Astana will host the Astana AI Film Festival (AAIFF 2026) this autumn an international event dedicated to films created using artificial intelligence.
The festival will focus on the growing influence of AI on the creative industries. Its central feature will be an international competition of short films produced using AI technologies, according to the Creative Industries Alliance of Kazakhstan.
Speaking at an awards ceremony for the Alem.ai Battle and AI Governance Cup competitions, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said the festival reflects a “fundamental shift” in the development of the creative sector. According to him, AI is transforming the nature of creativity, opening new forms of expression and lowering barriers for creators.
At the same time, Tokayev acknowledged more cautious views suggesting that AI could reshape, or even displace, traditional segments of the creative industries. In this context, he stressed the importance of adapting in a timely manner to emerging technological trends.
The festival is expected to serve as a platform for showcasing innovative approaches to filmmaking and promoting Kazakh creative projects internationally. Applications for participation are set to open in May.
The announcement comes amid broader efforts by Kazakhstan to develop AI. The Times of Central Asia previously reported plans to establish an AI fund backed by the National Bank, aimed at financing key digital projects and educational programs.
