Saudi film ‘Norah’ selected for Cannes, first from Kingdom in festival’s 77-year history

The Kingdom’s first selection is called “Norah,” filmed entirely in AlUla, directed by Tawfik Alzaidi (left) and set in 1990s Saudi Arabia when conservatism ruled and the pursuit of all art, including painting, was banned. (Supplied)
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Updated 16 April 2024
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Saudi film ‘Norah’ selected for Cannes, first from Kingdom in festival’s 77-year history

  • Film premiered in Saudi Arabia in December at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah
  • Will be included in prestigious “Un Certain Regard” section at Cannes

LONDON: A Saudi film has been named in the Cannes Film Festival’s official selection for the first time, it was announced on Thursday.

The Kingdom’s first selection is called “Norah,” filmed entirely in AlUla, directed by Tawfik Alzaidi and set in 1990s Saudi Arabia when conservatism ruled and the pursuit of all art, including painting, was banned.

It follows the story of Nader, a failed artist who becomes a schoolteacher, played by Yaqoub Alfarhan, who assists the eponymous young girl, played by Maria Bahrawi, to realize her artistic potential in an oppressive rural setting.




Maria Bahrawi on the set of ‘Norah,’ in AlUla. (Supplied)

The film premiered in Saudi Arabia in December at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah and it will be included in the prestigious “Un Certain Regard” section of the French film festival, which recognizes new talent and unconventional narratives and runs alongside the famous “Palme D’Or” competition.

“Norah” will be in competition with 19 other films from around the world.

Speaking to Arab News in November last year before its premiere, Alzaidi said that he hoped it would inspire future generations to never let a dream die.

“I don’t think this is a film that’s trying to have one message — art is subjective, after all,” he said. “But when audiences of the next generation see this film, I want them to remember one thing: Believe in yourself. And if you have a voice, never stop fighting for it.” 




Saudi filmmaker Tawfik Alzaidi’s masterful directorial debut 'Norah' is the first Saudi film to be shot entirely in the Kingdom’s historic AlUla region. (Supplied)

Bahrawi echoed Alzaidi’s sentiments, adding that playing Norah in the film inspired her to not allow anything to dissuade her from fulfilling her potential.

“(Norah) taught me to be myself, to be true to my own spirit, and stand up for myself despite all the challenges,” she told Arab News in an interview. “From now and for the rest of my life, because of Norah, if I don’t find support, I will support myself. I want to find success, and I’ll do it against all odds.” 

Saudi Arabia lifted its 35-year ban on cinema in 2017 and has since seen its burgeoning film scene go from strength to strength, including building a strong relationship with the Cannes festival since first having a delegation there in 2018.

The 2024 festival will run from May 14 to May 25.


Yataghan boutique in Jeddah celebrates Saudi heritage

Updated 20 December 2025
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Yataghan boutique in Jeddah celebrates Saudi heritage

JEDDAH: Yataghan, the contemporary Saudi jewelry house founded in 2008 by designer and entrepreneur Sarah Abudawood, has announced an expansion with its Riyadh debut at Kingdom Centre, alongside the relocation of its headquarters and flagship store to a street-front location on Jeddah’s Thalia Street.

The brand, known for blending Arabian heritage with modern minimalism, unveiled two boutiques designed as immersive experiences rather than mere retail spaces.

Every detail of the new Jeddah location has been carefully curated; brass accents inspired by the Yataghan blade evoke precision and luxury, while striped, gray onyx symbolizes continuity and progress, according to the brand’s founder. Vast windows, softened by Yataghan’s signature hexagonal motif, a symbol of harmony, order, and strength, flood the boutiques with natural light, creating an inviting environment for visitors.

Inspired by the Yataghan sword, with its distinctive, single-edged blade, the brand’s collections fuse minimalist design with Arabic calligraphy and tribal motifs.

“The name Yataghan draws its meaning from the two swords on the Saudi flag — a symbol that has always fascinated me for what it represents: conviction, protection, truth, and above all, balance,” Abudawood told Arab News.

“The Yataghan sword, known for its graceful curve and exquisite craftsmanship, embodies purpose and precision. It is drawn to defend what matters and to guard what is sacred. It sets boundaries and restores equilibrium, reminding us that strength is not only about force, but about knowing when to advance and when to stand still.

“That balance is reflected in every piece we create. Because, like the sword, Yataghan is more than an ornament; it is a statement of purpose, and identity.”

Abudawood explained the cultural inspiration behind the brand, highlighting pieces connected to Saudi identity. “This branch carries designs that are deeply connected to Saudi identity and cultural memory. Some pieces are exclusive, inspired by symbols, rhythms, and forms rooted in our heritage, interpreted through a modern lens … Jeddah, in particular, has a unique spirit: fluid, expressive, open, and layered with history. That essence subtly informs the designs you’ll find here.” 

The founder also spoke of the brand’s philosophy of minimalism and meaningful design.

“It comes from my belief that simplicity creates space for meaning. I have always been drawn to architecture and the principle that form must follow function. I design with intention; nothing is accidental. Every line has a purpose, every curve holds a story. Minimalism, for me, is not about removing emotion; it is about distilling it. I want each piece to feel timeless, personal, and quietly powerful.”

The label has been flaunted by high-profile clients — including Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga and Lama Akeel — but Abudawood emphasized the brand’s focus on connection over visibility. “Whether someone is a public figure or not, what moves me is when they feel seen by the jewelry. Yataghan has always been about resonance, about creating pieces that speak to identity, strength, and personal stories,” she said.

Looking ahead, 2026 will mark new chapters for Yataghan, including local and international expansion, innovative collections, and a stronger focus on storytelling and community collaborations. “Growth has never been about reach alone; it’s about depth, integrity, and lasting impact,” Abudawood added.

“Ultimately, what drives me is purpose. I’m motivated by the desire to create work that matters, to offer women something that reflects who they are, not who they’re expected to be. Design, for me, is a form of dialogue, a way to translate emotion into form. As long as I’m creating with honesty, intention, and heart, I know I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”