The Cannes Film Festival has long been a stage where global cinema and fashion converge in the most dazzling ways. This year, Arab celebrities and designers stole the spotlight, proving that the region’s influence on the global entertainment and fashion industries continues to rise. From stunning red-carpet appearances to behind-the-scenes contributions, the Arab world had a strong and proud presence at the 2025 edition of Cannes.
A Red Carpet Dominated by Arab Elegance
The Cannes red carpet is known for its glamorous display of haute couture, and this year, Arab designers like Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad, Georges Hobeika, and Rami Kadi once again demonstrated why they are perennial favorites among international celebrities.
Lebanese fashion maestro Elie Saab dressed several A-list stars in breathtaking gowns featuring intricate embroidery, flowing silhouettes, and modern Middle Eastern craftsmanship. His designs, blending timeless elegance with a contemporary twist, received widespread media acclaim.
Similarly, Zuhair Murad’s creations sparkled under the Cannes lights. Known for his luxurious and detailed work, Murad dressed a mix of Arab and international actresses, showcasing the Middle Eastern flair for high-end fashion. His signature beadwork and bold cuts added drama and sophistication to the red carpet.
Arab Actresses Take Center Stage
The festival also saw the attendance of celebrated Arab actresses who walked the red carpet not only as style icons but as cultural ambassadors. Yasmine Sabri from Egypt stunned in a metallic gold gown designed by Nicolas Jebran, reflecting a modern take on ancient Egyptian glam. Sabri’s elegance and poise garnered praise from international fashion critics.
Tara Emad, also from Egypt, made headlines with her bold fashion choices. Dressed by Georges Hobeika, she embraced vibrant colors and unconventional cuts, signaling the confidence and individuality of a new generation of Arab talent. Her appearances were both a fashion statement and a reflection of evolving cinematic narratives from the region.
From the Gulf, Fatima AlBanawi, a Saudi actress and filmmaker, brought attention to independent Arab cinema. In interviews, she discussed her latest project and emphasized the importance of representing diverse Arab voices in global storytelling.
Films from the Arab World Gaining Recognition
Cannes 2025 wasn’t just about fashion. Arab filmmakers also made waves with impactful stories. A Lebanese feature, “The Olive Tree Cries”, directed by Nour Ghandour, received a standing ovation during its Un Certain Regard screening. The film’s raw portrayal of a family’s struggle amid economic crisis touched audiences and critics alike.
Morocco’s official entry, “Echoes of the Atlas”, directed by Youssef El Hiba, was praised for its rich cinematography and poetic narrative. The film highlighted the Berber culture and landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains, a visual treat that brought diversity to the festival’s lineup.
Palestinian director Maha Khalil’s “Borderless” drew attention for its brave exploration of identity, freedom, and resistance. While not in competition, the film sparked important conversations and received enthusiastic reviews in Cannes’ parallel sections.
Arab Designers Dress Global Celebrities
It wasn’t only Arab celebrities who turned to Middle Eastern designers. Hollywood stars such as Priyanka Chopra, Eva Longoria, and Naomi Campbell wore gowns by Arab designers, showcasing their global appeal. These collaborations reflect how the Arab fashion industry is now deeply embedded in the international couture scene.
Designers like Rami Al Ali and Tony Ward continued to attract global attention. Their fusion of traditional embroidery with cutting-edge fashion techniques turned heads and earned praise from top fashion magazines and stylists.
Looking Forward
The presence of Arab stars and designers at Cannes 2025 reflects a growing cultural shift. The global stage is finally embracing the diversity, creativity, and excellence that the Arab world brings to both cinema and fashion. As Arab storytellers gain more visibility and fashion designers continue to shape global trends, the region’s creative industries are poised for even greater influence.
Cannes is not just a celebration of cinema—it’s a reflection of global voices, and this year, the Arab world made sure its voice was not only heard but celebrated.
(Video source – https://www.youtube.com/@aljazeeraenglish)
