Culture and Art
Joud Al-Sufyani in her first Egyptian film, "Once Upon a Time," with Nour El Nabawy
Saudi artist Joud Al-Sufyani is embarking on her first experience in Egyptian cinema through the film "Once Upon a Time," in a move that reflects the growing Saudi artistic presence on the Arab scene.
A new step in a rising artistic career
Young Saudi artist Joud Al-Sufyani is preparing to embark on a new and important phase in her artistic career with her debut in Egyptian cinema, a medium long considered the gateway to stardom in the Arab world. This step comes with the highly anticipated film "Kan Yama Kan" (Once Upon a Time), which brings her together with a constellation of young stars, including Nour El Nabawy, Yasmina El Abd, and Marwan Moslemany, lending the experience a youthful and vibrant feel.
"Once upon a time"... a journey from the heart of Upper Egypt
Filming recently began in the historic city of Luxor in southern Egypt, lending the project a unique visual and cultural dimension. Scheduled for release in 2026, the film is expected to be a distinctive cinematic experience blending comedy and adventure. This marks not only Al-Sufyani's debut in Egyptian cinema but also her first foray into comedy, a new challenge added to her already diverse and complex dramatic roles.
Historical context: Egyptian cinema as an incubator for Arab talent
Joud Al-Sufyani's participation takes on particular significance when placed in its historical context. Egyptian cinema, known as the "Hollywood of the East," has for decades been the primary platform from which Arab artists have launched their careers toward regional fame. Egyptian screens have witnessed a remarkable presence of stars from various Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia. Al-Sufyani's move underscores the continuation of this artistic integration and simultaneously reflects the qualitative leap that Saudi art is experiencing, confidently exporting its talents to the largest art markets in the region.
A remarkable performance in Gulf drama
This opportunity didn't come out of nowhere; it's the culmination of a successful career achieved by Al-Sufyani in a short period. She shone in several dramas during Ramadan 2025, captivating audiences with her versatility in roles and characters. Her participation in Saudi, Gulf, and Jordanian dramas has broadened her experience. Her role in the series "Autumn of the Heart" is considered one of her highlights, where she starred alongside a group of prominent Saudi actors, and the series achieved great popular success. She also stood out in other works such as "Luna's Story" as Hana, "Born to Die" as Amal, and the series "Rare Cases," works that solidified her position as one of the most prominent rising talents on screen.
Importance and impact: Enhancing the Saudi artistic presence
Joud Al-Sufyani's participation in Egyptian cinema represents more than just a role in a film; it reflects the growing presence of Saudi artists on the regional stage and embodies the fruits of Vision 2030, which has placed great emphasis on supporting the culture and entertainment sector and empowering young talent. This experience is expected to pave the way for further artistic collaboration between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, enriching Arabic content, producing joint works that appeal to a wider audience, and strengthening cultural exchange between the two sister nations.
Culture and Art
Rashed Al-Majed: A song by him, a concert at Riyadh Season, and sold-out tickets
Artist Rashed Al-Majed released his new song "Biz'amah" ahead of his highly anticipated concert at Riyadh Season, which sold out completely amidst record demand. Learn more about the song and the concert.
A strong comeback for the Sindbad of Gulf song
In a highly anticipated artistic move, renowned Saudi artist Rashed Al-Majed, nicknamed "The Sindbad of Gulf Song," released his latest single, "Biz'amah." This release marks a strong comeback for him on the music scene ahead of his highly anticipated concert as part of Riyadh Season. This event comes amidst the significant artistic and cultural movement currently underway in Saudi Arabia, where Rashed Al-Majed is a prominent figure with a distinguished career spanning over three decades. During this time, he has presented hundreds of works that have shaped the sensibilities of generations of listeners in the Gulf and the Arab world.
Details of the song "Bi-Za'ma" and a prominent artistic collaboration
The new song "Bi-Za'mahu" (By His Claim) is not just a fleeting artistic endeavor, but the fruit of a collaboration bringing together distinguished artistic figures. The lyrics were penned by His Excellency Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority, who boasts a distinguished poetic career. Al-Sheikh promoted the song through his official accounts, sharing a poignant excerpt from the lyrics that poignantly describe separation in a profound poetic style: "Love and paradise don't meet; there's a vast difference between us." The song was composed by Nawaf Abdullah, with musical arrangement by Cyrus, while Tamer Faydi's strings added a refined classical touch. Engineer Jassim Mohammed oversaw the mixing and mastering, completing a cohesive team that produced a high-caliber artistic work.
Tickets sold out and unprecedented public demand
The interest wasn't limited to the new song; it extended to the announced concert. As soon as tickets went on sale, the organizing company announced they sold out completely in record time, noting that demand exceeded one million requests—a record-breaking figure reflecting the artist's massive fan base and the public's eagerness to see him on stage after a long absence. This overwhelming response not only confirms Rashid Al-Majed's stardom but also demonstrates the success of Riyadh Season's strategy in attracting audiences and delivering world-class entertainment events that meet their expectations.
The event is part of the Riyadh Season cultural vision
The concert will take place on January 30th at the Mohammed Abdo Arena, one of the largest and most luxurious theaters in the region, as part of Riyadh Season, which has become a landmark event on the regional and international entertainment calendar. This concert is part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the culture and entertainment sectors. Majed, accompanied by his orchestra under the direction of the renowned maestro Waleed Fayad, is expected to perform a diverse selection of his most beloved classic songs, as well as his new works, with promises of several surprises that will make this night an unforgettable event in the history of concerts in the region.
Culture and Art
Ahmed Saad and Tamer Ashour's concert at Formula E Jeddah, February 2024
Stars Ahmed Saad and Tamer Ashour will perform a huge concert in Jeddah on February 14 as part of the Formula E race events, in an exceptional night that combines the speed of cars and music.
A blend of speed and music in the Bride of the Red Sea
Jeddah is gearing up to host an exceptional evening of entertainment, blending the thrill of international motorsports with the authentic sounds of Arabic music. Egyptian superstars Tamer Ashour and Ahmed Saad will perform a grand concert on February 14th. This concert is part of the entertainment events accompanying the Formula E World Championship, promising the audience a unique experience that combines the roar of electric engines with the rhythms of exhilarating music.
Formula E in Saudi Arabia: A vision that transcends the boundaries of sport
Saudi Arabia's hosting of Formula E races is no longer just a sporting event; it has become an integral part of the ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and enhance the Kingdom's position as a global tourism and entertainment destination. Since the launch of the Diriyah E-Prix in 2018, the Kingdom has demonstrated its exceptional ability to organize major international events. Jeddah's hosting of these events further strengthens its role as a vibrant hub on the Red Sea coast, contributing to the revitalization of domestic and regional tourism, supporting the hospitality and entertainment sector, and presenting a modern and vibrant image of the Kingdom to the world.
The importance of combining art with sports
Hosting concerts by top stars alongside major sporting events is a globally successful strategy aimed at attracting a wider audience. By bringing together motorsport enthusiasts and music lovers, these events transform into integrated cultural and entertainment festivals suitable for the whole family. This model not only enriches the audience experience but also enhances the event's economic and media value, positioning the Kingdom among the leading nations in the sports entertainment industry.
Event details and star announcements
Benchmark, the event organizer, announced the event on its official platforms, posting a poster of Tamer Ashour with the caption: “The rhythm of music and speed come together at Formula One in the heart of Jeddah, the Bride of the Red Sea. Be there with the star Tamer Ashour for an exceptional night.” They also posted a poster of Ahmed Saad, writing: “An exceptional night at Formula One with the artist Ahmed Saad in Jeddah. Get ready for a unique experience.”.
For their part, the two stars interacted with their fans on their Instagram accounts. Ahmed Saad shared the official poster and wrote in his characteristic spontaneous style: “Yes, yes, yes… we’re so excited! The artist Ahmed Saad is coming to entertain us on one of the Formula E nights.” Meanwhile, Tamer Ashour expressed his longing for his Jeddah fans, saying: “Our beloved people of Jeddah, it’s been so long since we’ve seen you, we’ve missed you! See you, God willing, on Saturday, February 14th at Formula E.”.
Culture and Art
Menna Fadali: The secret behind the abortion and the final break with her father
In a candid statement, actress Menna Fadali revealed that she had undergone an abortion in the past and announced that she had severed all ties with her father for personal reasons. Learn more.
Egyptian actress Menna Fadali sparked widespread controversy after making bold statements revealing previously undisclosed aspects of her personal life during an appearance on the program "Mirror" with journalist Khaled Farag. Fadali discussed her past decision to undergo an abortion and announced that she had severed all ties with her father, leading to extensive discussions on social media platforms.
The decision to have an abortion and the regret that follows
Menna Fadali revealed that she had undergone an abortion earlier in her life. She explained that this difficult decision was not related to her ex-husband, but rather stemmed from her personal conviction that she was not ready to take on the responsibility of motherhood at that time. She justified her stance by saying, “Bringing a child into the world is a huge responsibility for which I wasn’t prepared, and I wasn’t psychologically or age-appropriately ready to shoulder the responsibility of motherhood at that stage.”.
Context and importance of the statement
Abortion is a sensitive and controversial issue in Arab societies, surrounded by complex religious and social considerations. Public figures rarely speak openly about such personal experiences. Therefore, Fadali's statement sparked public interest, reflecting courage in addressing a personal matter that could expose her to criticism, while simultaneously opening a discussion about the psychological and social pressures women face. Despite affirming that the decision was right at the time, Fadali admitted that she began to feel regret later in life. She attributed this to her maturation and changing outlook on life over the years, saying, "I can't say for sure what decision I would make if I could go back in time," thus illustrating the internal conflict she experienced.
Final break with the father
In another part of the interview, Fadali announced her firm decision to completely and permanently sever ties with her father. She explained that this decision stemmed from his complete absence from her life since her birth and his failure to fulfill any paternal role towards her throughout her life.
Background of the strained relationship
Fadali confirmed that she had given her father numerous opportunities to mend the relationship and start afresh, but all her attempts failed. She described her persistent feelings toward him as an “escape from responsibility,” noting a clear disparity in the way she was treated compared to her half-siblings. She said, “My father was never present in any significant event in my life, whether educational, health-related, or social, and I received no support from him.” In a culture that highly values family ties, Menna Fadali’s decision to sever her relationship with her father is a bold and unconventional step. This announcement sheds light on a reality experienced by some families, where the absence of a parent profoundly impacts the lives of their children. She emphasized that she would only fulfill her “social obligation” should anything happen to him, without any personal feelings, saying, “If something happens to him, I will do what is required of me, nothing more,” reflecting the depth of the rift in their relationship.
Menna Fadali's statements reveal a deep and candid human side of her personality, far removed from the spotlight and fame. By sharing these painful experiences, Fadali presents herself as someone unafraid to confront her past, which may inspire others going through similar circumstances and underscores that the lives of celebrities are not always as perfect as they seem.
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