The 2026 Venice Film Festival begins tomorrow, bringing Arab-directed films, major red carpet moments, and, of course, plenty of fashion. So while we wait for this year’s festivities to unfold, here’s a look at some of the Arab star looks from past editions that we still haven’t gotten over.
Raya Abirached in Tony Ward – 2025
Lebanese presenter Raya Abirached made a glamorous statement on the Venice red carpet in 2025, arriving for the premiere of No Other Choice in a dramatic Tony Ward gown. The strapless design paired rich forest green and black velvet and lace with shimmering sequins, giving her the perfect mix of old-Hollywood glamour and modern red-carpet drama.
Andria Tayeh in Giorgio Armani – 2025
Andria Tayeh brought effortless glamour to Venice, stepping out with Armani Beauty in a sleek strapless Giorgio Armani gown. The straight-cut metallic beige design made her arrival feel like a fashion moment of its own.
Basma Boussel in Hass Idriss – 2025
Basma Boussel brought a dreamy touch of glamour to Venice, dazzling at the amfAR charity gala in a blush pink silk gown by Hass Idriss. The draped silhouette, delicate nude lace detailing, and flowing train looked effortlessly romantic, while a sheer nude veil added an extra dose of drama. She completed the look with diamond and gold jewelry from UAE-based jewelry house Zahabia.
Salma Abu Deif in Georges Hobeika – 2023
Salma Abu Deif brought a serious dose of red-carpet drama to Venice in September 2023. She stepped out for a Pomellato event in a striking red look by Georges Hobeika from the Fall 2023 Ready-to-Wear collection. She proved once again that sometimes, all you need is a statement shade to steal the spotlight.
Dorra Zarrouk in Bazza Alzouman – 2022
Dorra Zarrouk kept things timeless at the 2022 Venice Film Festival. She stepped out for the “Women’s Stories” gala dinner in a classic black off-the-shoulder gown by Bazza Alzouman. With this bold ensemble, Zarrouk proved that you can never go wrong with a black dress, especially when it comes with a dramatic neckline.
Hend Sabry in Etro – 2019
Hend Sabry turned heads on the 2019 Venice Festival in a strapless gown by Italian fashion house Etro. Covered in striking black sequins, the look brought plenty of glamour to the occasion. In addition to a stunning look, she was also serving as a member of the official jury for debut films.
Nadine Labaki in Georges Hobeika – 2019
Nadine Labaki kept things sleek and sophisticated at the 2019 Venice Film Festival, walking the red carpet in a stunning custom black couture gown by Georges Hobeika. With its elegant silhouette and timeless finish, the Lebanese filmmaker and actress proved that classic black can make just as much of a statement as any bold hue.
From bold reds and shimmering sequins to timeless black gowns and dreamy couture, Arab stars have brought plenty of unforgettable fashion moments to Venice over the years. Now, with the 2026 festival just around the corner, we can’t wait to see what this year’s red carpet has in store.
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