Images via DIAFA
To be recognised by your fellow Arabs for your work in trying to make the Arab world a better place for all is an honour that surpasses all honours. A lifetime of achievements doesn’t come easily, so DIAFA honours those who have accomplished it each year.
What is DIAFA Festival?
The Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards (DIAFA) is an annual luxury gala held in Dubai, created to spotlight figures and organisations from the Arab region and the wider world whose work has left a notable positive mark. The event’s purpose is to acknowledge contributions that elevate communities, industries, and cultural life. This year it was hosted on the 25th and 26th of November.
The Committee of DIAFA
A committee of 25 media professionals and journalists, representing diverse backgrounds and countries, oversees the selection process each year. They evaluate nominees from a broad range of disciplines, including the arts, music, culture, business, economics, entrepreneurship, media, philanthropy, and other influential fields.
Asser Yassin
Known for his versatility, depth, and consistent rise in the film industry, Asser’s early breakthrough came with roles in Zay El Naharda and El Waad, followed by significant acclaim for Rasayel Bahr, which earned him multiple awards for best actor at festivals including Carthage and Malmö.
Yassin continued to build a strong reputation with challenging performances in films like Farsh w Ghata and Aswar El Qamar, showcasing his ability to embody complex, emotionally layered characters.
Today, he stands as one of the most respected actors of his generation, known for choosing bold roles that have helped shape contemporary Egyptian cinema.
Hannah El Zahed
Hannah El Zahed began acting at a young age, later returning to the screen with a series of light-hearted TV roles that highlighted her natural comedic timing and charming on-screen presence. Her performances in successful series such as El Wad Sayed El Shahat and Helwa El Donia Sukkar have solidified her place in the industry. At the same time, her evolving role choices continue to showcase her ambition and versatility.
Ghada Abdelrazek
Ghada Abdelrazek is a prominent Egyptian actor known for her bold screen presence and her ability to command complex, emotionally charged roles.
Rising to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s, she quickly became one of the most influential actors in Egyptian drama, often taking on leading roles that delve into social issues, personal struggle, and strong female perspectives.
Her performances in hit series such as Zahra w Azwageha El Khamsa, Hekayat Hayah, and El Kaboos cemented her reputation as a powerhouse of television drama. At the same time, her film roles further showcased her versatility and willingness to push artistic boundaries.
Amina Khalil
Amina Khalil is a prominent Egyptian actor known for her expressive performances and thoughtful role choices. After studying acting at the American University in Cairo, she gained widespread attention through hit series like Grand Hotel, La Totfe2 Al Shams, and Leh La2.
Her ability to portray strong, sensitive, and complex characters has made her one of the standout talents of her generation. Alongside her success in both film and television, she is also recognised for advocating for women’s issues and bringing authenticity to every role she takes on.
Ahmed Helmy
Ahmed Helmy is one of Egypt’s most beloved actors, known for his sharp wit, warm screen presence, and ability to blend comedy with heartfelt emotion. Rising to fame in the early 2000s, he quickly became a staple of Egyptian cinema through hit films like Zarf Tarek, Zaky Chan, and Keda Reda.
His unique comedic style, often rooted in relatable social themes, helped him build one of the strongest fan bases in the region. Beyond acting, Helmy has also succeeded as a producer, TV personality, and author, reinforcing his status as a versatile and influential figure in contemporary Arab entertainment.
