For its second edition, the institutional aspects of the festival were strengthened through the creation of the Marrakech International Film Festival Foundation under the chairmanship of His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid. The foundation is the sole host and organiser of the event.

Over four days beginning on 18 September 2002, Marrakech captured the attention of world cinema as the festival was attended by well-known directors, actors, and producers from all around the globe. The public responded with equal enthusiasm, and events were filled to capacity throughout the festival.

Jeanne Moreau was President of the jury, and the festival paid a vibrant tribute to the Moroccan actor Mohammed Hassan El Joundi, as well as to two giants of Hollywood: David Lynch and Francis Ford Coppola.

For this second edition, the festival contributed to the cultural scene through symposia, workshops, and meetings linked thematically by three issues in cinema: social responsibility, financing, and innovation. The event also acknowledged the legacy of Bollywood cinema via a tribute to Indian producer and actor Aamir Khan.