together a distinguished group of artists, writers, intellectuals, and filmmakers, highlighting the importance of cinema in fostering cultural exchange and promoting creative collaboration. The opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Ali Al-Shallah, Director of the Babylon International Festival of Cultures and Arts. Prof. Dr. Muzaffar Sadiq Al-Zuhairi, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision at Al Mustaqbal University, delivered the university’s address on behalf of its President, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi. In his speech, he emphasized the university’s commitment to hosting cultural and artistic events, supporting creative talent, and fostering an environment that contributes to the development of the film industry and strengthens cooperation among artists from different countries. For his part, Prof. Dr. Amer Sabah Al-Marzouk, President of the festival, highlighted the festival’s role in developing animation cinema and providing filmmakers with opportunities to exchange artistic experiences and perspectives, thereby contributing to the advancement of this art form and strengthening its presence in the Arab and international cultural landscape. The first day’s program featured screenings of animation films from Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Tunisia, Egypt, and Morocco, alongside an intellectual seminar entitled “Artificial Intelligence and Animation Film Production,” addressing modern technological developments and their implications for the future of filmmaking. The event also included the honoring of Al Mustaqbal University and the President of the Babylon International Festival of Cultures and Arts in recognition of their efforts in supporting cultural and artistic activities. The festival’s second day will feature cinematic screenings, cultural events, recognition of participants, and the announcement of the final results. Al Mustaqbal University’s hosting of this cultural event reaffirms its commitment to supporting the arts and creativity, strengthening engagement with cultural institutions and artistic festivals, and contributing to highlighting the rich heritage of Babil Governorate and consolidating its position as a center of culture and the arts. Al Mustaqbal University The First University in Iraq