From sweeping couture trains to vintage fashion moments that still live rent-free in our minds, the Cannes Film Festival has always been more than just cinema. For Arab celebrities in particular, the red carpet has become a space to showcase regional designers on one of fashion’s biggest global stages — and honestly, the looks rarely miss.
With the 79th Cannes Film Festival set to take place from May 12 to May 23, 2026, we’re looking back at some of our favorite Arab celebrity fashion moments from across the years.
Amina Khalil in Rami Kadi — 2025
Amina Khalil floated onto the Cannes scene in a dreamy blush pink gown by Rami Kadi — and honestly, it was pure red carpet romance.
The fitted silhouette, soft shimmer, and feather-trimmed layers gave the look that perfect mix of elegance and playful couture drama. Paired with sleek hair and sparkling statement earrings, the whole vibe felt effortlessly chic with just the right amount of theatrics.
Salma Abu Deif in Zuhair Murad — 2024
Salma Abu Deif arrived at Cannes in a silver look that felt somewhere between futuristic armor and old Hollywood glamour. The one-shoulder gown shimmered from every angle, covered in intricate embellishment with strategic cut-outs that gave the dress a sharper, more modern edge. It was classic Zuhair Murad in the best way possible: dramatic, sculpted, and unapologetically glamorous.
What made the look stand out even more was how effortless Salma made it feel. No overstyling, no distractions — just the dress, the glow, and that unmistakable Cannes energy.
Maya Diab in Jean-Louis Sabaji — 2023
Maya Diab has never really believed in playing it safe on a red carpet, and this Cannes appearance proved exactly that. Wearing a plunging black gown by Jean-Louis Sabaji, she turned a classic silhouette into something much sharper and bolder.
The sheer striped detailing running down the leg added just enough drama without overwhelming the look, while the oversized statement necklace gave it that extra touch of Cannes extravagance.
Bella Hadid in Vintage Versace — 2022
Bella Hadid’s Cannes fashion archive is already iconic, but this vintage Versace moment deserves its own chapter. The strapless black gown played with proportions in the most unexpected way, featuring a sculptural peplum-like shape around the hips before falling into a sleek velvet silhouette.
It was the kind of look that makes everyone pause for a second on the carpet. Paired with slicked-back hair and minimal jewelry, the dress did all the talking. And honestly, it spoke very loudly.
Karen Wazen in Tony Ward — 2021
Karen Wazen turned heads in a sculptural white gown by Tony Ward. The sleek fitted dress featured dramatic layered embellishments across the bodice, adding a futuristic couture feel to the elegant silhouette and flowing train.
With a slick bun and minimal styling, Karen kept the look clean, modern, and effortlessly striking — proving that sometimes all-white can make the boldest statement on the Cannes carpet.
Cannes has always delivered unforgettable fashion moments, but seeing Arab celebrities and regional designers continue to shape the conversation on such an international stage makes these appearances hit even harder. If these looks are anything to go by, Cannes 2026 already has a lot to live up to.
We Said This: Don’t Miss… These 4 Films by MENA Directors Are Headed to Cannes 2026
