Celebrating “Women in Cinema” from the region – and beyond – Arab talent turned heads at the prestigious event

Over the weekend, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea International Film Festival hosted a Women in Cinema gala dinner in Cannes, honouring rising female talent in the Arab world and recognising their profound impact on film.

The glamorous event attracted a host of regional and international stars, and followed an insightful panel discussion during the Variety Global Conversations earlier that day.

The ‘Women In Cinema’ panel featured a number of esteemed Arab talents including Saudi singer and actress Aseel Omran, Egyptian actress and model, Salma Abu Deif, Saudi actress Adhwa Fahad, as well as Bollywood star, Kiara Advani.

The talents shared their insights on their career journeys and inspirations as creators.

In the evening, the the ritzy gala dinner and celebratory festivities unfolded at the Hotel Du Cap Eden-Roc, attended by the likes of Naomi Campbell, Ikram Abdi, Uma Thurman, and more heavyweight stars. CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation, Mohammed Al-Turki, was also in attendance.

For the event, guests came dressed to the nines, with a few Arab stars opting to be dressed by regional designers.

Below, see all the Arab stars and fabulous fashion spotted at the Women In Cinema Gala Dinner.

Aseel Omran

The Saudi actress wore a stunning saree-inspired creation by Lebanese designer Elio Abou Fayssal. The elaborate design featured intricate applique and beadwork, and was adorned with beaded gold fringe along the edges.

Image: @aseel/Instagram

Ikram Abdi

The former Harper’s Bazaar Arabia cover star was breathtaking in a modest pale blue ensemble by Lebanese couturier, Zuhair Murad. The dress featured a high neck, belted waist and soft, flowing pleats. She accessorised with a brown headscarf and earrings by Hassanzadeh Jewellery.

Ikram Abdi cannes Film festival
Image: @amrco.bahler/Instagram

Salma Abu Deif

The Egyptian actress and former Harper’s Bazaar Qatar cover star dazzled in a metallic silver number by Zuhair Murad.

Cannes Film festival 2
Image: @salmaabudeif/Instagram

Kiara Advani

The Bollywood star turned heads in a structured, corseted gown by Turkish label, Nedret Taciroglu. The pink and black creation featured a large, statement bow at the back, while she accessorised the look with black lace gloves and a dazzling necklace by Bulgari.

Image: kiaraaliaadvani/Instagram

Dorra Zarrouk

Tunisian film star, Dorra Zarrouk was every bit a Grecian goddess in a stunning white gown by Georges Chakra. The asymmetrical creation featured a floor-length cape and embellished halter detail. The former Harper’s Bazaar Arabia cover star completed the look with a bejewelled headpiece by Messika.

Cannes Film festival 2
Image: @dorra_zarrouk/Instagram

Jomana Alrashid

Chairwoman of the Red Sea Film Foundation, Jomana Alrashid, was also in attendance, looking stunning a glittery black number.

Image: @jomanaalrashid/Instagram

Yousra

The legendary actress and singer looked ravishing is red wearing an off-the-shoulder number by Marchesa. Styled by Cedric Haddad, she accessorised her look with a simple gold choker and crimson lips.

Youssra Cannes
Image: @cedrichaddad/Instagram

Mohammed Al-Turki

CEO of the  Red Sea Film Foundation, Mohammed Al-Turki looked dapper in a tailored black and white tuxedo. He finished off the look with a black bowtie and jewel-encrusted brooch.

Cannes Film festival
Image: @moalturki/Instagram

Adhwa Fahad

Image: @redseafilm/Instagram

The Saudi actress made a statement in an asymmetrical red and white creation. The form-fitting gown featured a dramatic cape and belted waist, adorned with eye-catching red beadwork. She completed the look with a pair of red, fur-trimmed heels.

Lead image credit: @aseel/@ikramabdi/@dorra_zarrouk/Instagram

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