Venice Film Festival has always been a place where Arab talent, stories, and voices get their moment in the spotlight, and this year was no different. From standout fashion moments to major film participations, here are the Arab figures we loved seeing at this year’s festival.
Raya Abirached
Lebanese presenter and TV personality Raya Abirached kicked off her Venice appearances in style, attending the festival’s opening night in a stunning burgundy off-shoulder Prada gown, paired with Cartier jewellery. She also made an appearance at the premiere of Bucking Fastard, bringing her signature red-carpet glamour to the festival.
Yara Elsokkary
Egyptian actress Yara Elsokkary made her Venice debut with a glamorous red-carpet appearance. She stepped out in a sophisticated black off-shoulder gown by Pasquale Bruni, adding an elegant touch to the festival’s star-studded lineup.
Reem Amer
Egyptian actress Reem Amer had more than just a red-carpet moment in Venice. She stars in Al Baraneya, the debut feature film by director Ashgan El-Hamus, which was officially selected for Giornate degli Autori, also known as Venice Days, at the festival. With her film making its way to one of the world’s biggest film festivals, Amer is definitely one to keep an eye on.
Amal Clooney
Lebanese-born human rights lawyer Amal Clooney was spotted throughout the festival alongside her husband, actor George Clooney. From arriving in Venice by boat to appearing on the red carpet, Amal brought her usual polished style to the festival, making several memorable appearances along the way.
Kaouther Ben Hania
Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania had an important role to play at this year’s festival, serving as a member of the main international competition jury for the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. She also made a stylish appearance in a shimmering gold gown by Tunisian label N É E Tunis, representing both Arab cinema and fashion on the international stage.
Nadine Labaki
Lebanese filmmaker and actress Nadine Labaki was also among the Arab names making an appearance in Venice this year. She received the 2026 Liberatum Pioneer Award in recognition of her work and influence in cinema, marking another standout moment for Arab talent at the festival. For the occasion, Labaki kept things fashion-forward in a sculpted look by designer Karoline Lang.
Zainab Alblushi
Saudi content creator Zainab Al Balushi also brought Saudi fashion to the Venice Film Festival, turning heads in a dazzling, embellished look by Saudi designer Nour Al Dhahri. Her appearance added another stylish moment to the growing presence of Arab creativity on the global stage.
From the red carpet to the festival’s film screenings and special events, Arab talent had plenty of moments to shine in Venice this year. Whether through cinema, fashion, or major festival appearances, these familiar faces brought plenty of Arab representation to the iconic festival.
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