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    Last few days to catch Reel Palestine at Cinema Akil

    by

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    34 seconds ago

    Palestinian cinema rises: Stories of resilience and hope at Reel Palestine 2025, at Cinema Akil.
    The 11th Reel Palestine Film Festival promises an extraordinary cinematic journey, transforming Cinema Akil into a powerful platform for Palestinian storytelling from January 24th to February 2nd, 2025.

    Opening Night and Feature Films
    The festival opens with Mehdi Fleifel’s “To A Land Unknown”, a Cannes Film Festival selection that follows two young men risking everything for a brighter future. This powerful narrative sets the tone for a festival dedicated to illuminating Palestinian experiences.

    Featured Films Include:
    “A State of Passion” by Carol Mansour
    A harrowing documentary following Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah’s experiences in Gaza’s emergency rooms. Screening with a Q&A featuring the director and producer Muna Khalidi.
    “Life Is Beautiful” by Mohamed Jabaly
    A poignant reflection on family and perseverance amid war. Includes a special Q&A with the director.
    “Passing Dreams” by Rashid Masharawi
    A gripping narrative about a 12-year-old boy’s journey to find his missing bird. Virtual Q&A with the director available.
    “From Ground Zero”
    An extraordinary anthology of 22 short films captured over 11 months. Palestine’s official Oscars submission for 2025, already shortlisted.
    “Thank You for Banking with Us” by Laila Abbas
    A humorous and sharp critique of Sharia law inheritance practices. Making its Gulf Premiere.
    “Israel Palestine on Swedish TV 1958–1989” directed by Göran Hugo Olsson
    A unique documentary using archival footage to chronicle life in the region.
    “Voyage à Gaza” by Piero Usberti
    A reflective journey into young Palestinians’ lives through a foreign traveler’s perspective.

    Short Film Programs
    The festival features two diverse short film programs exploring themes of identity, resilience, and imagination:
    Program 1 Highlights:

    “Palestine Islands” – A refugee’s hopeful journey
    “Mar Mara” – A girl’s escape into imagination
    “An Orange From Yaffa” – A fraught journey through Israeli checkpoints (Academy Awards shortlisted)

    Program 2 Highlights:

    “In the Waiting Room” – Navigating identity in occupied Palestine
    “A Short Film About Kids” – A dreamlike refugee journey
    “Khaled and Nema” – A boy and his goat saving their village

    The Reel Palestine Souk
    Beyond films, the festival hosts a vibrant marketplace featuring:

    Nearly 60 local businesses
    18 businesses directly from Palestine
    Food, crafts, apparel, art, and books
    Located in Alserkal Avenue’s dynamic spaces

    Festival Details

    Dates: January 24th to February 2nd, 2025
    Venue: Cinema Akil
    Ticket Price: AED 52.50 (excluding VAT)
    Tickets available at www.cinemaakil.com

    The festival honors Hani Jawhareih, the founding father of Palestinian cinema, by showcasing films that amplify individual stories and celebrate resilience through artistic expression.
    As festival organizers emphasize, this is more than a film festival – it’s a powerful platform for connection, understanding, and celebrating the complexity of Palestinian identity through the transformative power of cinema.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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      Reel Palestine Film Festival at Cinema Akil begins: Everything to know

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      47 seconds ago

      Palestinian cinema rises: Stories of resilience and hope at Reel Palestine 2025, at Cinema Akil.
      The 11th Reel Palestine Film Festival promises an extraordinary cinematic journey, transforming Cinema Akil into a powerful platform for Palestinian storytelling from January 24th to February 2nd, 2025.

      Opening Night and Feature Films
      The festival opens with Mehdi Fleifel’s “To A Land Unknown”, a Cannes Film Festival selection that follows two young men risking everything for a brighter future. This powerful narrative sets the tone for a festival dedicated to illuminating Palestinian experiences.

      Featured Films Include:
      “A State of Passion” by Carol Mansour
      A harrowing documentary following Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah’s experiences in Gaza’s emergency rooms. Screening with a Q&A featuring the director and producer Muna Khalidi.
      “Life Is Beautiful” by Mohamed Jabaly
      A poignant reflection on family and perseverance amid war. Includes a special Q&A with the director.
      “Passing Dreams” by Rashid Masharawi
      A gripping narrative about a 12-year-old boy’s journey to find his missing bird. Virtual Q&A with the director available.
      “From Ground Zero”
      An extraordinary anthology of 22 short films captured over 11 months. Palestine’s official Oscars submission for 2025, already shortlisted.
      “Thank You for Banking with Us” by Laila Abbas
      A humorous and sharp critique of Sharia law inheritance practices. Making its Gulf Premiere.
      “Israel Palestine on Swedish TV 1958–1989” directed by Göran Hugo Olsson
      A unique documentary using archival footage to chronicle life in the region.
      “Voyage à Gaza” by Piero Usberti
      A reflective journey into young Palestinians’ lives through a foreign traveler’s perspective.

      Short Film Programs
      The festival features two diverse short film programs exploring themes of identity, resilience, and imagination:
      Program 1 Highlights:

      “Palestine Islands” – A refugee’s hopeful journey
      “Mar Mara” – A girl’s escape into imagination
      “An Orange From Yaffa” – A fraught journey through Israeli checkpoints (Academy Awards shortlisted)

      Program 2 Highlights:

      “In the Waiting Room” – Navigating identity in occupied Palestine
      “A Short Film About Kids” – A dreamlike refugee journey
      “Khaled and Nema” – A boy and his goat saving their village

      The Reel Palestine Souk
      Beyond films, the festival hosts a vibrant marketplace featuring:

      Nearly 60 local businesses
      18 businesses directly from Palestine
      Food, crafts, apparel, art, and books
      Located in Alserkal Avenue’s dynamic spaces

      Festival Details

      Dates: January 24th to February 2nd, 2025
      Venue: Cinema Akil
      Ticket Price: AED 52.50 (excluding VAT)
      Tickets available at www.cinemaakil.com

      The festival honors Hani Jawhareih, the founding father of Palestinian cinema, by showcasing films that amplify individual stories and celebrate resilience through artistic expression.
      As festival organizers emphasize, this is more than a film festival – it’s a powerful platform for connection, understanding, and celebrating the complexity of Palestinian identity through the transformative power of cinema.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 150 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Reel Palestine Film Festival at Cinema Akil begins today: Everything to know

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      50 seconds ago

      Palestinian cinema rises: Stories of resilience and hope at Reel Palestine 2025, at Cinema Akil.
      The 11th Reel Palestine Film Festival promises an extraordinary cinematic journey, transforming Cinema Akil into a powerful platform for Palestinian storytelling from January 24th to February 2nd, 2025.

      Opening Night and Feature Films
      The festival opens with Mehdi Fleifel’s “To A Land Unknown”, a Cannes Film Festival selection that follows two young men risking everything for a brighter future. This powerful narrative sets the tone for a festival dedicated to illuminating Palestinian experiences.

      Featured Films Include:
      “A State of Passion” by Carol Mansour
      A harrowing documentary following Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah’s experiences in Gaza’s emergency rooms. Screening with a Q&A featuring the director and producer Muna Khalidi.
      “Life Is Beautiful” by Mohamed Jabaly
      A poignant reflection on family and perseverance amid war. Includes a special Q&A with the director.
      “Passing Dreams” by Rashid Masharawi
      A gripping narrative about a 12-year-old boy’s journey to find his missing bird. Virtual Q&A with the director available.
      “From Ground Zero”
      An extraordinary anthology of 22 short films captured over 11 months. Palestine’s official Oscars submission for 2025, already shortlisted.
      “Thank You for Banking with Us” by Laila Abbas
      A humorous and sharp critique of Sharia law inheritance practices. Making its Gulf Premiere.
      “Israel Palestine on Swedish TV 1958–1989” directed by Göran Hugo Olsson
      A unique documentary using archival footage to chronicle life in the region.
      “Voyage à Gaza” by Piero Usberti
      A reflective journey into young Palestinians’ lives through a foreign traveler’s perspective.

      Short Film Programs
      The festival features two diverse short film programs exploring themes of identity, resilience, and imagination:
      Program 1 Highlights:

      “Palestine Islands” – A refugee’s hopeful journey
      “Mar Mara” – A girl’s escape into imagination
      “An Orange From Yaffa” – A fraught journey through Israeli checkpoints (Academy Awards shortlisted)

      Program 2 Highlights:

      “In the Waiting Room” – Navigating identity in occupied Palestine
      “A Short Film About Kids” – A dreamlike refugee journey
      “Khaled and Nema” – A boy and his goat saving their village

      The Reel Palestine Souk
      Beyond films, the festival hosts a vibrant marketplace featuring:

      Nearly 60 local businesses
      18 businesses directly from Palestine
      Food, crafts, apparel, art, and books
      Located in Alserkal Avenue’s dynamic spaces

      Festival Details

      Dates: January 24th to February 2nd, 2025
      Venue: Cinema Akil
      Ticket Price: AED 52.50 (excluding VAT)
      Tickets available at www.cinemaakil.com

      The festival honors Hani Jawhareih, the founding father of Palestinian cinema, by showcasing films that amplify individual stories and celebrate resilience through artistic expression.
      As festival organizers emphasize, this is more than a film festival – it’s a powerful platform for connection, understanding, and celebrating the complexity of Palestinian identity through the transformative power of cinema.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 113 Shares

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      Valentino Cinema brings Federico Fellini’s masterpieces to Abu Dhabi

      by

      Fashion

      by Ruman Baig
      1 hour ago

      Abu Dhabi recently played host to Valentino Cinema, an exclusive four-night cinematic experience celebrating the iconic work of Italian film director Federico Fellini. From January 13th to 16th, the 421 Art Campus transformed into a haven for film enthusiasts, showcasing a selection of Fellini’s most celebrated films. The event, a collaboration between Maison Valentino and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), offered a unique blend of luxury fashion, art, and cultural immersion.

      The Valentino Avant Les Débuts campaign, Creative Director Alessandro Michele’s first for the House, drew significant inspiration from the timeless allure of Rome and its cinematic history. Fellini, a visionary director known for capturing the spirit of Rome through his distinctive lens, served as a key influence on the campaign’s narrative. This connection between Valentino’s creative vision and Fellini’s cinematic legacy formed the foundation for the Valentino Cinema event in Abu Dhabi.
      Choosing Abu Dhabi as the venue was a strategic decision. As a recognized capital of luxury fashion and elegance in the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi provides a unique cultural backdrop and an ideal platform for delivering exceptional cultural experiences. The city’s commitment to fostering a vibrant arts and culture scene aligns perfectly with Valentino’s desire to showcase Fellini’s work to an international audience.

      The partnership with ADIO was crucial in bringing this vision to life. ADIO’s focus on collaborating with leading luxury retailers to redefine Abu Dhabi’s retail landscape and create innovative consumer experiences made them a natural partner for Valentino. Noura Al Foulathi from ADIO emphasized the significance of the collaboration, stating that it allowed for the creation of a truly unique experience honoring Valentino’s iconic legacy in Italian cinema while reflecting Abu Dhabi’s vision for luxury. She further highlighted how the event seamlessly blends luxury fashion, arts, and the emirate’s rich cultural heritage, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a global destination for world-class experiences.

      The Valentino Cinema program featured a curated selection of Fellini’s masterpieces: Roma was screened on January 13th and 14th, followed by La Dolce Vita on the 15th, and 8 ½ on the 16th. The opening night was particularly special, featuring live music and a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Butheina Kazim, founder of Cinema Akil, the UAE’s first independent cinema. Kazim led a conversation with filmmakers Abdulla Al Kaabi, Sarah Alhashimi, and Chndy, exploring the film’s cultural impact and its enduring relevance.
      Valentino Cinema provided a rare opportunity for audiences in Abu Dhabi to engage with Fellini’s cinematic genius in a sophisticated and immersive setting. The event successfully combined high fashion, art, and film, creating a memorable cultural experience that further cemented Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for world-class events.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Festive cheer at Cinema Akil: Watch Home Alone (for free)

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 mins ago

      As the festive season approaches, Cinema Akil, the GCC’s first arthouse cinema, offers a diverse lineup of films across its two locations in Dubai. Whether you’re seeking thought-provoking narratives, animated adventures, or classic holiday cheer, Cinema Akil has something to offer every film enthusiast this December.
      Cinema Akil, Alserkal Avenue

      At its flagship location in Alserkal Avenue, Cinema Akil continues its commitment to showcasing impactful stories from the Arab world. Following their successful run during Arab Cinema Week, two powerful films return to the big screen: DISORDER, a poignant anthology of short films exploring the recent turmoil in Lebanon and its impact on the nation’s youth, and ANXIOUS IN BEIRUT, a bold documentary delving into the collective anxiety gripping the city. These films offer a timely and important reflection on contemporary issues, prompting dialogue and understanding.

      Adding a touch of festive magic to the Alserkal program is ROBOT DREAMS, a charming animated tale of friendship and adventure set against the vibrant backdrop of 1980s New York City. This heartwarming story promises to delight audiences of all ages, making it a perfect family outing during the holiday season.
      Cinema Akil, 25hours Hotel

      Meanwhile, at Cinema Akil’s 25hours Hotel location, the festive spirit takes center stage with a blend of critically acclaimed international films and beloved holiday classics. GOODBYE JULIA, the first Sudanese film to premiere at Cannes, makes a welcome return. This powerful film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the societal turmoil within Sudan, offering a compelling cinematic experience. BYE BYE TIBERIAS, a moving reflection on identity and resilience through the life of Palestinian actress Hiam Abbass, also returns to the screen.
      Christmas cheer

      For those seeking classic entertainment and festive cheer, Cinema Akil’s 25hours location has curated a special holiday program. Audiences can relive the swashbuckling adventure of THE MASK OF ZORRO, starring Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, offering a thrilling escape into a world of romance and action. And no festive season is complete without HOME ALONE, the heartwarming and hilarious tale of a resourceful young boy left to defend his home against bumbling burglars at Christmas. This timeless classic promises laughter and festive spirit for the whole family.

      Adding to the festive generosity, all screenings at the 25hours Hotel location are free of charge, although reservations are required. This makes it an even more accessible opportunity to enjoy quality cinema during the holiday season.

      Cinema Akil’s diverse December program reinforces its dedication to bringing quality films from around the world to UAE audiences. From thought-provoking documentaries to heartwarming holiday classics, Cinema Akil provides a unique cinematic experience that caters to a wide range of tastes. This festive season, step into the dark and discover the magic of cinema at Cinema Akil.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      International Women’s Day 2023: Meet the 10 women redefining the region’s creative scene

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      To mark the occasion of International Women’s Day, Emirates Woman spotlights on the incredible women across the region redefining their respective industries and challenging the status quo.
      Scroll through to discover the 10 next-gen faces to watch and names to know.
      Fatma Husam, Entreprenuer

      Fatma Husam is a 28-year-old Emirati entrepreneur and influencer with more than half a million Instagram following. Proving she’s more than just a pretty face, Husam is also the founder of Kamin, a luxe abaya label loved by many for its sophisticated silhouettes and contemporary touches. On top of that, she is currently busy building a creative community space called MNBAIN, launching soon at DIFC.
      Nora Mansour Samawi and Amina Debbiche, Co-founders of The Open Crate

      Nora Mansour Samawi and Amina Debbiche are pioneering the future of art collection management with its first-of-its-kind platform, The Open Crate, that allows curators and collectors to digitally store and keep an inventory of physical assets. Through this, Cultural Engineers Samawi and Debbiche aim to document and preserve the cultural legacy by focusing on the Middle East and Africa.
      Rabah Saeid, Founder and Creative Director of Styled Habitat

      Dubai-based Rabah Saeid founded Styled Habitat in 2016, an award-winning interior architectural studio that boasts a portfolio of exclusive VIP clients from art collectors to entrepreneurs. With each project, Saeid puts a sophisticated touch and thoughtful approach to design to many residential, hospitality and commercial spaces in the UAE.
      Sarah Alagroobi, Founder of The Letters Project

      Sarah Alagroobi is the founder of The Letters Project, an online platform that foregrounds the anthropological and sociocultural climate of the Arab region through anonymous letters. The Emirati multi-disciplinary artist, designer and educator puts forward her knowledge and insights on Khaleeji culture and sparks conversations on notions of Emirati stereotypes within both Middle Eastern and Western contexts through her practice and social media – specifically on TikTok with her growing number of following of 21.9K.
      “I hope that my beliefs in advocating for cultural shifts are going to contribute to changes that will speak to the people, for the people, by the people.” Alagroobi tells Emirates Woman.
      Emaan Abbass, Founder of Ketish

      Emaan Abbass is a Dubai-based Egyptian-descent feminine health advocate and founder of Ketish, UAE’s first feminine wellness brand. Launched in 2021 and backed by Huda and Mona Kattan, it provides highly effective and multi-beneficial wellness formulas that are empowering and luxurious in every way.
      By entering the business of health and beauty, Abbass aims to create a safe space and empower women to gain a deeper understanding of topics we normally shy away from – all things body, arousal, desire, and wellness.
      Hessa Al Suwaidi, Designer and Women’s Well-being Advocate

      Emirati textile printed designer and women’s well-being advocate Hessa Al Suwaidi has worked with some of the biggest names in the fashion and art industries. Last year, Al Suwaidi was featured on Prada’s Ramadan and Eid campaigns called “Parallel Harmonies” alongside mountaineer Raha Moharrak and actor Rakan Bin Abdel Wahid. Notably, she has also done a collaboration highlighting traditional Emirati weaving with Bentley Motors for Dubai Design Week.
      Through her projects and works, the young creative expresses her cultural identity and pushes forth her regional roots and inspires women of her to follow their dreams.
      Lina Malaika, Filmmaker and Co-Founder of Clay

      A natural creative, (thanks to years of film production experience that runs in the family) Lina Malaika is an established filmmaker and creative consultant from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Malaika has worked on feature projects for publications in collaboration with luxury and contemporary brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chopard to name a few.
      More recently, she has co-founded Clay with designer Farah Hammad – a modeling agency that champions fresh talent by pushing for visibility to a new generation of faces to boost local careers.
      Maya Chantout, Creative Director

      Syrian creative director Maya Chantout is a revitalizing breath of fresh air.
      Chantout boasts of an impressive line up of design stints at Hermes, Chloe and Celine, as well as being distinguished by LVMH for her graduation collection. Currently she works as an art director and image consultant for fashion brands such as Mirae, Casablanca and Miu Miu where her distinctive bold energy, eclectic spirit and extravagant style have an evident influence. Her unique aesthetic reflects a collage of the two culture she’s been immersed in – from her childhood in Syria and her adult life in Paris.
      “I try my best to encourage people around me to respect their uniqueness and be true to themselves.” Chantout shares in Emirates Woman’s The Confidence Issue.
      Hala Khayat, Regional Director of Art Dubai

      In 2020, Hala Khayat joined Art Dubai as Regional Director where her extensive experience in the Middle Eastern market – specializing in Arab, Iranian and Turkish art – allows her to develop strategies for local and regional collectors’ long-term engagement, one of the driving factors for the continued remarkable success of Art Dubai.
      Khayat is also an advocate for Syria’s art community, which continues to play an integral role by championing young Syrian artists.
      Butheina Hamed Kazim, Founder of Cinema Akil

      Butheina Hamed Kazim is an Emirati founder of Cinema Akil, the Gulf’s first independent arthouse cinema in the GCC region.
      Without a doubt, Kazim has significantly contributed to the UAE’s arts and culture scene,  amplifying current sociocultural and political issues in the region through film festivals and program series. Her love for film has led her to many milestone moments including “Producing the short documentary Letters to Palestine, winner of the Special Jury Prize at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival in 2010” she tells Emirates Woman.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram More