The 46th Cairo International Film Festival is rolling out the red carpet not just for films, but for the legends behind them. This year, CIFF is honoring filmmakers, actors, and cinematographers whose work has left a lasting mark on cinema—both in Egypt and worldwide. From lifetime achievements to excellence awards, here’s a closer look at the stars being celebrated.
Mohamed AbdelAziz – Golden Pyramid Honorary Award for Lifetime Achievement
Egyptian director Mohamed AbdelAziz is a master of social comedy, and his films have been lighting up screens for decades. From classics like Fi El Seif Lazem Neheb and Al Baa’d Yazhab lel Maa’zoun Marratayn
to Hanafy El Obbaha, AbdelAziz blends humor and realism in a way that’s uniquely Egyptian.
His Golden Pyramid Honorary Award is a nod to a career that shaped generations, proving that laughter—and good storytelling—never goes out of style.
Khaled El Nabawy – Faten Hamama Excellence Award
Khaled El Nabawy will be receiving the Faten Hamama Excellence Award in recognition of his versatile and inspiring career. He has been captivating audiences since the late ’80s with performances that are both powerful and deeply human.
From Egyptian hits like Al Dealer to international films like Kingdom of Heaven, El Nabawy is the kind of actor who makes every role memorable. At the 46th Cairo International Film Festival, his incredible journey will also be celebrated on the big screen with screenings of The Citizen and Al-mohager.
Mahmoud AbdelSamie – Golden Pyramid Honorary Award for Lifetime Achievement
When it comes to cinematography in Egypt, few names shine brighter than Mahmoud AbdelSamie. For over five decades, his lens has captured the beauty and soul of Egyptian cinema, from
Al-Awwama rakm 70 to El-Saalik.
With more than 200 films to his name, AbdelSamie is a true pioneer whose artistry has influenced countless filmmakers. The Golden Pyramid Honorary Award is CIFF’s way of recognizing his legendary eye for storytelling through visuals.
Hiam Abbass – Golden Pyramid Honorary Award for Lifetime Achievement
Palestinian–French actress Hiam Abbass has a career that’s nothing short of epic. With more than a hundred projects under her belt—including Bye Bye Tiberias and Gaza Mon Amour—she brings heart, humanity, and a strong sense of identity to every role. CIFF is honoring Abbass for her incredible contributions to global cinema and for being a voice for Arab culture on the world stage.
Ildikó Enyedi – Golden Pyramid Honorary Award for Lifetime Achievement
Hungarian director and screenwriter Ildikó Enyedi has a knack for turning poetic, sensitive stories into unforgettable films. From My Twentieth Century, awarded Caméra d’Or, to Oscar-nominated On Body and Soul, her work mixes beauty with depth, earning her international acclaim.
Enyedi’s Golden Pyramid Honorary Award celebrates a career that’s inspired filmmakers around the globe and continues to push the boundaries of contemporary cinema.
Honoring a Legacy of Storytelling
This year, CIFF isn’t just about movies—it’s about the people who make them unforgettable. From iconic directors to world-class actors and cinematographers, the festival shines a spotlight on careers that inspire, entertain, and redefine cinema. It’s a celebration of talent, vision, and the timeless power of storytelling.
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