Egyptian-American soprano and actress Shereen Ahmed joined Zeinab and Sami on Nile FM&rsquo;s &ldquo;The Big Drive&rdquo; to discuss her journey in musical theatre, her Egyptian-American identity, her recent performance at the El Gouna Film Festival, and her upcoming concert at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on 11 December 2026.
Known for her work in musical theatre, Ahmed reflected on the experiences that shaped her career, from making her Broadway debut to performing at the opening ceremony of the Grand Egyptian Museum in 2025.
An Unexpected Journey to Broadway
Ahmed is best known for her role as Eliza Doolittle in the Lincoln Center Theater revival of &lsquo;My Fair Lady.&rsquo; She made her Broadway debut in the production in 2018 as an ensemble cast member and understudy for the leading role before taking on the lead in the show's North American tour in 2019. She became the first Egyptian-American and Middle Eastern actor to star as Eliza Doolittle in a major American production.
However, her journey into performing arts was not straightforward. During the interview, Ahmed revealed that she initially pursued a degree in criminal justice before deciding to follow her passion for acting and musical theatre.
&ldquo;I've always been a performer, like, ever since I was a kid, I just, I would dance on tables for my family, and, like, try to perform and just make people happy,&rdquo; she said.
After graduating, Ahmed began building her theatrical skills through voice lessons, dance, and acting classes before moving to New York. Just two weeks after arriving, she attended an open casting call for her first Broadway audition and landed the role.
&ldquo;I had no agent, no union, no credits to my name, just this degree that has nothing to do with theatre,&rdquo; she recalled, describing the experience as an unexpected turning point in her career.
Acting, Singing, and Finding Her Identity
Although Ahmed is widely recognised as a soprano, she explained that she identifies more closely with acting, which allows her to express herself through an entire character.
&ldquo;I actually think of myself more as an actor who uses my voice to tell a story if needed,&rdquo; she said.
Ahmed also discussed the differences between performing as a character and appearing on stage as herself. While portraying another person allows her to focus on a character's story, performing as herself can feel more personal.
&ldquo;I get stage fright sometimes when I have to be myself, 'cause I'm like, what if they don't like me? If they don't like me, it's me,&rdquo; she explained.
She added that her approach to acting centres on finding genuine human experiences within each role.
&ldquo;I'm really interested in telling interesting stories about human beings that connect us,&rdquo; Ahmed said.
The actress also reflected on how her Egyptian-American background shapes her identity, explaining that she does not consciously choose between her two cultures.
&ldquo;It's not like I choose an identity when I wake up. You know, it's not like clothes,&rdquo; she said, adding that her heritage remains part of who she is, even when she is focused on bringing a character to life.
The Challenge of Performing on Broadway
Reflecting on some of the most demanding experiences of her career, Ahmed described performing in &lsquo;My Fair Lady&rsquo; as physically and artistically challenging.
She explained that the production required eight performances a week, with each show lasting approximately three hours and involving continuous singing, dancing, dialogue, and costume changes.
&ldquo;These performers are, like, athletes. You have to be an athlete to take care of your instrument, and to give the best performance possible,&rdquo; she said.
Ahmed also spoke about performing at the Grand Egyptian Museum's opening ceremony in 2025, describing it as a different kind of challenge because she was presenting herself as an artist rather than hiding behind a character.
She admitted that she did not fully understand the scale of the event until after the performance, when she realised the significance of having participated in such a historic occasion.
Shereen Ahmed Performs in Arabic at El Gouna Film Festival
Ahmed also reflected on her performance at the El Gouna Film Festival, where she performed a medley blending &ldquo;What a Wonderful World&rdquo; with Dalida&rsquo;s iconic Egyptian song &ldquo;Helwa Ya Baladi,&rdquo; marking her first time singing in Arabic.
Ahmed explained that director Hani Abaza, who also directed the Grand Egyptian Museum's opening ceremony, approached her with the idea of singing in Arabic for the first time. Initially hesitant, she eventually embraced the opportunity after they decided to combine an Arabic classic with an English-language song.
&ldquo;When it came to the offer for GFF, Hani Abaza, who was an incredible director and also directed the GEM opening, reached out, and he's like, &lsquo;Okay, I have an idea. You sing in Arabic for the first time, ever.&rsquo; And I was like, &lsquo;No. No. No. I'm terrified,&rsquo;&rdquo; she recalled.
The idea developed into a musical collaboration built around two songs that could convey hope. Ahmed explained that the choice of &ldquo;What a Wonderful World&rdquo; and the Arabic song allowed her to explore a new musical experience while sharing a message she felt audiences needed.
&ldquo;When I first heard the idea for El Gouna Film Festival, I was like, you know, this is exactly what the world needs right now. The world is scary. And what songs exude hope?&rdquo; she said.
Ahmed also described the experience as nerve-racking, given the significance of performing in Arabic for the first time. She revealed that she repeatedly practised the song with her father to ensure she did justice to the iconic piece.
&ldquo;I was calling my dad every day. I was like, &lsquo;Okay, Baba, let's go through it again. Let's go through it again,&rsquo;&rdquo; she said.
Reflecting on the Egyptian audience's response, Ahmed noted that Egyptian audiences tend to express their enthusiasm more openly than audiences in the United States.
&ldquo;Egyptians are so passionate. Like, they will let you know if they like something or if they don't like something,&rdquo; she said, recalling how audience members began clapping, standing up, and dancing during her performance at the festival.
Returning to the Grand Egyptian Museum
Ahmed is scheduled to return to the Grand Egyptian Museum on 11 December 2026, for Greatest Hits Symphonic, a concert featuring mezzo-soprano Gala El Hadidi and conductor Nader Abbassi.
Reflecting on her return, Ahmed described performing in Egypt as a long-held dream, explaining that she had always hoped to come back and share her music with Egyptian audiences.
&ldquo;I feel like I was a part of history, and I feel honoured that I was a part of this ceremony, and to represent Egypt in that way,&rdquo; she said of the museum's opening.
She added that returning for the upcoming concert carries a special personal meaning.
&ldquo;Coming back this year, 11 December, feels like a homecoming,&rdquo; Ahmed said.
Broadway Meets Cinema in a Symphonic Celebration
The upcoming concert will feature music from films and musicals, with familiar songs reimagined through symphonic arrangements. Ahmed explained that the programme will combine well-known favourites with selections from musicals that audiences may not have encountered before.
&ldquo;I've always wanted to bring Broadway to Egypt. I didn't know how,&rdquo; she said.
She also revealed that the concert will include music inspired by iconic film soundtracks, including James Bond themes, offering audiences a different way to experience familiar compositions.
For Ahmed, the event is an opportunity to introduce more people to musical theatre and symphonic performances in an accessible setting.
&ldquo;The word opera can be really scary for some people,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;But this is not opera at all. This is more... this is accessible. This is pop.&rdquo;
She encouraged audiences to approach the concert as an entertaining musical experience, with recognisable songs and contemporary arrangements.
&ldquo;Symphony concerts don't have to be stuffy. And this is not stuffy,&rdquo; Ahmed added.
Looking Ahead to New Roles
Beyond the upcoming concert, Ahmed revealed that she is interested in originating new roles and expanding her work in television and film. While she values performing in revivals and finding new ways to interpret established works, she hopes to contribute to original productions.
&ldquo;I really want to do new work,&rdquo; she said, explaining that she would like to originate roles and explore the different forms of expression offered by film and television.
As she continues to develop her career across theatre, music, and screen, Ahmed remains focused on working with creative teams who are willing to take risks and tell meaningful stories.
With her return to the Grand Egyptian Museum approaching, the upcoming concert will bring together her passion for musical theatre, her love of cinema, and her connection to Egypt in a celebration of music across cultures.
Photo Credit: Shereen Ahmed's official page&nbsp;

Shereen Ahmed Joins Nile FM’s “The Big Drive” Ahead Of Grand Egyptian Museum Concert

Egyptian DJ and electronic music producer Mohasseb joined Nancy on Nile FM&rsquo;s &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s Dance&rdquo; to discuss his journey in electronic music, the evolution of Egypt&rsquo;s dance music scene, his international performances, and the experiences that have shaped his career.
From Bedroom DJ to International Stages
Mohasseb began his music career in the early 2000s as a bedroom DJ, gradually moving from house parties with friends to performing at official venues in 2009.
Reflecting on his beginnings, Mohasseb explained that he had always dreamed of becoming a DJ, although he never imagined his career would grow to its current scale.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve always manifested that I wanna be a DJ in the DJ booth, but I&rsquo;ve never, never, never would have thought it would reach here,&rdquo; he said.
Before the widespread availability of online music platforms, he relied on CDs and friends returning from abroad to discover new music. He also became known among his friends for creating and sharing mixtapes, developing his skills through experimentation and hands-on experience.
The Evolution of Egypt&rsquo;s Electronic Music Scene
During the interview, Mohasseb discussed how Egypt&rsquo;s electronic music scene has grown over the years, highlighting changes in audiences, venues, and the role of DJs in the nightlife industry.
He noted that DJs have become more prominent, with venues increasingly designed around the DJ booth and audiences more engaged with the artists performing.
&ldquo;The main thing about the night is that DJ and the music is playing,&rdquo; he said, describing how the DJ has become central to the nightlife experience.
Mohasseb also highlighted the development of Egypt&rsquo;s nightlife and festival scene, pointing to the growing presence of international artists and the country&rsquo;s distinctive performance locations.
However, he acknowledged that some aspects of the earlier scene have changed, particularly the way audiences experience music.
&ldquo;Back then, you go out just for the music,&rdquo; he explained, reflecting on a time before smartphones and social media became central to nightlife.
Cairo Jazz Club: A Home Away From Home
Mohasseb also spoke about his long-standing relationship with Cairo Jazz Club, where his Mohasseb &amp; Friends night became one of the venue&rsquo;s established events.
The event celebrated its 14th anniversary in April 2026, reflecting his continued presence in Egypt&rsquo;s electronic music scene.
Describing the connection, Mohasseb explained that the venue had become like home to him, where he had grown as an artist, experimented with music, and built a loyal audience over the years.
&ldquo;For me, what kept this connection alive, it&rsquo;s, we&rsquo;re family,&rdquo; he said, describing the relationship between himself, the venue, and its audience.
He added that performing there had become part of his routine, emphasizing the importance of the community he had built throughout his residency.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s like my oxygen,&rdquo; Mohasseb said, describing how deeply the venue had become part of his life.
Finding His Sound as a Music Producer
The discussion also explored Mohasseb&rsquo;s approach to music production and the development of his melodic techno sound, with his productions reaching Beatport&rsquo;s Top 100 melodic techno charts.
He explained that his creative process is often influenced by the music he is listening to at a particular time, using tracks he admires as references when beginning a new production.
However, he emphasized the importance of creating memorable melodies and grooves that keep audiences engaged on the dance floor.
&ldquo;For me, melody is very important. I think this is the most important thing, the melody or the hook of the track,&rdquo; he explained.
He added that a strong groove is equally essential, as it keeps listeners dancing, while a memorable melody gives them something to take away from the experience.
Mohasseb also highlighted the importance of developing a personal musical identity rather than simply following current trends.
&ldquo;The track has to be even; it speaks about me, you know? It&rsquo;s like what I am, you know?&rdquo; he said, explaining how he wants his productions to reflect his personality and artistic identity.
From Egypt to the International Stage
Mohasseb reflected on his international journey, describing his debut performance in Greece in 2015 as a turning point in his career.
He recalled that performing abroad fulfilled a long-held ambition to tour internationally and share his music with audiences around the world.
&ldquo;This is what I dreamed of always since I started thinking about becoming a DJ, that I wanted to tour the world,&rdquo; he said.
The experience opened doors to further international bookings, with Greece remaining a regular destination for his performances.
Traveling, however, taught him the importance of adapting his sets to different audiences and musical cultures.
Mohasseb explained that a track that works well with an Egyptian crowd might not have the same impact elsewhere, making it essential for DJs to understand the atmosphere and respond to the audience in front of them.
&ldquo;You always have to have a plan B and plan C,&rdquo; he said, emphasizing the importance of flexibility when performing for different crowds.
He added that DJs must study their surroundings, understand the audience&rsquo;s energy, and remain prepared to adjust their selections throughout a performance.
Learning From Other Artists
Mohasseb also discussed sharing stages with internationally recognized artists, explaining that these experiences offered valuable lessons beyond music.
He highlighted the importance of observing other performers&rsquo; technical skills, punctuality, and professionalism, while emphasizing that inspiration can also come from Egypt&rsquo;s local DJ and producer community.
&ldquo;You always have to have the room that you want to learn more, or you want to improve more,&rdquo; he said, encouraging artists to remain open to learning regardless of whom they perform alongside.
According to Mohasseb, staying adaptable is essential for artists who want to sustain long-term careers in an evolving industry.
&ldquo;The market changes every couple of years, the music changes, the trial changes, the mindset changes, so you have to always be on top of that,&rdquo; he explained.
Mohasseb&rsquo;s appearance on Nile FM&rsquo;s &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s Dance&rdquo; offered listeners insight into the experiences behind his career, from his early days experimenting with music at home to performing internationally and building a lasting presence in Egypt&rsquo;s electronic music scene.
&nbsp;

Mohasseb Opens Up About His International Journey On Nile FM’s “Let’s Dance”

Christina Lyon, founder and artistic director of Gala de Danza and a former professional ballet dancer, joined Zeinab and Sami on Nile FM&rsquo;s &lsquo;The Big Drive&rsquo; show to discuss her career and the upcoming Egyptian debut of the international performing arts event.
Gala de Danza will take place at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza on 5 November 2026. The ninth edition will bring together international dancers, musicians and emerging artists for an evening celebrating dance, music and art.
Founded by Lyon in 2013, Gala de Danza has previously presented performances in Los Cabos, Mexico, and London. The Cairo event marks its first appearance in the Middle East and North Africa region.
From Professional Ballet Dancer To Artistic Director
Lyon trained at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy and the School of American Ballet before joining American Ballet Theatre at the age of 16. Her career as a professional dancer later inspired her to establish a platform bringing internationally recognised artists together while supporting arts education.
According to her official biography, Lyon performed internationally and worked with artists including Mikhail Baryshnikov and Dame Margot Fonteyn. She subsequently founded Gala de Danza to create cultural experiences connecting artists, audiences and arts education initiatives.
In the interview with Nile FM, Lyon reflected on the qualities she developed through dance.
&ldquo;I think dance gives you grace, it gives you discipline,&rdquo; she said.
The Story Behind Gala De Danza
Founded in 2013 in Los Cabos, Mexico, Gala de Danza was established to bring performers and audiences together through live performances spanning dance, music and other artistic disciplines.
The organisation's work also includes educational initiatives designed to support young performers and encourage greater engagement with the arts.
For Lyon, mentoring emerging artists remains an important part of her work.
&ldquo;I love to mentor artists,&rdquo; she said, describing her commitment to helping young performers develop their abilities and pursue their ambitions.
Gala De Danza's Egyptian Debut
The 2026 edition will feature artists associated with leading international dance companies, including The Royal Ballet and Dutch National Ballet.
The published cast includes Royal Ballet principal dancers Francesca Hayward and Cesar Corrales, Dutch National Ballet principal dancer Yuanyuan Zhang, and Dutch National Ballet dancer Luca Abdel-Nour. Other performers include classical pianist Ilia Papoian, singer-songwriter Avalon Rivera and Saudi opera singer Sawsan Albahiti. The cast remains subject to change.
The event will also feature young performers from Egypt as part of its educational outreach programme, creating opportunities for local talent to perform alongside established international artists.
Lyon described the event as an opportunity to celebrate Egypt's cultural heritage while bringing different artistic traditions together.
&ldquo;I think the Egyptian culture is really the birthplace of civilisation, of art and culture, and I think we really want to do justice to that,&rdquo; she said.
Luca Abdel-Nour Returns To Egypt
Egyptian-born dancer and choreographer Luca Abdel-Nour is among the performers scheduled to appear at Gala de Danza in Cairo.
A member of Dutch National Ballet, where he holds the rank of coryph&eacute;e, Abdel-Nour will collaborate with company colleague Yuanyuan Zhang, a principal dancer, on a performance choreographed by Abdel-Nour.
The collaboration will bring together two artists from the same company for a performance at the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Lyon praised Abdel-Nour's talent and highlighted the significance of his return to Egypt as a professional dancer.
&ldquo;What a fabulous talent, first and foremost, and how remarkable that you have Luca returning to his homeland as a professional dancer for the first time,&rdquo; she said.
Bringing Cultures Together Through Art
Gala de Danza brings together classical and contemporary dance, music and other artistic disciplines. Its Cairo edition will feature performers from international companies alongside musicians and emerging talent.
For Lyon, the arts offer a way to connect people across cultures and backgrounds.
&ldquo;I think art is for humanity,&rdquo; she said.
She also highlighted the experience of attending live performances and the connection that develops between artists and audiences.
&ldquo;There&rsquo;s something that you cannot replicate just by watching YouTube or looking on our screens today,&rdquo; she explained. &ldquo;Seeing this live is wonderful, because you have a connection between audience and artist.&rdquo;
## A Performance At The Grand Egyptian Museum
The Grand Egyptian Museum, located near the Pyramids of Giza, will host the event on 5 November 2026.
The performance is presented by GEM Experience and will combine dance, music and art in the setting of one of Egypt's major cultural landmarks. The event's organisers describe the production as a meeting point between classical and contemporary artistic expression and Egypt's historical heritage.
Supporting The Next Generation Of Artists
Arts education and opportunities for young performers form part of Gala de Danza's stated mission. Its Cairo edition includes an educational outreach initiative inviting young people from local schools to perform alongside international artists.
Lyon has spoken about the importance of creativity and exposing children to the arts, particularly through live performances.
&ldquo;I think this is something that&rsquo;s not a luxury,&rdquo; she said, emphasising the value of making artistic experiences accessible to young people.
Believing In Yourself And Celebrating The Arts
Reflecting on her career, Lyon highlighted self-belief, discipline and resilience as important qualities for anyone pursuing a creative profession.
&ldquo;I would say it comes down to belief in oneself,&rdquo; she said.
Through Gala de Danza, Lyon continues to bring artists together through live performance while supporting opportunities for emerging talent.
The Cairo edition will take place at the Grand Egyptian Museum on 5 November 2026, marking the organisation's first appearance in the MENA region.

Gala De Danza To Make Middle East Debut At The Grand Egyptian Museum In Cairo

What happens when you fall in love with someone&rsquo;s potential rather than accepting who they really are? In the latest episode of 'Reel vs. Real,' Mel Masry revisits 500 Days of Summer to explore romantic projection, unrequited love and the danger of mistaking rejection for a challenge.
Sometimes, the hardest part of letting go is not losing a relationship. It is letting go of the future we imagined with someone who never promised us one.
That is the uncomfortable reality at the heart of 500 Days of Summer, the 2009 romantic comedy-drama starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel. Through the story of Tom Hansen and Summer Finn, the film challenges the familiar belief that persistence will eventually be rewarded with love. It asks whether we can become so attached to our own romantic narratives that we stop listening to the people standing in front of us.
In the latest episode of 'Reel vs. Real,' Mel Masry examines how cinema shapes our expectations of romance, and how easily we can mistake the future we want for one another person has actually promised.
<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/8Fm93_K5VW0" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
The Word That Was Never There
Summer is clear about not wanting a serious relationship. Tom initially accepts this, but as their connection develops, he begins to hope that it will eventually become something more.
The difference is subtle but significant. Summer&rsquo;s willingness to spend time with Tom and share moments of intimacy does not necessarily mean she wants the committed relationship he imagines.
Tom struggles to separate what they have from what he hopes they will become. Instead of accepting their different expectations, he holds on to the possibility that Summer will eventually see things as he does.
It is a familiar pattern in romantic storytelling. We are encouraged to believe that the right person, the right gesture or enough persistence can change someone&rsquo;s mind. But real relationships do not follow a script, and another person&rsquo;s feelings are not a puzzle to be solved through determination.
Enjoying someone&rsquo;s company does not necessarily mean wanting a committed relationship. Attraction does not guarantee commitment, and spending time together does not promise a particular ending.
Tom&rsquo;s struggle begins when he allows his hopes for the relationship to outweigh what Summer has communicated about her expectations.
The Split Screen That Reveals Everything
One of the film&rsquo;s most revealing sequences takes place when Tom attends a party at Summer&rsquo;s apartment. The screen splits into two, contrasting his expectations with reality.
In Tom&rsquo;s imagination, the evening offers the possibility of rekindling their romance. In reality, he discovers that Summer is engaged.
The sequence makes visible something that often happens without our noticing. We construct scenes in our minds, anticipate conversations that have not happened and interpret small gestures as evidence that the future we want is finally within reach.
We cast people in roles they never agreed to play, then feel betrayed when their actual choices do not match the story we created.
Tom&rsquo;s disappointment is real, but the film invites us to examine what it is built on. Is he grieving only the relationship they shared, or is he also mourning the future he believed was waiting for him?
The distinction does not make heartbreak less painful. It challenges us, however, to recognise the difference between what another person has offered and what we have imagined they might offer one day.
How Romantic Comedies Shaped Our Expectations
For generations, romantic comedies have relied on a familiar formula. One person pursues another, obstacles stand in their way, and persistence eventually leads to a happy ending.
Within this formula, rejection can become a temporary setback rather than a boundary. The person who keeps trying is framed as devoted, while the person who says no is often expected to change their mind once they recognise the pursuer&rsquo;s sincerity.
500 Days of Summer challenges this familiar narrative. Tom sees himself as the romantic lead in a story whose ending he believes he understands. Summer, meanwhile, is living her own life, with feelings and decisions that do not necessarily fit his expectations.
The film&rsquo;s central tension comes from these two different perspectives. Tom&rsquo;s romantic ideals are not inherently wrong, but they become problematic when he treats them as more important than Summer&rsquo;s wishes.
Persistence may be celebrated on screen, but continuing to pursue someone who has clearly declined a relationship is not proof of love. Respecting their decision is.
The film asks viewers to reconsider the stories that have shaped their understanding of romance, particularly the idea that loving someone deeply should eventually entitle us to their love in return.
Falling for Potential Instead of Reality
Tom does not simply fall for Summer. He also falls for what he believes she represents and the future he imagines they could build together.
This is the trap of romantic projection: seeing not only who someone is, but who we hope they will become, how we imagine they will change and how perfectly they might fit into our lives if everything unfolds as planned.
It happens when we focus on someone&rsquo;s potential rather than their present choices. We tell ourselves that they might eventually want commitment, become more emotionally available or see the relationship as we do. In the process, we risk overlooking the information they have already given us.
The problem is not having hope. It is allowing hope to replace reality.
Summer does not have to become the person Tom imagines her to be, just as Tom does not have to abandon his desire for a committed relationship. Their different expectations do not automatically make either person the villain. They reveal an incompatibility that cannot be resolved simply by one person wanting the relationship more intensely.
A relationship requires two people who freely choose one another, not one person waiting for the other to become a character in an imagined ending.
Stop Casting. Start Listening.
Perhaps the most challenging aspect of 500 Days of Summer is how easily viewers can sympathise with Tom while overlooking the perspective he struggles to accept.
His disappointment feels familiar because many people have experienced unrequited love, imagined a future with someone or held on to the possibility that another person&rsquo;s feelings might change. But recognising that pain does not mean treating rejection as an invitation to keep trying.
The film encourages a different kind of romantic courage: the willingness to see someone as they are, rather than as the person we hope they might become.
That means listening when someone tells us what they want, accepting that affection does not always lead to commitment and understanding that another person&rsquo;s decision is not a judgement on our worth.
Love cannot be earned through persistence alone, and another person&rsquo;s feelings are not a reward for refusing to give up. Sometimes, the most respectful choice is to accept that two people want different things and allow each of them to move forward.
Tom&rsquo;s story is not simply about heartbreak. It is about the consequences of confusing our expectations with someone else&rsquo;s intentions.
As Mel Masry explores in 'Reel vs. Real,' the challenge is to stop casting people in our stories and start listening to theirs.
Watch 'Reel vs. Real' with Mel Masry every Sunday at 5pm on NileFM&rsquo;s YouTube channel, where familiar films spark conversations about the difference between what we see on screen and what we experience in real life.
Photo Credit: 500 Days of Summer's official page &nbsp;

Reel vs. Real: Mel Masry Unpacks Love And Romantic Illusions in “500 Days of Summer”

Egyptian-American soprano and actress Shereen Ahmed will join Zeinab and Sami on Nile FM&rsquo;s &ldquo;The Big Drive&rdquo; on Monday, 26 October 2026, from 5pm to 7pm.
Ahmed is best known for her work in musical theatre, particularly her role as Eliza Doolittle in the Lincoln Center Theater revival of &lsquo;My Fair Lady&rsquo;. She made her Broadway debut in the production in 2018 as an ensemble cast member and understudy for the leading role. In 2019, she took on the role of Eliza Doolittle in the show&rsquo;s North American tour, becoming the first Egyptian-American and Middle Eastern actor to star as Eliza in a major American production.
Ahmed also performed at the opening ceremony of the Grand Egyptian Museum in 2025. She is scheduled to return to the museum on 11 December 2026 for a concert featuring mezzo-soprano Gala El Hadidi, accompanied by conductor Nader Abbassi. The programme will feature music from films and musicals.
Tune in to &ldquo;The Big Drive&rdquo; with Zeinab and Sami on Monday, 26 October, from 5pm to 7pm to hear Ahmed share insights into her career and experiences on the international stage.

Egyptian-American Soprano Shereen Ahmed To Join Nile FM’s “The Big Drive”

All the latest entertainment news from Nile FM. TV Shows, Movies, Trailers, Clips, International & Arab Celebrity Gossip, Awards, Events & Best Dressed Lists.

Entertainment

By: Yomna Walid&nbsp;
A childhood passion for photography helped set Egyptian director Mohamed Taher on the path to filmmaking. Now, his directorial debut, &lsquo;32B: Mashakel Dakheliyya&rsquo;, has earned international recognition, winning Best Narrative Short at the 2026 Tribeca Festival and qualifying for consideration at the Academy Awards.
Taher&rsquo;s journey from taking photographs with his father&rsquo;s camera at the age of nine to directing an award-winning short film marks a significant milestone in his career. Following its success at Tribeca, &lsquo;32B&rsquo; continued its international festival run, with an official selection at the HollyShorts Film Festival in Los Angeles in August 2026.
<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/9BVpCRnce9g" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
Written by Haitham Dabbour, the film stars Mohamed Mamdouh, Hana Shiha, Ahmed Dash, Gehad Hossam El Din and Jessica Hosam El Din. Blending dark comedy with poignant family drama, it explores the emotional complexities of parenthood and the relationship between parents and their children.
The film is set to become available to stream online on Thursday, 22 October 2026.
In an exclusive interview with NileFM, Taher discusses his journey into filmmaking, the creative decisions behind &lsquo;32B: Mashakel Dakheliyya&rsquo; and the film&rsquo;s growing international recognition.
What first inspired you to become a director, and how has your journey evolved since then?
I started taking photographs when I was nine years old, using my father&rsquo;s camera. I always loved documenting moments and was fascinated by people&rsquo;s reactions when they saw their pictures. As I grew older, this passion evolved into making short videos on my home computer using simple editing software, putting together scenes from my favorite films and adding music to them. I loved the process and received compliments for my work.
After graduating, I worked as an accountant at a petroleum company for four years. Eventually, I realized that I wasn&rsquo;t emotionally connected to my job, so I started searching for something that truly reflected my passion. I went back to school to study cinema, initially focusing on cinematography, then producing, before finally settling on directing during my MFA.
I have always been fascinated by human behavior and by how cinema can express emotions that people struggle to articulate, as well as the contradictions that exist within us.
My journey has taken me through different roles in the film industry, including working as an assistant director on feature films and directing second units for television. Those experiences taught me a great deal about storytelling, actors, and the filmmaking process. But they also made me increasingly aware of the stories I wanted to tell myself.
As I continue to develop my work, I find myself increasingly drawn to stories about human vulnerability, emotional distance, and the ways we struggle to connect with one another.
<a href="https://ibb.co/YThtt7kx"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/wr4KKNWf/1.png" alt="1" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
What first drew you to the story of&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;?
What drew me to&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;was the contradiction at the heart of its story. A father wants to do the right thing for his daughter, but he has no idea how to approach a subject that should be completely natural. Something as simple as buying a piece of clothing becomes an emotional obstacle because neither of them knows how to communicate about it.
Haitham Dabbour captured this struggle beautifully in his script, and I completely fell in love with it. When I first read it, I was struck by how something so ordinary could reveal much deeper issues within a family and the society they live in. The father is simply unequipped to deal with a situation that challenges everything he understands about being a parent.
The film explores the relationship between parents and their children. How do you see this relationship changing today?
I think the relationship is changing, but not necessarily as quickly as we might imagine. Children today have access to information, ideas, and conversations that previous generations could barely imagine. They are growing up in a world that is more connected, yet that doesn&rsquo;t automatically mean they feel more understood by their parents.
In many families, there is still a gap between what parents want their children to know and what they feel comfortable talking to them about. Parents often believe they are protecting their children by avoiding difficult conversations, when that silence can sometimes leave children feeling alone with their questions.
I also think becoming a parent has made me look at this relationship differently. You begin to realize that parenting isn&rsquo;t simply about knowing what to teach your children; it&rsquo;s also about confronting your own fears, insecurities, and limitations.
&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;won Best Narrative Short at Tribeca. What has this recognition meant to you personally and professionally?
Winning Best Narrative Short at Tribeca was an incredibly meaningful moment for me. Seeing&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;connect with the jury at a festival like Tribeca was deeply rewarding, and it has definitely given my career a push forward. The award has also given the film a new level of visibility.
But what I value most is that a story rooted in a very specific Egyptian social and cultural context has resonated internationally.
On a personal level, the recognition means a great deal because this is my first short film as a director. There is something particularly special about seeing your first film find its way into the world and be embraced by audiences and industry professionals beyond the context in which it was made.
For me, the award isn&rsquo;t a destination as much as an encouragement to keep taking creative risks and telling stories that feel honest.
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The film is a dark comedy. What was the biggest challenge in telling this story through the genre?
The biggest challenge was finding the right balance between humor and discomfort without undermining the emotional reality of the characters.
The situation in&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;is inherently awkward, and that awkwardness can be funny. But I never wanted the daughter or the father to become the punchline. The humor needed to emerge naturally from the father&rsquo;s confusion, his attempts to navigate an unfamiliar situation, and the social expectations that have shaped his behavior.
For me, dark comedy works best when the audience can laugh at a situation and then realize there is something much more uncomfortable underneath it. You recognize the absurdity of what is happening, but you also understand why the characters are behaving that way.
The challenge was to avoid exaggerating the comedy or making the film feel like a sketch. We needed to preserve the emotional truth of the relationship and allow the awkward silences, gestures, and small misunderstandings to carry as much weight as the dialogue.
I wanted the audience to laugh, but also to recognize something familiar in that laughter. Perhaps a memory of a conversation they never had with their parents, or one they are still struggling to have with their own children.
That tension between laughter and discomfort is what makes the story meaningful to me.
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The film&rsquo;s festival journey continues with its selection for the 62nd Chicago International Film Festival and the Fun Cinema International Comedy Film Festival. What are you hoping for as the film continues its journey?
I&rsquo;m grateful that&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;continues to find new audiences and that its journey is taking it into different cultural contexts. Every festival brings a new conversation, and I&rsquo;m always curious to see how people respond to a story that begins in such a specific Egyptian setting.
What excites me most is the possibility of the film connecting with audiences who may have grown up in very different circumstances but recognize the same emotional dynamics within their own families. The details may change from one culture to another, but the difficulty of talking to our children about uncomfortable subjects is something many people can relate to.
I&rsquo;m also happy to see the film reaching festivals that approach cinema from different perspectives. Its recognition at Tribeca was a major milestone, and its continued selection at international festivals allows the film to keep evolving through its encounters with audiences.
Ultimately, I hope&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;continues to travel. If the film can make someone laugh, reflect on their own relationship with their family, and feel a little less alone in their difficulties, then I think it has accomplished something worthwhile.
At the same time, this journey has been an important experience for me as a director. It has strengthened my belief in telling culturally specific stories with emotional honesty and trusting that their humanity can reach far beyond their original setting.
What were the biggest challenges you faced while making&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;?
One of the biggest challenges was recreating Cairo in 2005 in a way that felt authentic without making the period feel overly constructed. Working with our production designer, Asem Ali, was essential in building that world through the details of the locations, the production design, and the atmosphere of the time.
Another important challenge was finding the right visual language for the story with our cinematographer, Mostafa Fahmy. I wanted the cinematography to do more than simply capture the action; it needed to communicate what the characters couldn&rsquo;t express verbally, and Mostafa did an amazing job of bringing that vision to life.
For example, in the lingerie shop scene, we used lighting and composition to add layers of discomfort and awkwardness to an already uncomfortable situation. I wanted the audience to feel the father&rsquo;s unease rather than simply observe it.
Can you take us behind the scenes of working with Mohamed Mamdouh, Hana Shiha, Ahmed Dash, and the rest of the cast and crew?
Working with this cast was a wonderful experience. Each actor brought something unique to their character, and what mattered most to me was creating an environment where they could explore the emotions and awkwardness of the story naturally.
Mohamed Mamdouh has a remarkable ability to communicate so much through small gestures and expressions, which was particularly important for a character who struggles to express himself verbally. Hana Shiha and Ahmed Dash also brought their own sensibilities to the film, helping us build believable characters.
I remember how Hana brought so many little details to her character, from the way she spoke to the occasional French words she slipped into her conversations. Those small choices added another layer to the character and made her feel more authentic.
I believe filmmaking is a collaborative process, and I&rsquo;m grateful to the entire cast and crew for their trust and commitment. Everyone contributed to creating the world of&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;and making its emotional contradictions feel real.
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You previously worked with Mohamed Mamdouh. How was this experience different from your previous collaboration?
Having worked with Mohamed Mamdouh before, I already had a great appreciation for his talent and his understanding of characters.
What I particularly appreciated about working with him on&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;was his ability to find humor in the character without turning him into a caricature. The father is awkward and often lost, but he is also vulnerable and sincere. Mohamed understood that balance beautifully.
For me, it was a valuable experience to move from working with an actor in a previous professional capacity to directing him and building a character together.
If you could make a film about one social issue, what would you choose to explore?
I would continue exploring the emotional distance between parents and their children, particularly the things we inherit from our families without even realizing it.
I&rsquo;m fascinated by how our upbringing shapes the way we communicate, express affection, and deal with vulnerability. I think there are so many stories to tell about the gap between the parents we want to be and the parents we actually become.
What do you hope audiences take away from&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;?
I hope audiences leave the film thinking about their own relationships with their parents or children. If&nbsp;&lsquo;32B&rsquo;&nbsp;makes people laugh, recognize a little of themselves in its characters, and perhaps feel encouraged to have a conversation they&rsquo;ve been putting off, then I&rsquo;ll be very happy.
For me, that&rsquo;s what makes telling these stories worthwhile.
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Photo Credit: Mohamed Taher's official page&nbsp;

Exclusive | Mohamed Taher On His Directorial Debut ‘32B: Mashakel Dakheliyya’

By: Yomna Walid&nbsp;
Aly Fathalla's musical journey began at the age of four, when his father gave him his first keyboard. Inspired by watching his father play, he soon developed a passion for music that would shape his career as a producer, DJ and live performer.
More than two decades later, Fathalla has established himself across international trance, Egyptian pop, and film and television scoring. Alongside his childhood friend Fady, he has also built Aly &amp; Fila into a long-running electronic music project.
But his musical journey has continued to evolve. His latest project, &lsquo;Alive&rsquo;, combines original electronic music with live instrumentation, allowing him to explore a more personal approach to performing. The idea emerged following the birth of his first daughter, an experience that also influenced his creative outlook.
In this exclusive interview with NileFM, this week's &lsquo;DJ of the Week&rsquo; discusses his early musical influences, his partnership with Fady, the evolution of Aly &amp; Fila and the impact of artificial intelligence and social media on music. He also talks about fatherhood, his ambitions for &lsquo;Alive&rsquo; and the 12-track live set he has prepared for the show, airing tonight at 10pm.
Take us back to the beginning. What inspired you to become a music producer and DJ, and how did your journey start?
My father had a love for music, and I used to watch him mesmerised as he played the keyboard. He worked as a doctor, yet music was always a big part of his life. He gave me my first keyboard when I was four, and I fell in love with music right then and there. As I grew older, my passion for music production and my curiosity about it also grew, eventually evolving into the music I play today. DJing is how I share my creations with the world, but my true passion is producing music and performing it live.
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After more than two decades in the music industry, what has remained at the heart of your identity as a musician?
I appreciate good music of all genres. Good music is simply good music. My identity is somewhat of a chameleon; it expands and changes with every new piece of music I produce. At its heart are my love of music and my curiosity to keep learning and creating something beautiful, whatever that may be. I always strive to produce good music, regardless of the genre.
You have been producing music since 2003. How do you think artificial intelligence will change music production and the creative process?
AI is definitely a double-edged sword; it depends on how artists choose to use it. If used creatively as a tool, it can have a very positive effect and be extremely helpful in the creative process. However, if it takes the lead in creating music, artists risk losing their identities and their sense of inspiration.
That's why I don't think AI can replace the human element. Music has a personality that makes every piece unique to the artist who created it.
You work across international trance and Egyptian pop. How do these two musical worlds influence each other in the studio?
It started the other way around. Initially, I brought part of my personality from the trance world into my Arabic pop productions, resulting in a distinctive sound that became recognisable in my music. Later, my love for our beautiful oriental sounds found its way into my dance tracks and helped elevate those productions as well. The two genres definitely influence each other in a very positive way, in my opinion.
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How do you continue to evolve creatively while maintaining the distinctive sound your fans recognise?
I am very grateful for the distinctive identity of my music, which I believe comes straight from the heart and reflects my personality. However, maintaining that identity is not something I consciously focus on.
I believe creative evolution comes from having the passion to keep learning, developing and exploring the new creative tools that emerge every day. At the same time, it is important to remain true to what I genuinely enjoy rather than blindly following trends.
I am humbled and ecstatic to have a sound that fans recognise. I have been blessed with that, and I am truly grateful.
How have social media and streaming platforms changed the way electronic music is produced, promoted and consumed?
Social media is a double-edged sword. It has helped artists reach wider audiences and appeal to the masses. However, it can also discourage talented artists from producing music simply because they haven't received enough likes or aren't particularly skilled at using social media.
Seeking validation online can be dangerous. You shouldn't let it make or break you.
In my case, my production process remains the same. I still strive to create music that I enjoy and believe in. However, social media has made me pay more attention to how I present my music and has made it easier to share what I have always done, even when no one was watching, with people who appreciate it.
It also encouraged me to take a videography course so I could shoot reels properly and motivated me to keep up with the times.
It is beneficial to watch and learn from other artists who share their work online, but it is important to maintain your own personality rather than blindly follow trends.
You and Fady have been making music together for more than two decades. What has kept your creative partnership going?
I believe it comes down to a long-standing childhood friendship, good communication and a shared creative vision, most of the time.
How has the Aly &amp; Fila sound evolved over the years, and what has defined its musical identity?
The Aly &amp; Fila sound has continuously evolved alongside the development of the tools available to us, including software and hardware, as well as our shared experiences and musical growth.
It has always reflected a shared personality between Fady and me, with our music carrying a distinctive flavour of collaboration and a common identity.
Our sound develops with every life event we share or experience separately, and with everything each of us learns. I believe this is what has created the uplifting and emotional nature of Aly &amp; Fila's music. When we first started, it was an emotionally meaningful project that uplifted both of us.
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You have launched &lsquo;Alive&rsquo;, a live concept featuring your original solo material and hardware instruments. What inspired you to explore this new creative direction?
Performance has always been something I truly enjoyed. In fact, it was part of how I first got into music. The equipment I used back then was much less sophisticated than what I have now, but I had been performing live since high school. Then life and the lack of technology had other plans.
After many years in the music business, spending most of my time in the studio or in front of a computer, I was inspired to make electronic dance music more personal, both for myself and for audiences.
Through a lot of trial and error, I eventually settled on the instruments I use today. They allow me to create and perform electronic music live, much like playing a conventional musical instrument. This makes the performance feel more human than simply playing a track through a computer.
I get to perform live and interact with the music I have produced, remixed or composed. It is a truly wonderful and exhilarating experience.
What does &lsquo;Alive&rsquo; allow you to explore musically that you might not be able to under the Aly &amp; Fila name?
It's not that this is music that couldn't be released under the Aly &amp; Fila name; it is simply a different direction in electronic dance music.
&lsquo;Alive&rsquo; has a different tempo and is aimed at a broader audience with a wider range of musical preferences. It is music that can be enjoyed by different age groups and is not limited to a particular genre.
There are no restrictions on genre or tempo with &lsquo;Alive&rsquo;. It is about whatever music comes from my soul or touches my heart. There are absolutely no limitations on what I can create or perform. I have even performed with an orchestra.
The project caters to a variety of audiences. It is a brand-new interpretation of electronic dance music.
How has fatherhood influenced you as an artist, and how do you balance family life with the demands of an international music career?
The idea for &lsquo;Alive&rsquo; actually came about with the birth of my first daughter.
I am a very hands-on father and am present in my daughters' lives in every way. Becoming a father has been an enriching emotional experience that has had a positive influence on my creativity. It has added more depth and emotion to everything I create.
As for the demands of an international music career, that side of things is only just beginning to develop, but so far, so good.
I stopped touring with Fady for a while following my ear injury in 2009. This allowed me to spend more time with my family, as most of my work was focused on production.
Since starting &lsquo;Alive&rsquo; and travelling again, my family has continued to come first. Sometimes they travel with me, and my partner makes sure the children are involved and know about the events I take part in.
I am blessed to have this time with my family, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
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Alongside your work in electronic music, you also compose for film and television. How does writing music for a story differ from producing your own tracks?
For me, music always tells a story, and I truly enjoy creating it in all its forms, whether acoustic or electronic. Writing music for a story means working within the boundaries of the narrative and the vision of its creators. However, I still enjoy the challenge of creating something beautiful that enhances the storyline and adds to it.
That's the difference. When I create my own tracks, I am limited only by my own vision, which is often limitless.
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What can visual storytelling bring out in you as a composer that you might not otherwise explore in your own productions?
Perhaps it is the challenge of communicating a story through music without lyrics and finding the best possible way for the music and the visuals to work together in a synchronised expression.
Having performed around the world, which experiences have had the greatest impact on you, both personally and professionally?
Watching how universal the language of music is has been particularly memorable. Interacting with audiences from all over the world and understanding one another through music is magical.
I love visiting places I wouldn't normally visit. I have performed in South Korea, for example.
On a personal level, it is wonderful to feel loved and valued for what you create. Having people appreciate you because of your music is a fulfilling experience.
Professionally, performing for different audiences and experiencing different cultures have been enriching. For example, performing in Saudi Arabia for two very different audiences at separate events was a lot of fun. Understanding how each crowd interacts with the music was a valuable learning experience.
Looking back at your career so far, what is the one ambition you have yet to fulfil?
Professionally, my ambition is definitely to take &lsquo;Alive&rsquo; to a much wider audience.
I also want to create a platform where I can teach music production and share my knowledge.
What can your fans look forward to next? Are there any new projects or musical directions you can tell us about?
There is always something new in the works, but I don't have anything specific to share at the moment. Hopefully, there will be more live shows and performances around the world.
Finally, what special surprise have you prepared for &lsquo;DJ of the Week&rsquo; on NileFM?
A live set of 12 original tracks performed live, which I hope you will enjoy.
Photo Credit: Aly Fathalla&rsquo;s official page

Exclusive | Aly Fathalla On His Musical Journey, Aly & Fila And The Story Behind ‘Alive’

By: Yomna Walid&nbsp;
With a simple idea carrying a deeper meaning, Egyptian director Soliman Hamza&rsquo;s &ldquo;Beat the Saddle&rdquo; has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning both Best Director and Best Picture at the Iowa African Film Festival 2026.
The film explores how even the simplest dreams can become difficult to achieve. It follows a rural man who simply wants to buy a donkey to make his journey to work easier, only to find that achieving this seemingly modest dream is far more difficult than expected. Through a blend of black comedy and realism, &ldquo;Beat the Saddle&rdquo; examines the struggles people face while trying to improve their lives and pursue their dreams.
The Iowa African Film Festival 2026 featured 30 selected films representing 22 countries, chosen from more than 500 submissions from around the world. &ldquo;Beat the Saddle&rdquo; was the only Egyptian winning entry at the festival, taking home two awards: Best Picture and Best Director.&nbsp;
NileFM went behind the scenes with Egyptian director Soliman Hamza to discuss the making of &ldquo;Beat the Saddle,&rdquo; the inspiration behind its central character and his simple dream, the challenges of bringing the story to life through realism and black comedy, and what winning at the Iowa African Film Festival 2026 means to him.
Take us behind your journey. What made you decide you wanted to become a director?
My journey with cinema began with my love for storytelling and expressing the human experience through images. I first studied theatre, then moved into cinema and specialized in directing. For me, directing is a way of seeing people and life from a different perspective and sharing that vision with the audience.
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The film follows a rural man who simply wants to buy a donkey to make his journey to work easier. What made you choose such a simple desire as the starting point for the story?
I chose such a simple desire because I believe that simple things can carry deeply human stories. For Reda, buying a donkey is not just a small wish; it represents a real need and the hope of making his life easier. Through this simple dream, I wanted to explore how difficult life can make even the smallest wishes.
Your filmmaking style relies on realism. What made you choose this approach for the film?
I chose realism because I wanted the film to feel close to real life. I was interested in real locations, everyday details, and characters that feel natural and honest. I felt realism was the best way to bring the audience closer to Reda&rsquo;s world.
The film explores how a seemingly simple dream can become difficult to achieve because of life's circumstances. What does this idea mean to you personally?
This idea is very meaningful to me because people often do not ask for much from life, yet circumstances can make even simple dreams difficult to achieve. The film is about the distance between dreams and reality, and about continuing to try despite the obstacles.
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The donkey becomes a symbol of something that seems simple but can be difficult to reach. What did you want the donkey to represent in the story?
The donkey represents the dream itself. It is something simple, but for Reda, it represents change and a better life. I wanted it to become a symbol of the simple dreams that can sometimes be surprisingly difficult to reach.
What was the biggest challenge you faced while shooting the film?
The biggest challenge was maintaining the film&rsquo;s realism while still giving it a cinematic quality. Shooting in real locations and dealing with unpredictable circumstances was challenging, but it also helped shape the film&rsquo;s authenticity.
&ldquo;Beat the Saddle&rdquo; won Best Director and Best Picture at the Iowa African Film Festival 2026. What did these awards mean to you?
Winning Best Director and Best Picture at the Iowa African Film Festival was a very meaningful moment for me. It showed me that a simple story from an Egyptian reality could connect with an international audience. The awards are also a recognition of everyone who worked on the film.
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The film is titled &ldquo;Beat the Saddle.&rdquo; What does the title mean to you, and how does it connect to the story and its central themes?
&ldquo;Beat the Saddle&rdquo; is connected to the ideas of journey, struggle, and perseverance. The saddle is directly connected to the donkey and Reda&rsquo;s journey, but it also represents his attempt to move forward despite his circumstances.
The film combines social realism, satire, and dark comedy. How did you find the balance between these different tones?
I wanted the satire and dark comedy to come naturally from the reality of the story. I believe laughter and sadness can exist in the same moment, and I tried to capture that contrast through the characters and situations.
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What was the most rewarding part of bringing this story to life?
The most rewarding part was seeing a simple idea become a story that people could connect with. When Reda&rsquo;s dream reaches someone from a different culture, I feel that the film has found its human meaning.
What is next for you? Are there any stories or projects you would like to explore next?
In my upcoming projects, I want to continue exploring human stories and everyday life while experimenting with different cinematic styles and forms of storytelling. What matters most to me is telling honest stories with meaning.
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Photo Credit: Soliman Hamza&rsquo;s official page
&nbsp;

Exclusive | Soliman Hamza Talks “Beat The Saddle” Winning At Iowa African Film Festival 2026

By: Yomna Walid&nbsp;
Winning Olympic gold was just the beginning for Feryal Ashraf. After making history at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Egypt's first female Olympic karate gold medallist faced a new challenge: returning to elite competition after becoming a mother. At the 2026 Mediterranean Games, she proved she was ready, overcoming an injury to claim gold and secure her second consecutive title at the Games.
The Egyptian karate champion and pharmacist has had to balance the demands of motherhood, her profession and the rigours of competitive sport, while continuing to pursue her ambitions.
In an exclusive interview with NileFM, Ashraf reflects on her comeback, the challenges of motherhood and the determination that has shaped her career. She also reveals what she hopes to achieve next, including a long-awaited individual senior World Championship title.
You have achieved success in both pharmacy and karate. Take us behind your journey. How did you manage to balance your studies, your career as a pharmacist, and your training as a professional athlete?
It was all about time management and setting priorities. If I have a very important competition coming up, my priority is training. If I have an exam and there is no training, then studying becomes the priority. If the two conflict, I try to organize my time between both so I can give each one the attention it needs.
Your journey has included many challenges and difficult moments. What would you say has been the biggest challenge you have faced, and what did it teach you?
One of the biggest challenges was before the Olympics, when I had a disagreement with my coach, which led to him stopping our training together. He decided to leave me about a month and a half before the Olympics. That made me hold on to my dream even more rather than give up on it.
I had a goal in front of me that I wanted to achieve, despite the circumstances I was going through. That gave me even more motivation to achieve it. I eventually found another coach, my current coach, Captain Khaled, who took on a responsibility during a period that not everyone would have been able to accept, especially with such little time left before the Olympics.
On top of that, I was dealing with injuries. Before the Olympics, I had a hamstring tear, and I recovered from it just one week before the Olympics. I always believe that you can keep going as long as you are willing to fight for the place you want to reach.
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Your journey at the 2026 Mediterranean Games was not an easy one, but you managed to overcome the challenges and win the gold medal. Can you take us behind that experience?
It was my first major official competition after returning from motherhood, so it was a very important milestone for me, especially because I managed to win the gold medal.
I had already won gold in Oran in 2022, so winning gold again meant that I had won gold medals at two consecutive editions. That was something very significant for me.
The biggest challenge during the competition was my injury in the first match. The doctors advised me not to continue, but I wanted to keep going and reach my goal. I could see myself winning the gold medal, and I believed I could perform well throughout the competition.
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You suffered an injury during the competition but decided to continue fighting. What gave you the strength to keep going?
The amount of exhaustion and pain I had gone through before the competition, along with everything I had experienced, were things that could have made anyone give up. I had also gone through very difficult psychological circumstances, and I had pushed myself extremely hard.
That made me decide that I was not going to give up on everything I had worked for just because I got injured. On the contrary, it made me hold on even more.
An injury can also make an athlete more focused. When I got injured, I became even more focused. I was thinking, &ldquo;No one is going to touch my face or get close to the injured area.&rdquo; I became more focused on my goal. I was not going to look anywhere else except at the goal I had come for.
I was simply taking it one step at a time, getting closer to the gold medal.
You recently became one of the ambassadors of the UN&rsquo;s &ldquo;Shabab Balad&rdquo; initiative in Egypt alongside world squash champion Ali Farag. What message do you hope to highlight through this role, particularly for young people who have big ambitions but may not know how to turn their dreams into reality?
As an ambassador for "Shabab Balad" under the United Nations, I am trying to raise awareness among young people about how they can make use of their abilities, employment opportunities, and job opportunities, while strengthening and developing their skills and helping them enter the job market.
There was also the launch of an academy that focuses on developing these skills.
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You are now looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics. How do you want this Olympic journey to be different from your previous experience?
Unfortunately, I will be going to support and follow my teammates because karate is no longer part of the Olympic programme. It was included once in Tokyo and did not return afterward, so it is not part of the programme now.
My role will be to support my teammates across all the sports and cheer them on.
As a karate champion, pharmacist, and mother, you have many responsibilities. How do you manage to balance all these roles while continuing to pursue your ambitions?
Of course, being a mother, pharmacist, and athlete is difficult, but it is about managing your time and responsibilities, knowing when to do each thing, and organizing your time properly.
The unsung hero in my story is my mother. She helps me with everything. She helps me raise my son and takes many responsibilities off my shoulders, which allows me to focus more on my training and my life.
At the same time, she helps me be present in my son's life. During competitions, when I am not there, my mother takes on that responsibility.
It really is difficult, but it is worth it.
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What has motherhood taught you, both inside and outside the competition arena?
Being a mother taught me not to give up, especially after I returned to competition. Before that, there were many challenges, both psychologically and physically.
Getting through all of that, trying to return again, and competing for championships was definitely a challenge for me. I was able to make that comeback, and I am proud that I managed to do it.
You have become an inspiration to many women in Egypt and around the world. What advice would you give to every woman who has a dream but is facing challenges or doubts along the way?
There is nothing in this world without challenges. There have to be challenges in order for you to reach what you want, because once you achieve your goal, you can truly enjoy it. You can look back at everything you went through and realize that you reached your goal.
The advice I can give is not only for women, but for everyone: do your part regardless of the outcome. The result is ultimately in God's hands, but you should do everything you can and give your best to reach what you want.
At the end of the day, knowing that you did everything you could is something that allows you to be satisfied with the result, with your life, and with what you have done.
<a href="https://ibb.co/QvWC6rc8"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/RTXBCzSh/5.png" alt="5" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
If you could go back to the beginning of your career and speak to the younger Feryal, what would you tell her?
I would encourage myself even more and tell myself to continue on the path I chose, and that there is nothing that can make me turn away from it.
After everything you have achieved so far, what is the one thing Feryal Ashraf still dreams of achieving?
Right now, it is not a dream for me. It is for my son. I want to see him become the best version of himself and achieve everything he dreams of.
As for Feryal herself, I want to win an individual senior World Championship title.
Photo Credit: Feryal Ashraf&rsquo;s official page

Exclusive | Feryal Ashraf On Defying The Odds, Motherhood And Her Return To Gold

By: Yomna Walid&nbsp;
With each story told over three episodes, "El Qessa El Kamla" goes beyond the headlines to explore the human stories behind real-life criminal cases.
In an exclusive interview with NileFM, Egyptian producer and director Magdy El Hawary discusses the creative vision behind the series, his collaboration with storyteller Sameh Sanad and the process of selecting real-life cases for television. He also explains the importance of respecting the facts when adapting real events for drama and why he believes crime stories should be explored through their human dimensions.
El Hawary also talks about Kinda Alloush&rsquo;s upcoming role in "El Mataha," hints at potential collaborations with Ahmed Mekky and Mostafa Gharieb, and shares details of his upcoming projects.
Rather than focusing solely on the crimes, "El Qessa El Kamla" explores the circumstances, decisions and events that lead to each case, offering a closer look at the people behind the headlines.
What was the creative vision behind selecting the cases featured in "El Qessa El Kamla," particularly those that sparked controversy and attracted public attention?
From the beginning, our goal was not to select the most notorious or violent crimes. The crime itself does not make a drama. We were looking for the human story behind the headlines: an apparently ordinary household, a relationship that gradually deteriorates, or small decisions that accumulate until they lead to a point of no return.
Our main criterion was that each case should raise questions beyond simply asking who committed the crime. We wanted to explore how the story began, why it reached such an ending and whether anything could have been done to prevent it.
That is why we tell each story over just three episodes, using a realistic and distinctive narrative structure. Rather than beginning with the investigation and then returning to the past, we follow the characters from the beginning, exploring the circumstances and decisions that ultimately lead to the consequences we see.
We do not simply recreate crime scenes. We try to discover the human being behind each case.
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Was there a particular case you wanted to include in "El Qessa El Kamla" but were unable to?
Certainly. There are many cases I would have liked to explore, some of which have considerable dramatic and human potential. However, not every real-life case is suitable for adaptation.
Sometimes the available information is incomplete, the necessary rights are unavailable, or there are legal and humanitarian considerations involving people who are still alive.
In other cases, the crime itself may be compelling, but there may not be enough character development or a sufficiently substantial human journey to sustain three episodes without inventing details or omitting important facts.
I believe respecting the truth is more important than our desire to tell an interesting story. If we cannot find a responsible way to adapt a case without doing anyone an injustice or presenting unverified claims as facts, it is better to postpone it until the circumstances are right or not present it at all.
<a href="https://ibb.co/7x1GKwRS"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/wZzK49wd/2.png" alt="2" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Kinda Alloush has recently been announced as part of the cast of "El Mataha." Can you reveal any further details about the cast or other names joining the production?
Kinda Alloush&rsquo;s involvement in "El Mataha" is a significant addition. She is an actress with great sensitivity and intelligence, capable of portraying complex characters without exaggeration.
The story requires an actress who can make the audience believe in and sympathise with her character, while keeping them uncertain about what is happening beneath the surface.
There are indeed some surprises, and we are currently in negotiations with several prominent names. However, I prefer not to announce anyone until the agreements are finalised.
I can say that "El Mataha" will have a distinctive psychological and visual identity, with an unexpected combination of actors. We are not bringing people together simply to create an impressive cast list. Every actor is chosen because they are right for the character and can contribute to the story, rather than simply attracting publicity.
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What would you like audiences to take away from "El Qessa El Kamla"?
I do not want audiences to leave with a direct message that sounds like a moral lesson at the end of a school essay. I want them to reflect and ask questions, because the questions that remain after an episode ends are often more important than ready-made answers.
"El Qessa El Kamla" does not suggest that evil emerges suddenly. Instead, it explores how it can develop through seemingly insignificant details in our relationships and everyday lives: violence we choose to ignore, greed we justify, love we mistake for ownership, or injustice we tolerate because it is committed by someone we care about.
I hope viewers come to understand that a crime is not simply the final act in a story. Sometimes, it has a long history of silence, fear and poor decisions behind it.
Audiences may begin watching as though they are investigating a crime, but I hope they leave asking themselves a different question: when did the crime really begin, and could anyone have prevented it?
<a href="https://ibb.co/q326pXc6"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/pBkqdGMq/4.png" alt="4" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
You recently shared a photograph with Ahmed Mekky and Mostafa Gharieb. Could we see the three of you working together on a project soon?
Ahmed Mekky and Mostafa Gharieb are both friends and artists I greatly admire and appreciate. The photograph captured a lovely moment between us, but it was not an official announcement of a project.
Of course, I hope we can work together soon. Each of them has a distinctive artistic identity and a unique presence.
However, I have learnt not to announce a project until its concept and details are fully developed and it is genuinely ready to go into production.
Conversations between artists are ongoing, and sometimes photographs may hint at ideas behind the scenes. But an idea remains just an idea until it becomes a script, a contract and, eventually, a production.
Following "El Qessa El Kamla," what kinds of stories or formats would you like to explore in your future work?
"El Qessa El Kamla" has brought me back to the area I love: creating formats, rather than simply producing television series.
I am interested in projects built around a strong idea, a distinct identity and a structure that can evolve and develop, rather than stories that end when they are shown.
I would like to explore the stories of ordinary people, the ones we encounter every day but rarely pay attention to, even though they can be more compelling and influential than fictional stories.
I am also interested in psychological and social drama, particularly stories that incorporate an element of mystery and explore the intersection between drama, reality, digital content and audience interaction.
I want to continue looking for new forms of storytelling. In my view, a producer is not simply a financier or someone who manages a budget. A real producer creates projects, builds their identity and establishes their value. The job is to recognise the potential of an idea before the market does.
<a href="https://ibb.co/GfTL8w1r"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/NgSPJhkG/5.png" alt="5" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
What projects are you currently developing, and what can audiences expect from you in the coming period?
We are continuing to develop new stories within the "El Qessa El Kamla" universe, including "El Mataha," alongside several other cases that are still at the research, writing and selection stages.
My aim is for every title in the series to have its own setting, characters and dramatic approach, while retaining the core identity of the format.
We are also developing new drama projects and formats, but I would prefer to discuss them once all the elements are in place.
For me, the next stage is not about increasing the number of productions. It is about creating projects with a lasting identity and something meaningful to offer both audiences and the industry.
Photo Credit: Magdy El Hawary&rsquo;s official page
&nbsp;

Exclusive | Magdy El Hawary: '"El Qessa El Kamla" Brought Me Back To The Area I Love'

Nile FM Exclusive  

American actress Julia Stiles paid tribute to her late co-star Heath Ledger in an emotional performance on Dancing with the Stars, reuniting with members of the original &lsquo;10 Things I Hate About You&rsquo; cast to celebrate the beloved actor&rsquo;s legacy.
During the show&rsquo;s Dedication Night, Stiles and her professional dance partner, Ezra Sosa, performed a heartfelt contemporary routine to Frankie Valli&rsquo;s &ldquo;Can&rsquo;t Take My Eyes Off You,&rdquo; the song famously featured in the 1999 romantic comedy.
As the performance came to an end, Stiles placed a rose beside a photograph of herself and Ledger, while the poem she recited in the film played in the background. Moments later, her former co-stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Gabrielle Union, Larisa Oleynik, Susan May Pratt, and Andrew Keegan joined her on the dance floor, turning the tribute into an emotional reunion.
Why Julia Stiles Chose &lsquo;10 Things I Hate About You&rsquo; for Her Tribute
Reflecting on her experience working with Ledger, Stiles expressed how much the film and her late co-star meant to her.
&ldquo;Making &lsquo;10 Things I Hate About You&rsquo; with him was such a special moment in time,&rdquo; she said in a clip shared ahead of the performance. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s amazing that people still care about that movie, and it&rsquo;s just sad that we can&rsquo;t celebrate it with him.&rdquo;
The reunion also highlighted the lasting friendship between the former cast members. Ahead of the episode, the actors shared a video showing their support for Stiles as she prepared for the emotional performance.
Stiles also recalled the impact Ledger had on her during filming, describing the experience as one filled with cherished memories. The tribute offered a reminder of how their on-screen chemistry and the film&rsquo;s memorable moments continue to resonate with audiences decades later.
What Is &lsquo;10 Things I Hate About You&rsquo; About?
Released in 1999, &lsquo;10 Things I Hate About You&rsquo; is a teen romantic comedy loosely inspired by William Shakespeare&rsquo;s &lsquo;The Taming of the Shrew.&rsquo; Directed by Gil Junger, the film follows sisters Kat Stratford, played by Stiles, and Bianca Stratford, portrayed by Oleynik.
Bianca wants to start dating, but their strict father will not allow her to do so until her older sister, Kat, also has a boyfriend. The situation takes an unexpected turn when Patrick Verona, played by Ledger, is persuaded to pursue Kat, setting the stage for the film&rsquo;s romance and comedy.
The film also featured Gordon-Levitt as Cameron James, Union as Chastity Church, Keegan as Joey Donner, and Pratt as Mandella.
Remembering Heath Ledger&rsquo;s Legacy
Ledger died in January 2008 at the age of 28. Later that year, he posthumously won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance as the Joker in Christopher Nolan&rsquo;s &lsquo;The Dark Knight.&rsquo;
Although Ledger&rsquo;s career included acclaimed performances in several films, his role as Patrick Verona in &lsquo;10 Things I Hate About You&rsquo; remains a fan favorite.
Stiles&rsquo; tribute brought the cast back together to remember their late co-star, celebrating not only the film&rsquo;s enduring popularity but also the memories and connections they shared with Ledger.
More than a nostalgic reunion, the moment served as a heartfelt reminder that a film&rsquo;s impact can extend far beyond the screen, keeping the memory of the people behind it alive for generations.
Photo Credit: Julia Stiles&rsquo; official page

Julia Stiles Reunites With ‘10 Things I Hate About You’ Cast For Heath Ledger Tribute

Egypt&rsquo;s 34th Arab Music Festival and Conference has opened in Cairo, with this year&rsquo;s edition dedicated to the late Egyptian singer Hany Shaker in recognition of his enduring contribution to Arabic music.
According to a statement published on the Egyptian Ministry of Culture&rsquo;s official page, the festival was inaugurated by Abdelaziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and acting Minister of Culture. Organised by the Cairo Opera House, headed by Reda El Wakil, the opening ceremony took place at its Main Hall.
Running from 20 to 30 October 2026, the 11-day festival features 24 concerts involving 91 artists across venues in Cairo and Alexandria. The programme also includes cultural events and an accompanying scientific conference dedicated to Arabic music.
Abdelaziz Konsowa Announces Hany Shaker Statue At Cairo Opera House
During his opening address, Konsowa highlighted the importance of Arabic music to the cultural identity of Egyptians and Arabs, describing authentic art as a vital part of their heritage and a bridge connecting generations and peoples.
He stressed that preserving artistic traditions allows nations to renew their identities and maintain their cultural presence. He also highlighted the festival&rsquo;s role in safeguarding Arabic musical heritage, supporting artists and encouraging debate about the future of Arabic music amid global changes.
Konsowa paid tribute to the late Ratiba El-Hefny, founder of the festival, praising her contribution to Egyptian and Arab musical life and her commitment to preserving Arabic musical traditions.
This year&rsquo;s edition is dedicated to Hany Shaker, widely known as the &ldquo;Prince of Arabic Singing&rdquo;, in recognition of a career spanning more than five decades and his lasting contribution to Arabic music.
As part of the tribute, Konsowa announced plans to erect a statue of Shaker in the Cairo Opera House courtyard, honouring his artistic legacy and preserving his memory for future generations.
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Hany Shaker&rsquo;s Wife Thanks President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi
During the ceremony, Nahla Tawfik, Shaker&rsquo;s wife, expressed her gratitude to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for the presidential message of condolence issued following the singer&rsquo;s death.
She described the message as a source of support for Egyptian artists and thanked Konsowa and the Cairo Opera House administration for dedicating this year&rsquo;s festival to her late husband and honouring his artistic legacy.
Festival Honours Egyptian And Arab Musical Figures
The opening ceremony also recognised several prominent figures for their contributions to music and musical scholarship across Egypt and the Arab world.
The honourees included Dr Esam Aljawder from Bahrain; the late accordionist and composer Mokhtar El-Sayed; violinist Dr Samir Rashad; ney player Mohamed Fouda; the late composer and music arranger Mohamed Helal; music critic Dr Enas Galal El-Din; the late poet Reda Amin; singer Walid Haidar; and artist Tarek Fouad.
The opening programme included documentary films celebrating influential figures in Egyptian music and Shaker&rsquo;s career, alongside performances of some of his best-known songs.
Singer Nevin Ragab also performed a new song, &ldquo;Feih Nas Teghib&rdquo;, dedicated to Shaker. The concert featured performances by several Egyptian singers, including Mohamed Shahin, Anoushka and Nadia Mostafa.
The festival continues until 30 October, with concerts at the Cairo Opera House&rsquo;s Main Hall, Small Hall and Arab Music Institute, as well as the Sayed Darwish Theatre at the Alexandria Opera House.
The accompanying scientific conference runs from 21 to 24 October, bringing together 35 researchers from 15 countries to discuss Arabic music and the relationship between academic criticism and media coverage.
Photo Credit: Egyptian Cabinet&rsquo;s official page

Egypt’s 34th Arab Music Festival Opens With Tribute To Hany Shaker

English singer-songwriter and actor Harry Styles paid a heartfelt tribute to his late One Direction bandmate Liam Payne, performing an unreleased song dedicated to him during his Madison Square Garden residency in New York, marking the second anniversary of Payne&rsquo;s death. The Grammy-winning singer introduced the previously unheard track, titled &ldquo;What Is Enough,&rdquo; during the encore of his concert, revealing that he had written the song for his friend around two years earlier. Harry Styles Opens Up About Losing Liam Payne Before performing the song, Styles addressed the audience, reflecting on the people who had shaped his life and career. He told concertgoers that he felt fortunate to perform at Madison Square Garden and expressed gratitude to the friends and collaborators who had supported him along the way. &ldquo;Two years ago today, I lost one of those friends,&rdquo; Styles said, referring to Payne. He then asked the audience for permission to perform a song he had written for his late friend, prompting cheers from the crowd. Styles accompanied himself on guitar as he performed &ldquo;What Is Enough,&rdquo; an emotional ballad reflecting on loss, friendship, and the lasting impact people leave behind.
<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ozFHc8-w2v4" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Harry Styles and Liam Payne&rsquo;s Journey With One Direction Styles and Payne first met in 2010 when they auditioned for the British talent competition &ldquo;The X Factor.&rdquo; Although they initially auditioned as solo contestants, they were brought together with Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan to form One Direction. The group went on to become one of the most successful boy bands of its generation, releasing hits that built a global fan base. In 2015, Malik announced his departure from the group, while the remaining members began pursuing individual projects before One Direction went on an indefinite hiatus in 2016. Remembering Liam Payne Payne died on 16 October 2024, at the age of 31, after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. His death prompted tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and his former bandmates. His funeral took place in Amersham, England, on 20 November 2024. Styles, Malik, Tomlinson, and Horan attended the service, marking a rare reunion of the former bandmates as they came together to mourn their friend. Two years later, Styles&rsquo; performance of &ldquo;What Is Enough&rdquo; offered another tribute to Payne, remembering not only their shared years in One Direction but also the friendship that continued to hold meaning beyond the band. Photo Credit: One Direction&rsquo;s official page
&nbsp;

Harry Styles Honors Liam Payne With Unreleased Song On Second Anniversary Of His Death

From AI-generated videos featuring Egyptian celebrities to freestyle performances recreating the original moment, the &lsquo;Bulin 47&rsquo; trend has spread across social media. But how did it start, and why are so many people joining in? Here is what you need to know about the viral craze.
How Did The &lsquo;Bulin 47&rsquo; Trend Start?
The trend began with an unexpected encounter outside a restaurant, where Dominican street artist Bulin 47 met content creator and freestyler Kevin Wai.
Kevin approached Bulin with a speaker playing a dembow beat and began freestyling. As Bulin was about to enter the restaurant, he stopped to respond with his own rhymes, adding a distinctive dance move that became one of the clip&rsquo;s most recognisable features.
The spontaneous exchange quickly spread across TikTok and Instagram, attracting millions of views and inspiring users to recreate the moment.
Figures reported for the clip&rsquo;s reach have varied. Some early reports put its combined views across platforms at more than 50 million, while other media outlets reported that the original Instagram post had surpassed 94 million views.
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Egyptian Celebrities Join The &lsquo;Bulin 47&rsquo; Trend
The craze soon reached Egyptian social media, with celebrities putting their own spin on the viral clip. Some used artificial intelligence (AI) to replace Bulin 47&rsquo;s face with their own or with characters they had previously played on screen.
Actor Ahmed Helmy joined the trend with an AI-generated version featuring Maged, his character in the 2009 comedy film &lsquo;X-Large&rsquo;.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2250931622430497%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=267&amp;t=0" width="267" height="476" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
Mohamed Saad also took part, using his iconic character Tetaḥ in an AI-generated recreation of the clip.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1423346146426006%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=267&amp;t=0" width="267" height="476" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
Other Egyptian celebrities, including Mostafa Khater and Ramez Galal, joined in, adding to the trend&rsquo;s popularity on local social media.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1623080492882508%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=267&amp;t=0" width="267" height="476" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
Mostafa Gharieb Takes A Different Approach
While several celebrities opted for AI-generated videos, actor Mostafa Gharieb took a different approach, recreating the trend through freestyle rather than relying on artificial intelligence.
Gharib used the viral format to promote his upcoming theatrical production, &lsquo;Layla Asal&rsquo;, demonstrating how a social media trend can also provide an opportunity to promote a creative project.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1474087024573720%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=380&amp;t=0" width="380" height="476" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Screenshot from a Reel shared by Kevin Wai

What Is The ‘Bulin 47’ Trend? Egyptian Celebrities Join Viral Craze

Egypt’s #1 destination for ALL THINGS MUSIC. Nile FM brings you News, Music Reviews, Music Videos, Celebrity Gossip, Live Music sessions and Egyptian Musicians.

Beats

Egyptian DJ and electronic music producer Mohasseb will join Nancy on Nile FM&rsquo;s &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s Dance&rdquo; on Monday, 26 October 2026, from 7pm to 8pm.
Mohasseb began his music career in the early 2000s as a bedroom DJ before establishing himself in Cairo&rsquo;s electronic music scene. Since 2009, he has built a presence locally and internationally, performing at venues and festivals across Egypt and beyond.
He became a regular headliner at Cairo Jazz Club, where his &lsquo;Mohasseb &amp; Friends&rsquo; night developed into one of the venue&rsquo;s long-running events. The event celebrated its 14th anniversary in April 2026. He has also performed at venues including Pacha Sharm El Sheikh, Space Sharm, Aurora El Gouna, Megumi Gouna and Sachi in Cairo and on the North Coast.
His festival appearances include Family and Friends and Theatre of Dreams, alongside events associated with Plus, Ulter, Lemon Tree and Rituals.
Known for his take on melodic techno, Mohasseb began his international journey in 2015 with a debut performance in Greece. He has since shared the stage with international and regional electronic music artists, including Adriatique, Boris Brejcha, Innellea, MRAK, ARTBAT, Sama&rsquo; Abdulhadi, Monolink, Adam Port, Claptone and Maceo Plex.
Tune in to Nile FM&rsquo;s &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s Dance&rdquo; with Nancy on Monday, 26 October 2026, from 7pm to 8pm. for an hour of electronic music and a closer look at Mohasseb&rsquo;s career and musical influences.

Egyptian DJ And Producer Mohasseb To Join Nile FM’s “Let’s Dance” With Nancy

Nile FM's Guests

Egypt is set to experience warm to hot weather during the day across the northern parts of the country, extending to Greater Cairo, while temperatures are expected to be hot in southern Egypt. Conditions will turn cool to cold at night on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, according to the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA).
There is a 30% chance of light to moderate rain in parts of the North Coast governorates, northern Lower Egypt, the Gulf of Aqaba, central Sinai, and parts of the southern Red Sea Governorate. Rain may become heavy and thundery at times, particularly in Halayeb, Shalateen, and Ras Banas, where the chance of such conditions reaches 20%.
There is also a 20% chance of light rain in parts of southern Lower Egypt and the Suez Canal cities, potentially extending intermittently to parts of Greater Cairo and northern Upper Egypt.
Winds are expected to reach speeds of 30 to 40 km/h at times, potentially stirring up sand and dust across parts of the northwestern coast, the Western Desert, and exposed areas of Greater Cairo, Lower Egypt, the Suez Canal cities, and northern Upper Egypt.
The EMA has also cautioned of possible thunderstorm-related hazards, with a 40% chance of lightning strikes in some areas. Strong winds may also occur due to downdrafts associated with thunderstorms.
<a href="https://ibb.co/3yP1X78V"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/1f4ZVLpB/Egypt-Weather-2026-10-28-T082554-941.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-10-28-T082554-941" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Freepik (Magnific)

Egypt Weather Forecast: Warm Days And Cold Nights On 28 October 2026

The US dollar is trading at EGP 56.22 for buying and EGP 56.32 for selling, according to the latest exchange rates published by the National Bank of Egypt (NBE) on Tuesday, 27 October 2026.
Among other major currencies, the British pound is trading at EGP 74.96 for buying and EGP 75.18 for selling, while the euro is trading at EGP 62.75 for buying and EGP 62.96 for selling. The Chinese yuan is trading at EGP 8.42 for buying and EGP 8.44 for selling.
The UAE dirham is trading at EGP 15.29 for buying and EGP 15.33 for selling.
Exchange rates are closely monitored by businesses, investors and consumers, as fluctuations in the Egyptian pound can affect import costs, investment decisions and the wider economy.
<a href="https://ibb.co/MyBsK2Hy"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/Y403JRS4/Exchange-Rates-2026-10-27-T083623-145.png" alt="Exchange-Rates-2026-10-27-T083623-145" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Freepik (Magnific)

Exchange Rates: US Dollar, Euro And British Pound Today On 27 October 2026

Egypt is expected to experience warm to hot weather during the day across the northern parts of the country, including Greater Cairo, while temperatures will remain hot in southern Egypt. Conditions are expected to turn cool to cold at night, with Cairo reaching a high of 30&deg;C on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, according to the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA).
The EMA forecasts a chance of light to moderate rainfall, occasionally accompanied by thunderstorms, over parts of Sinai, the Red Sea Governorate, and the Gulf of Aqaba.
Rainfall could become heavy at times, with an estimated 30% probability in some areas, potentially leading to flash floods in parts of Halayeb, Shalateen, Marsa Alam, the Gulf of Aqaba, central Sinai, and parts of the southern Eastern Desert.
Light rain is also expected in scattered areas of the North Coast governorates, northern Lower Egypt, and parts of southern Upper Egypt. Rainfall may become moderate and thundery at times, with an estimated 30% probability in some areas, particularly the Matrouh Desert.
Meanwhile, there is an approximately 20% chance of light rain over parts of southern Lower Egypt and the Suez Canal cities, potentially extending to parts of Greater Cairo at intervals.
Winds are expected to become active intermittently, reaching speeds of 30 to 40 km/h. These winds may stir up sand and dust along the northwestern coast, across the Western Desert, and in some exposed areas of Greater Cairo, the Nile Delta, and northern Upper Egypt.
The EMA has also cautioned of a potential 40% probability of thunderstorms in some areas, which could bring lightning strikes and strong downdraft winds associated with thunderstorm activity.
<a href="https://ibb.co/hRDvtJPg"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/JR5PMwfc/Egypt-Weather-2026-10-27-T082653-634.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-10-27-T082653-634" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Freepik (Magnific)

Egypt Weather Forecast: Cairo Reaches 30°C With Cold Nights On 27 October 2026

CEO WOMEN&trade; 2026, the fifth edition of the international economic platform, will take place on Thursday, 29 October 2026, at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, under the patronage of H.E. Prof. Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt.
The fifth edition marks five consecutive years of the conference, which was first launched in Cairo in October 2022. This year&rsquo;s edition is held under the theme &ldquo;Investing in Strategic Sectors &ndash; Building Bridges Between East &amp; West,&rdquo; bringing together senior government officials, policymakers, investors and business leaders, with participation from more than 15 countries.
The conference will explore the changing direction of global capital, emerging investment priorities and new opportunities for international cooperation. Discussions will focus on strengthening strategic partnerships and fostering greater connectivity between markets across the East and West.
Against the backdrop of rapidly evolving geopolitical and economic dynamics, regional developments and global market disruptions, the movement of capital and the resilience of supply chains have become increasingly important to long-term economic growth. The conference will therefore place strategic investment, emerging industries and cross-border partnerships at the heart of its discussions.
A Strategic Agenda Shaping the Future of Investment
The conference will open with a high-level discussion titled &ldquo;Where Is Capital Going Next?&rdquo;, bringing together leading voices to examine global investment trends, shifting capital priorities and the opportunities shaping the next phase of economic growth.
The fifth edition is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Ministry of Industry, the Financial Regulatory Authority, the National Council for Women, and the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Authority.
The agenda will address a broad range of strategic investment themes, including investment opportunities in Africa, private capital, strategic sectors, energy, mining, transport and logistics, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, the digital economy, East&ndash;West investment corridors, technology investment and the evolving movement of global capital.
Sessions will also examine how financial institutions, investment funds and public-private partnerships can play a greater role in directing capital toward high-growth sectors and unlocking new opportunities for investment and economic development.
The conference will feature the participation of prominent economic and investment organisations, including the Egyptian Private Equity Association, the Egyptian Junior Business Association (EJB), the German-Arab Chamber of Industry and Commerce, and the British Egyptian Business Association (BEBA), alongside leading companies and institutions active across the investment and economic sectors.
CEO WOMEN&trade; 2026 is organised and hosted by ON AIR Group for Investment and Project Management, with Al Ahly Capital Holding participating as an Investment Partner.
Media Partners
CNN Business Arabic &mdash; Official Arabic Business News Partner
Sky News Arabia &mdash; International Arabic News Partner
Nogoum FM / Nile FM &mdash; Official Radio Partner
CEO WOMEN&trade; 2026 will take place on 29 October 2026 at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, Cairo, Egypt.
About CEO WOMEN&trade;
CEO WOMEN&trade; is an international economic platform focused on leadership, investment and strategic partnerships. Founded in Cairo in 2021, it is owned and organised by ON AIR Group for Investment and Project Management. The platform brings together government decision-makers, private-sector leaders, investors and entrepreneurs to support investment opportunities and strengthen economic cooperation across Africa, Europe and Asia through conferences, initiatives and international partnerships.
Photo Credit: CEO Women's official page&nbsp;

CEO WOMEN™ 2026 Returns To Cairo For Its Fifth Edition Under The Patronage Of Egypt’s Prime Minister, Advancing Strategic Investment And Global Partnerships

The US dollar is trading at EGP 55.77 for buying and EGP 55.87 for selling, according to the latest exchange rates published by the National Bank of Egypt (NBE) on Monday, 26 October 2026.
Among other major currencies, the British pound is trading at EGP 74.49 for buying and EGP 74.79 for selling, while the euro is trading at EGP 62.47 for buying and EGP 62.71 for selling. The Chinese yuan is trading at EGP 8.36 for buying and EGP 8.37 for selling.
The UAE dirham is trading at EGP 15.16 for buying and EGP 15.21 for selling.
Exchange rates are closely monitored by businesses, investors and consumers, as fluctuations in the Egyptian pound can affect import costs, investment decisions and the wider economy.
<a href="https://ibb.co/1pVTvhx"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/YK9hRYG/Exchange-Rates-2026-10-26-T105146-510.png" alt="Exchange-Rates-2026-10-26-T105146-510" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Freepik (Magnific)

Exchange Rates: US Dollar Trades At EGP 55.77 Against The Egyptian Pound On 26 October 2026

Egypt is set to experience warm to hot weather during the day in the north of the country, extending to Greater Cairo, and hot conditions in southern Egypt, while temperatures are expected to drop to cool or cold levels at night on Monday, October 26, 2026, according to the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA).
There is a 40% chance of light to moderate rainfall, which may be accompanied by thunderstorms, across parts of Sinai, the Red Sea Governorate, Upper Egypt, the Gulfs of Suez and Aqaba, and cities along the Suez Canal. Rainfall may become heavy at times, potentially leading to flash floods in parts of central Sinai, including Halayeb, Shalateen, Ras Banas, Marsa Alam, and Quseir, as well as parts of the southern Eastern Desert.
Meanwhile, there is a 30% chance of light rain in scattered areas along the North Coast and across the Nile Delta, potentially extending to parts of Greater Cairo. Rainfall may become moderate at times in areas between Salloum and Marsa Matrouh.
Winds are expected to become active at times, reaching speeds of 30 to 40 km/h along parts of the northwestern coast. Dust and sandstorms are also possible intermittently in areas between Salloum and Marsa Matrouh.
The EMA has also warned of potential hazards associated with thunderstorms, including strong winds caused by downdrafts and lightning strikes in some areas.
<a href="https://ibb.co/jYvhsYP"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/QVF9tV3/Egypt-Weather-2026-10-26-T100302-301.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-10-26-T100302-301" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Flickr

Egypt Weather Forecast: Thunderstorms And Heavy Rain Expected In Several Areas On 26 October 2026

American actor and producer Tom Cruise has been named the 52nd recipient of the American Film Institute (AFI) Life Achievement Award, recognising his contribution to cinema over a career spanning more than four decades.
The award will be presented at a gala tribute at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on 24 April 2027, the AFI announced on 21 October 2026.
Kathleen Kennedy, chair of the AFI Board of Trustees, described Cruise as a global icon, praising his commitment to acting and producing and his belief in cinema&rsquo;s ability to bring people together. She also highlighted his role as an ambassador for American film around the world, according to Reuters.
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A Career Spanning More Than Four Decades
Cruise has received three Academy Award nominations for acting: Best Actor for &lsquo;Born on the Fourth of July&rsquo; (1989) and &lsquo;Jerry Maguire&rsquo; (1996), and Best Supporting Actor for &lsquo;Magnolia&rsquo; (1999). He also received a Best Picture nomination as a producer on &lsquo;Top Gun: Maverick&rsquo; (2022).
In 2025, he received an honorary Oscar at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences&rsquo; Governors Awards in recognition of his contribution to cinema.
His filmography includes &lsquo;Rain Man&rsquo;, &lsquo;A Few Good Men&rsquo;, &lsquo;Minority Report&rsquo; and the &lsquo;Mission: Impossible&rsquo; franchise, which have helped establish him as one of Hollywood&rsquo;s most recognisable leading actors.
Cruise stars in &lsquo;Digger&rsquo;, a dark comedy directed by Alejandro Gonz&aacute;lez I&ntilde;&aacute;rritu. The film follows a powerful man who attempts to prove he is humanity&rsquo;s saviour as a disaster he has unleashed threatens to destroy everything. The satirical role marks a departure from the action films with which Cruise is most closely associated.
Upcoming Projects
In August 2026, Cruise and Anne Hathaway announced a sequel to the 1990 racing film &lsquo;Days of Thunder&rsquo;. Paramount has scheduled the film&rsquo;s release for 2 June 2028. Cruise will reprise his role as racing driver Cole Trickle, while Hathaway will play a team owner and engineer. Jonathan Levine is directing the film.
A third &lsquo;Top Gun&rsquo; film is also in development, potentially bringing Cruise back to another of his best-known franchises.
About the AFI Life Achievement Award
Established in 1973, the AFI Life Achievement Award recognises an individual whose work has significantly advanced the art of film and stood the test of time. The American Film Institute is a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting the motion picture arts.
Previous recipients include Bette Davis, Gene Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Nicole Kidman and Eddie Murphy, who received the honour in 2026.
Cruise&rsquo;s selection places him among a group of actors, directors and filmmakers recognised for their contributions to cinema over several decades.
Photo Credit: Tom Cruise&rsquo;s official page
&nbsp;

Tom Cruise Named 52nd Recipient Of AFI Life Achievement Award

Around 7,000 foreign tourists visited the temples of Abu Simbel in southern Aswan to witness the twice-yearly solar alignment at the Great Temple of Ramses II, as Egypt concluded the Aswan Festival for Culture and Arts with traditional folk performances.
According to the Middle East News Agency (MENA), the event took place on Thursday, 22 October, drawing visitors to witness sunlight entering the temple&rsquo;s sanctuary and illuminating three of its four statues.
Aswan Governor Amr Lashin said the event was organised through coordination between the Aswan Security Directorate and the relevant authorities in the culture, tourism, antiquities, civil aviation, food supply and healthcare sectors.
Lashin said measures had been put in place to facilitate visitors&rsquo; entry and exit, ensuring the smooth movement of Egyptian and foreign tourists attending the event and its accompanying artistic performances.
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Folk Performances Celebrate Ancient Egyptian Heritage
According to Egypt&rsquo;s General Authority for Cultural Palaces, the festival concluded on the morning of 22 October with performances by folk art troupes in the courtyard of Abu Simbel Temple.
The solar alignment lasted approximately 20 minutes, coinciding with performances by groups from Port Said, Matrouh, New Valley, Sohag, Toshka and Sharqia. Tourists joined the celebrations, interacting with performers through dancing and singing.
The solar alignment is one of Egypt&rsquo;s most distinctive archaeological phenomena, demonstrating the precision of the ancient Egyptians&rsquo; astronomical knowledge and architectural design.
It occurs twice a year, on 22 October and 22 February, when sunlight travels through the Great Temple&rsquo;s entrance and corridors to reach the inner sanctuary. The rays illuminate the statues of Ramses II and the deities Amun-Ra and Ra-Horakhty, while the statue of Ptah remains in shadow.
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Aswan Festival Brings Cultural Performances Across the Governorate
The Aswan Festival for Culture and Arts began on 17 October with the operetta &lsquo;Army of the Sun&rsquo;, directed by Hisham Atwa. The production portrayed the October War and the achievements of the Egyptian Armed Forces.
From 18 to 20 October, seven folk art troupes representing Aswan, Port Said, Sohag, Sharqia, New Valley, Matrouh and Toshka performed at cultural venues throughout Aswan Governorate. These included cultural palaces, theatres, libraries and Aswan University.
A further performance took place at Aswan&rsquo;s tourist market on Wednesday evening, attended by the governor, the head of the General Authority for Cultural Palaces, local residents and visitors.
The festival was held under the patronage of Abdelaziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Acting Minister of Culture, and Aswan Governor Amr Lashin. It was organised by the General Authority for Cultural Palaces, headed by Hisham Atwa, in cooperation with cultural institutions across southern Upper Egypt.
Photo Credit: MENA&rsquo;s official page

Abu Simbel Sun Festival: 7,000 Tourists Witness Ramses II Solar Alignment

Egypt is set to experience autumn weather on Thursday, 22 October 2026, with temperatures reaching 29&deg;C in Cairo. Conditions are expected to be warm to hot during the day across northern Egypt, Greater Cairo, and northern Upper Egypt, while southern Upper Egypt will experience hot weather. Temperatures are expected to drop at night, with conditions tending towards cool to cold, according to the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA).
There is a chance of light rain across parts of the North Coast and northern Lower Egypt, which may become moderate at times, with a probability of approximately 30% in some areas, particularly parts of North Sinai, Port Said, and northern Lower Egypt.
Light rain is also possible in scattered areas of the Suez Canal cities, southern Lower Egypt, and central Sinai, with a probability of approximately 20%. The showers may occasionally extend to parts of Greater Cairo.
Winds are expected to become active intermittently across most parts of the country, reaching speeds of 30 to 40 km/h.
<a href="https://ibb.co/9mY4bFgZ"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/8n8xrWsY/Egypt-Weather-2026-10-22-T082447-632.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-10-22-T082447-632" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Freepik (Magnific)

Egypt Weather Forecast: Cairo Records 29°C As Rain Chances Rise On 22 October 2026

The US dollar is trading at EGP 54.46 for buying and EGP 54.56 for selling, according to the latest exchange rates published by the National Bank of Egypt (NBE) on Thursday, 22 October 2026.
Among other major currencies, the British pound is trading at EGP 72.88 for buying and EGP 73.15 for selling, while the euro is trading at EGP 61.14 for buying and EGP 61.41 for selling. The Chinese yuan is trading at EGP 8.15 for buying and EGP 8.17 for selling.
The UAE dirham is trading at EGP 14.81 for buying and EGP 14.85 for selling.
Exchange rates are closely monitored by businesses, investors and consumers, as fluctuations in the Egyptian pound can affect import costs, investment decisions and the wider economy.
<a href="https://ibb.co/s9xpzzNX"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/hFQxww4T/Exchange-Rates-2026-10-22-T113000-882.png" alt="Exchange-Rates-2026-10-22-T113000-882" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Freepik (Magnific)
&nbsp;

Exchange Rates: US Dollar Trades At EGP 54.46 Against The Egyptian Pound On 22 October 2026

Top News 
Current Affairs 
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News

After a 24-day break, the Egyptian Premier League returns with one of Egyptian football&rsquo;s most anticipated fixtures: the Cairo derby between Al Ahly and Zamalek.
The two rivals are set to meet at Cairo International Stadium at 8:00 PM on Sunday, October 11, in the sixth round of the 2026/2027 Egyptian Premier League season. The league&rsquo;s schedule was interrupted by national team commitments during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Why Is This Match Important for Both Teams?
Pyramids FC currently lead the Egyptian Premier League standings with 15 points from five wins. Zamalek sit second with 13 points from four wins and one draw, while Al Ahly occupy third place with the same number of points and an identical record.
With both Cairo rivals chasing the league leaders, Sunday's derby presents an important opportunity to strengthen their positions in the standings.
The Cairo Derby in Numbers
According to Al Ahly's official page, the two teams had faced each other 132 times in the Cairo derby before this match. Al Ahly recorded 52 victories, while Zamalek won 29 times. The remaining 51 encounters ended in draws.
Sunday's fixture will therefore mark the 133rd Cairo derby. Check out the infographic below for a closer look at the numbers behind this historic rivalry.
<a href="https://ibb.co/3mf0wBNQ"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/hFXKkDWw/Poster-Team-A-vs-Team-B-3.png" alt="Poster-Team-A-vs-Team-B-3" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Head-to-Head Record Across All Competitions
According to Al Ahly&rsquo;s official website, the two clubs had met 243 times across all competitions as of May 1, 2026. Al Ahly recorded 107 wins, compared with 56 victories for Zamalek, while 80 matches ended in draws. Al Ahly had scored 366 goals, while Zamalek had netted 254.
Biggest Wins in Egyptian Premier League History
According to Al Ahly&rsquo;s official website, Al Ahly&rsquo;s biggest league victory over Zamalek came in the 2001&ndash;2002 season, when the Red Devils won 6&ndash;1. Other notable victories include a 5&ndash;3 win in the 2021&ndash;2022 season, 4&ndash;1 victories in the 1960&ndash;1961 and 2022&ndash;2023 seasons, and 4&ndash;2 wins in the 1953&ndash;1954 and 2004&ndash;2005 seasons.
Al Ahly also recorded several 3&ndash;0 victories over their rivals. Zamalek&rsquo;s biggest league win over Al Ahly came by a 3&ndash;1 scoreline, a result the White Knights achieved four times.
Photo credit: Al Ahly's official page

Infographic | Ahly vs. Zamalek: Head-to-Head Stats Ahead Of Derby 133

A few days after Cristiano Ronaldo's sudden departure from Portugal's national team camp raised questions about his international future, the 41-year-old captain has broken his silence and explained what led to his decision.
Ronaldo left Portugal's Nations League camp in Copenhagen on September 30, ahead of the team's match against Denmark, after being left on the bench during the 2-1 win over Norway and learning that he would not start against Denmark.
In a lengthy statement shared on his official account, Ronaldo said his decision was driven by what he described as two broken promises from Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus, while also taking responsibility for leaving the camp.
Ronaldo Had Already Prepared to Leave After the 2026 World Cup
Ronaldo revealed that he had already prepared a letter to the Portuguese people following the 2026 World Cup, containing the words he intended to share when he eventually left the national team.
However, he said Portuguese Football Federation President Pedro Proen&ccedil;a asked him to reconsider his decision and continue representing Portugal.
Ronaldo also revealed that he supported the eventual appointment of the current head coach, saying he believed Jesus was the right choice for the national team.
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Ronaldo Says Coach Broke His Word
According to Ronaldo, he and Jesus had initially agreed on a plan to manage his fitness, under which he would play Portugal's first match of the camp before staying in Portugal for the games against Norway and Denmark.
However, Ronaldo said Jesus later told him he could be used for 30 minutes against Norway. Ronaldo agreed despite the change to his recovery plan, but said he warmed up from halftime and was never brought onto the pitch.
Ronaldo described the situation as the first time Jesus had failed to keep his word to him.
The two later met with Sim&atilde;o Coutinho, Al-Nassr's sporting director, present. Ronaldo said they agreed that Jesus would publicly clarify that Ronaldo had never asked to play and that the decision to have him warm up without bringing him on was the coach's mistake.
Ronaldo said the coach's subsequent press conference did not reflect what had been agreed privately, which he described as the second time Jesus had failed to keep his word.
Why Ronaldo Decided to Leave Portugal's Camp
Ronaldo said he ultimately decided to leave the camp because he felt that remaining would only harm the group after the breakdown in trust.
&ldquo;For me, the truth is still the most important thing in the relationship between people,&rdquo; Ronaldo said, explaining that he would have accepted the situation if the coach and federation had simply been honest with him about whether they wanted him in the squad.
He also stressed that he has never interfered with the technical or tactical decisions of Portugal's coaches during his international career.
Ronaldo Apologizes to Fans and Teammates
Despite defending the reasons behind his decision, Ronaldo accepted responsibility for leaving the camp and apologized to Portugal's supporters and his teammates.
He also apologized for not greeting the fans following the Norway match, acknowledging that it was a mistake that should not have happened.
&ldquo;At the end of the match, I just wanted everything to be over with a victory and to be left alone,&rdquo; Ronaldo said. &ldquo;I did not go to greet the fans. That is a failing that is solely my responsibility and should not have happened.&rdquo;
He added that he apologized to the Portuguese people, the fans, and those who had traveled to see him.
Ronaldo acknowledged that, as Portugal's captain, his actions carry greater responsibility and said he accepts that the Portuguese Football Federation should assess and punish his conduct if necessary.
Ronaldo Is Not Retiring From Portugal
Despite the controversy, Ronaldo made clear that he is not announcing his retirement from international football.
Addressing reports that he could receive a farewell match, Ronaldo said there would be time for that, but stressed that his focus remains on competing for Portugal.
&ldquo;I can promise all my fans, naturally and especially all the Portuguese people, that we will have one or more farewell matches; there will be time for that,&rdquo; he said.
However, he added that when he thinks about the national team, he thinks about competing.
Ronaldo said that if he remains physically fit, continues performing for Al-Nassr, and serves any suspension imposed on him, he will remain available to compete for Portugal.
His statement leaves the door open for a return to the national team, while the circumstances surrounding his departure remain a major talking point.
Ronaldo's Pursuit of 1,000 Career Goals Continues
Away from the national team controversy, Ronaldo has returned to training with Al-Nassr as he continues his pursuit of 1,000 career goals.
According to Reuters, Ronaldo has scored 979 goals for Portugal and his clubs, leaving him 21 goals away from reaching the historic milestone.
Photo Credit: Cristiano Ronaldo&rsquo;s official page

Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Silence: Why He Walked Away From Portugal Camp

The moment Cristiano Ronaldo fans have always feared may be getting closer. The Portugal captain has left the national team&rsquo;s training camp in Copenhagen following the press conference held by head coach Jorge Jesus and a conversation with Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) President Pedro Proen&ccedil;a, according to a statement Ronaldo shared on his official Instagram account.
Ronaldo also said that he would reveal the reasons behind his decision &ldquo;in due course,&rdquo; leaving questions over whether his latest departure could mark the end of his international career.
&ldquo;In due time, I will tell all the Portuguese about the reasons that motivated my departure from the national team, which I always dedicated myself to,&rdquo; Ronaldo said in his statement.
What Happened?
Ronaldo started Portugal&rsquo;s Nations League opener against Wales before being left out of the starting lineup for the team&rsquo;s next match against Norway. He remained an unused substitute as Portugal secured a 2-1 victory. According to Reuters, Jesus had told Ronaldo that he would come on as a substitute but ultimately decided not to bring him onto the pitch.
Following the match, Ronaldo worked in the gym rather than training with the rest of the squad on Monday and Tuesday. Reuters reported that he was not injured during that period.
Speaking to the media ahead of Portugal&rsquo;s Nations League match against Denmark, head coach Jorge Jesus denied that Ronaldo had refused to train and said there had been no incident between them. According to Reuters, Jesus said Ronaldo was upset after being left on the bench against Norway but considered the matter resolved.
&ldquo;There was nothing to talk about,&rdquo; Jesus said, according to Reuters, while explaining that Ronaldo had told him he would accept whatever decision the coach made, whether that meant playing or being left out of the squad.
Jesus also rejected the suggestion that Ronaldo had refused to train, saying: &ldquo;He didn&rsquo;t refuse. He&rsquo;s going to train today.&rdquo; He explained that it was the fourth day after the match and said Ronaldo would return to training with the team.
However, Ronaldo did not take part in Portugal&rsquo;s final training session before the Denmark match. The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed his absence, while Reuters reported that Ronaldo subsequently left the training camp in Copenhagen.
Ronaldo later confirmed that he had decided to leave the national team&rsquo;s training camp following Jesus&rsquo; press conference and a conversation with Portuguese Football Federation President Pedro Proen&ccedil;a. The FPF confirmed his departure and said the remaining 24 players would continue preparations for the upcoming fixtures.
Ronaldo&rsquo;s Own Explanation
Ronaldo has not yet provided the full explanation behind his decision.
In his statement, he said that he decided to leave following the national team manager&rsquo;s press conference and his conversation with the FPF president. He also promised to explain his reasons to the Portuguese people &ldquo;in due course.&rdquo;
For now, his statement leaves more questions than answers about what happened behind the scenes.
Has Cristiano Ronaldo Retired From Portugal?
Not officially. Ronaldo confirmed that he had decided to leave Portugal&rsquo;s training camp, but he did not announce his retirement from international football. The Portuguese Football Federation likewise confirmed his departure from the camp rather than announcing an end to his international career.
That distinction is important. While his sudden departure has raised questions about his future with Portugal, there has been no official announcement from Ronaldo confirming that he has permanently retired from international football.
Ronaldo&rsquo;s Portugal Legacy
Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in 2003 and has since become the country&rsquo;s most-capped player and all-time leading scorer.
According to Reuters, he has made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 international goals. His international career has also included Portugal&rsquo;s historic Euro 2016 triumph and two Nations League titles.
From his first appearance as a teenager to becoming Portugal&rsquo;s captain and record-holder, Ronaldo has spent more than two decades at the heart of the national team.
Will This Be His Last Dance?
Ronaldo started Portugal&rsquo;s 1-0 victory over Wales before being left on the bench for the entire match against Norway. If he does not return to the national team, the Wales game could ultimately become his final international appearance.
However, it is too early to describe it as his final game because Ronaldo has not confirmed his retirement from international football.
For now, the question remains open.
Reaching the Saddest Moment
For more than two decades, Ronaldo&rsquo;s Portugal story has been defined by records, trophies, heartbreak and an enduring commitment to the national team.
Now, after leaving the training camp and promising to reveal the reasons behind his decision later, a new chapter may be approaching.
The biggest question is no longer what Cristiano Ronaldo has achieved for Portugal. It is whether he will wear the national shirt again.
Photo Credit: Cristiano Ronaldo&rsquo;s official page
&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo Leaves Portugal Camp: Is This The End Of His International Career?

Following Egypt&rsquo;s 5&ndash;0 victory over South Sudan in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Barcelona forward Hamza Abdelkarim made history by scoring his first international goal for Egypt in the 92nd minute.
The goal marked a major milestone in the 18-year-old forward&rsquo;s international career, as Abdelkarim became the third-youngest player to score his first goal for the Egyptian national team. His late strike also helped seal Egypt&rsquo;s convincing victory in the AFCON qualifiers.
The result also strengthened Egypt&rsquo;s position in Group B of the AFCON qualifiers, while Abdelkarim&rsquo;s goal added another milestone to his rapid rise at both club and international level.
Third-Youngest Egyptian Scorer
According to Transfermarkt, Hamza Abdelkarim scored his first goal for Egypt at the age of 18 years, 8 months, and 28 days, placing him third among the youngest players to score their first goal for the national team.
Abdelkarim Sakr remains the youngest, having scored at the 1936 Olympic Games at the age of 17 years, 8 months, and 28 days. Ahmed Hossam Mido ranks second, having scored his first international goal at the age of 17 years, 10 months, and 14 days during a friendly against the United Arab Emirates in 2001.
With his goal against South Sudan, Abdelkarim entered the list at 18 years, 8 months, and 28 days old.
Hamza Abdelkarim and Barcelona
Abdelkarim began his Barcelona journey after joining the club from Al Ahly on loan in February 2026. He made an immediate impact with Barcelona&rsquo;s U-19 side, scoring six goals in nine league appearances, including a hat-trick.
In June, Barcelona exercised its purchase option to sign the Egyptian forward permanently, initially agreeing to a contract until June 2029.
However, in September 2026, Barcelona reached a new agreement with Abdelkarim to extend his contract until 30 June 2030. He also made his competitive first-team debut on 31 August against Rayo Vallecano after scoring four goals during pre-season.
Photo Credit: Egypt National Team&rsquo;s official page
&nbsp;

Hamza Abdelkarim Becomes Third-Youngest Egypt Scorer With First International Goal

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According to a statement shared by the Spokesman for the Egyptian Presidency on its official Facebook page, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi attended the opening of the Egypt Forum 2026 on Monday morning in the New Administrative Capital, in the presence of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, House of Representatives Speaker Hisham Badawy, Senate Speaker Essam El-Din Farid, ministers, and senior state officials.
Presidential Spokesperson Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said the opening session began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a film titled &ldquo;What Do We Expect from the Forum?&rdquo; and a presentation titled &ldquo;Where Did We Begin?&rdquo; This was followed by a film titled &ldquo;If You Met the President, What Would You Say to Him?&rdquo; and an address by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.
The session continued with a film titled &ldquo;Egypt Through the Eyes of the World,&rdquo; followed by a segment titled &ldquo;What Does It Mean to Be Egyptian?&rdquo; The first part concluded with a musical performance of the song &ldquo;Masry&rdquo; by a children&rsquo;s choir from the Cairo Opera House. President El-Sisi greeted the children following their performance.
The second part of the session featured a presentation on national identity, a film titled &ldquo;How Awareness Shapes Us,&rdquo; and a segment titled &ldquo;Generation Z: How Do We Choose Our Sources?&rdquo; These were followed by a film addressing the negative impact of social media and a discussion on awareness, misinformation, and the responsible use of technology. The programme also included a film on rumours and their impact on Egyptian society, a segment on the &ldquo;Rumour Platform,&rdquo; and a film titled &ldquo;Dream and Reality.&rdquo;
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According to the presidential spokesperson, President El-Sisi stressed during his remarks that the forum&rsquo;s preparations prioritised providing accurate and comprehensive information from the government, listening to different viewpoints, discussing them, and accepting criticism.
The president also emphasised the importance of public awareness and countering attempts to undermine Egypt&rsquo;s national memory, particularly through social media. He noted that similar attempts had taken place before 2014, adding that efforts to influence a country as populous and strategically significant as Egypt, or to marginalise its role, would continue. He described this as a struggle involving both the state and its people.
El-Sisi said his repeated references to the events of 2011 were intended to reinforce public awareness and highlight the importance of preserving the Egyptian state, particularly among children and young people who did not experience that period. While differences in opinion are acceptable, he stressed that preserving the state remains a fundamental principle that must not be compromised.
The president further noted that the stability achieved in recent years had come at a significant cost, with Egypt making considerable sacrifices, including the loss of members of the armed forces, police, and judiciary, as well as worshippers in mosques and churches. He also highlighted the financial resources spent on achieving stability and combating terrorism.
El-Sisi underscored the importance of reminding the public of the insecurity Egypt experienced between 2011 and 2013, stressing that stability must remain firmly rooted in the national consciousness.
Addressing concerns raised during the session about the risks associated with social media, the president called for moderation and responsible use of technology. He warned against attempts to isolate individuals and mobilise groups of citizens in ways that could lead to the destruction of their own country. He also highlighted the responsibility of Egyptian families to balance technological progress with supervision of their children's use of digital platforms.
The president explained that the forum aims to review the government's work across various sectors, compare conditions before and after development projects, and give citizens a closer look at achievements made within available resources and circumstances to address longstanding challenges. He added that the forum seeks to reassure citizens about their country's progress, stressing that individuals eventually leave office, while Egypt remains.
El-Sisi also said Egyptians had embarked on a genuine phase of nation-building in recent years, despite the considerable risks associated with major decisions. He noted that these decisions were necessary, particularly given Egypt's population growth of nearly 30 million people since 2011.
The president urged citizens to pay close attention to the details and data presented throughout the forum, highlighting their direct impact on people's lives. He added that the government would outline its actions over the previous period, explain what the situation might have been had those measures not been taken, and present its plans for the future.
Photo Credit: Spokesman for the Egyptian Presidency&rsquo;s official page

Egypt Forum 2026 Opens As El-Sisi Highlights National Awareness

1984 Ventures Founder and General Partner Ramy Adeeb discusses why bringing together voices from different industries is essential to shaping Egypt&rsquo;s narrative and future in an interview with Zeinab on NileFM.
Egypt&rsquo;s story extends beyond any single industry, encompassing art, culture, technology, investment and social development. At Narrative Summit 2026 in Somabay, on Egypt&rsquo;s Red Sea coast, participants from different backgrounds came together to discuss the country&rsquo;s identity, potential and future.
Speaking with Zeinab on NileFM following his panel discussion at the summit, Ramy Adeeb, Founder and General Partner of 1984 Ventures, reflected on this year&rsquo;s edition and explained why bringing together people with different perspectives is essential to meaningful conversations about Egypt.
Adeeb praised the gathering, highlighting the diverse mix of Egyptian and international participants and the opportunity to exchange ideas across sectors.
Why Diverse Conversations Matter
For Adeeb, the value of Narrative Summit lies in bringing together people who might not typically find themselves in the same room.
Drawing on his experience of attending conferences throughout his career, he explained that many events focus on a particular field, whether economics, politics or the arts.
Narrative Summit, by contrast, creates a space for people from different industries to exchange ideas and discuss Egypt&rsquo;s story from a range of perspectives.
&ldquo;To me, a conference is about the conversations and the people,&rdquo; Adeeb said.
He identified the diversity of participants as one of the summit&rsquo;s defining characteristics, with voices representing sectors ranging from the arts and culture to technology, venture capital, government and non-profit organisations.
&ldquo;What is unique about this conversation is the diversity of the individuals who come from art, from culture, from development, from venture capital and technology, from nonprofits, from the government, all talking about our story,&rdquo; he added.
By bringing these perspectives together, the summit encourages a broader understanding of Egypt and its future, moving beyond the priorities of any single industry.
Telling Egypt&rsquo;s Story Beyond The Headlines
Adeeb also highlighted the importance of recognising the different narratives that shape Egypt&rsquo;s identity and the value of giving them greater visibility.
Gatherings such as Narrative Summit provide an opportunity to explore the country&rsquo;s story through the experiences, ideas and ambitions of people working across different sectors.
The exchange of perspectives can also help participants identify shared priorities and consider how their respective fields might contribute to Egypt&rsquo;s future.
For Adeeb, the diversity of the gathering was among the most inspiring aspects of the experience.
&ldquo;And to me, that diversity and completeness of the crowd just is inspiring, and it gives me hope for what Egypt is today and where it can become,&rdquo; he said.
As Narrative Summit 2026 brings together voices from across industries and backgrounds, Adeeb&rsquo;s reflections underline the importance of creating spaces for different experiences and ideas to meet. By encouraging dialogue beyond traditional professional boundaries, such gatherings offer an opportunity to explore Egypt&rsquo;s potential and the possibilities for its future.
&nbsp;

Ramy Adeeb On Egypt’s Story And The Power Of Diverse Conversations At Narrative Summit 2026

UpRound by Brinc Founding Managing Member Bashar Aboudaoud discusses how artificial intelligence is changing the way people learn and work, and why continuous learning is essential, in an interview with Zeinab on NileFM.
As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and workplaces, the ability to adapt, acquire new skills and keep learning has become increasingly important. At Narrative Summit 2026 in Somabay, on Egypt&rsquo;s Red Sea coast, technology and its impact on communities formed part of the wider discussion about the country&rsquo;s future.
Speaking with Zeinab on NileFM as part of the station&rsquo;s special coverage of Narrative Summit 2026, Bashar Aboudaoud, Founding Managing Member at UpRound by Brinc, reflected on his first experience at the summit and explained how its theme, &ldquo;Beyond Reset&rdquo;, relates to his personal and professional life.
Why Narrative Summit 2026?
Aboudaoud explained that he first heard about the summit through his sister, who knows Lamia Kamel. An invitation and an introduction to the summit&rsquo;s vision encouraged him to attend.
&ldquo;What appealed to me was talking about Egypt and seeing the change. The narrative itself is something that really appealed to me. I wanted to come here to be a small part of it, and it&rsquo;s been fantastic,&rdquo; he said.
For Aboudaoud, the event provided an opportunity to take part in conversations about Egypt&rsquo;s evolving identity and the ideas shaping its future.
Beyond Reset: Why Continuous Learning Matters
Reflecting on the summit&rsquo;s theme, &ldquo;Beyond Reset&rdquo;, Aboudaoud linked the idea to the rapid development of artificial intelligence and the need for individuals to adapt to technological change.
During his panel discussion, he explored AI&rsquo;s impact on communities, highlighting the importance of updating skills and expanding knowledge as new technologies change professional environments.
&ldquo;For me, the reset is continuous learning,&rdquo; he explained.
Aboudaoud argued that learning should not be treated as a one-off response to disruption. Instead, it should be an ongoing process, driven by curiosity, adaptability and a willingness to explore new tools and ways of working.
As AI becomes more widely used across industries, he suggested, continuous learning will be increasingly important for people seeking to remain informed and develop their professional skills.
How AI Can Make Knowledge More Accessible
Asked how people can use AI without losing sight of their original vision, Aboudaoud encouraged them to approach the technology as a practical tool rather than something to fear.
&ldquo;Listen, for me, AI is not a scary tool. It&rsquo;s like any other tool,&rdquo; he said.
He recommended starting with simple interactions: asking questions, exploring unfamiliar subjects and using AI to learn more about areas relevant to one&rsquo;s interests or professional field.
&ldquo;The simplest way is just to talk to it, and it will tell you, in whatever domain you&rsquo;re in, something that you can learn,&rdquo; he explained.
Aboudaoud sees this accessibility as an opportunity to democratise knowledge by helping people explore subjects they might otherwise find difficult to understand or access.
However, using AI effectively also requires people to remain curious and actively engage with the information it provides. The technology can support learning, but individuals still need to develop their understanding and assess what they learn.
Looking Ahead: AI And The Future Of Learning
Aboudaoud&rsquo;s message at Narrative Summit 2026 was that adapting to technological change begins with a commitment to continuous learning.
As artificial intelligence influences how people work, develop skills and access information, the challenge is not simply to keep pace with new tools. It is to understand how to use them effectively and turn their capabilities into opportunities for learning and growth.
&nbsp;

Bashar Aboudaoud On AI And Continuous Learning At Narrative Summit 2026

Credence Hospitality Developments chairman and chief executive Islam Mahdy discusses Egypt&rsquo;s tourism growth, rising international appeal and the importance of turning industry discussions into actionable ideas in an interview with Zeinab on NileFM, as part of NileFM&rsquo;s special coverage of Narrative Summit 2026.
Egypt&rsquo;s tourism industry has expanded in recent years, supported by infrastructure development, major cultural attractions and growing international interest. As the country seeks to strengthen its position as a global travel destination, the challenge is to sustain this momentum and unlock further opportunities for the hospitality sector.
Speaking to Zeinab on NileFM during Narrative Summit 2026 in Soma Bay on Egypt&rsquo;s Red Sea coast, Mahdy shared his perspective on the hospitality industry, reflecting on the summit&rsquo;s discussions and the factors contributing to Egypt&rsquo;s growing appeal among international visitors.
Narrative Summit 2026: Turning Conversations into Action
Reflecting on his first participation in Narrative Summit, Mahdy described the experience as impressive, highlighting the shared ambition among participants to showcase Egypt&rsquo;s potential and contribute to its development.
&ldquo;What was impressive is the fact that everyone kind of resonated, and everyone kind of had one consistent message, which is presenting and bringing the best out of Egypt,&rdquo; he said.
Mahdy particularly welcomed the constructive nature of the discussions, explaining that participants focused on identifying opportunities and proposing solutions rather than simply criticising existing challenges.
&ldquo;It was very hopeful. It wasn&rsquo;t kind of critical, it was prescriptive, which is great because anyone can criticize, but if you can really contribute to ideas and ways to move the country forward, this is, I believe, what everyone needs,&rdquo; he added.
For Mahdy, the value of such gatherings lies in their ability to encourage meaningful contributions and translate shared ambitions into practical steps towards Egypt&rsquo;s development.
Egypt&rsquo;s Tourism Growth: A Promising Outlook
Discussing developments in Egypt&rsquo;s tourism industry over recent years, Mahdy pointed to what he described as strong growth, while acknowledging the potential for further progress.
He cited tourism growth of approximately 20% in the previous year, compared with a global average of around 5%, highlighting the difference as an indication of Egypt&rsquo;s growing appeal.
&ldquo;The trajectory in the past three years has been phenomenal. We&rsquo;ve grown 20% last year. The global average is 5%, so that&rsquo;s phenomenal growth,&rdquo; he said.
Mahdy attributed this momentum partly to developments that are strengthening Egypt&rsquo;s appeal to international visitors, including major cultural attractions and improvements to infrastructure.
He highlighted the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum as one of the developments helping to draw attention to the country, alongside ongoing infrastructure projects.
&ldquo;With the opening of the Grand Museum, with all the work that&rsquo;s happening in the infrastructure, people want to come,&rdquo; he said.
What&rsquo;s Next for Egypt&rsquo;s Hospitality Industry?
Despite the progress, Mahdy believes Egypt&rsquo;s hospitality sector has considerable room for further development.
Continued tourism growth presents opportunities for businesses to enhance their offerings, respond to changing visitor expectations and build on the country&rsquo;s expanding international profile.
For Mahdy, the changes taking place across Egypt reflect positive momentum, supported by infrastructure investment and the appeal of its cultural attractions.
&ldquo;Yes, I do feel that there was a lot of change happening in the past few years,&rdquo; he said.
As Egypt continues to attract international attention, Mahdy&rsquo;s perspective highlights the importance of building on this momentum through constructive collaboration, practical ideas and sustained development across the hospitality and tourism sectors.
&nbsp;

Islam Mahdy On Egypt’s Tourism Boom And Hospitality Growth At Narrative Summit 2026

Consultant surgeon and educator Dr Sherif Hakky discusses how artificial intelligence is challenging doctors, improving medical practice and transforming patient care in an interview with Zeinab on NileFM.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how people approach healthcare, from researching symptoms to diagnosing and managing medical conditions. But as the technology advances, an important question remains: can AI replace the human side of medicine?
Speaking to Zeinab on NileFM following his panel at Narrative Summit 2026 in Soma Bay on Egypt&rsquo;s Red Sea coast, Dr Hakky discussed AI&rsquo;s growing influence on medicine and how healthcare professionals can adapt to the changes it brings.
Describing the panel as an interesting mix of perspectives, Hakky explained that the discussion explored the disruption AI could bring to communities and how its impact could be harnessed for the benefit of society in the years ahead.
How AI Is Challenging Doctors
For Hakky, AI is more than another technological development. It is also a challenge that encourages doctors to continually improve their knowledge and clinical practice.
&ldquo;Actually, it becomes a challenge. It has to make me a better doctor because I&rsquo;m being challenged on a daily basis by AI,&rdquo; he said.
He pointed out that patients increasingly turn to AI tools before consulting a doctor, arriving at appointments with questions, suggested diagnoses and information about their symptoms.
This shift means doctors must be prepared to discuss possible diagnoses, explain their clinical reasoning and determine which investigations and tests are appropriate for each patient.
Hakky acknowledged that consultations can become more demanding as patients become increasingly informed and expect clear, well-supported answers from their healthcare providers.
However, he also highlighted the potential benefits of AI in medical practice, particularly in improving aspects of diagnosis and patient care.
Can AI Improve Patient Care?
Beyond its influence on consultations, AI is being explored in medical fields including radiology, endoscopy and colonoscopy.
According to Hakky, these applications have the potential to improve diagnostic performance, including sensitivity and specificity, helping doctors make more informed clinical decisions.
Sensitivity measures how effectively a test identifies people who have a particular condition, while specificity measures how effectively it identifies those who do not.
Hakky noted that AI has been tested across numerous models and is likely to continue evolving as the technology advances.
Rather than viewing AI solely as a source of disruption, he sees an opportunity for healthcare professionals to integrate technological advances into their practice and improve the services they provide.
Will AI Replace Doctors?
As AI becomes more capable, concerns about whether it could eventually replace doctors are growing.
Asked whether he feared AI might take over the medical profession, Hakky acknowledged the difficulty of predicting how the technology would develop.
&ldquo;Never say never,&rdquo; he said, adding that he did not expect doctors to be replaced by AI within his lifetime.
For Hakky, the issue extends beyond the technical aspects of medicine. Patients consult doctors not only to have medical problems diagnosed, treated or managed, but also to feel heard and understood.
&ldquo;You go to a doctor to get a decent service, to get something fixed, managed or repaired, but you&rsquo;re also there to be understood, talked with, to feel compassion and empathy,&rdquo; he explained.
He emphasised that these human qualities remain central to healthcare, expressing doubt that machines would be able to provide the same level of compassion and empathy in the foreseeable future.
As AI continues to reshape healthcare, Hakky&rsquo;s perspective highlights the importance of balancing technological progress with human connection, ensuring that innovation serves patients without losing sight of the people behind every diagnosis.
&nbsp;

Dr Sherif Hakky On How AI Is Transforming Healthcare At Narrative Summit 2026

Egyptian journalist Rahma Zein discussed humanity, solidarity, and the importance of speaking up about the region&rsquo;s ongoing crises in an interview with Zeinab on NileFM, as part of NileFM&rsquo;s special coverage of Narrative Summit 2026.
&ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s very important for everyone to realise that we&rsquo;re all, that all our plights are intertwined,&rdquo; she said.
Speaking to NileFM following her panel at Narrative Summit 2026, held in Soma Bay on Egypt&rsquo;s Red Sea coast, Zein reflected on her first participation in the event&rsquo;s 10th edition, themed &ldquo;Beyond Reset&rdquo;, and the importance of creating spaces for meaningful conversations.
Invited by Lamia Kamel, Zein welcomed the opportunity to share her perspective, address pressing issues and encourage people to engage with conversations that matter.
A Space for Honest Conversations
Reflecting on her first experience at Narrative Summit, Zein expressed her appreciation for being encouraged to speak openly about issues she believes deserve attention.
&ldquo;Lamia invited me. This is the first year I joined, and she was so sweet because she said, &lsquo;Be as you are&rsquo;,&rdquo; Zein said.
She explained that being welcomed without pressure to soften her message was particularly meaningful, especially when discussing difficult realities unfolding across the region.
&ldquo;You&rsquo;re not told that you&rsquo;re too much. You&rsquo;re not told that you&rsquo;re making the room gloomy. You&rsquo;re told that what you&rsquo;re saying is important,&rdquo; she added.
For Zein, the opportunity to address these issues highlights the importance of platforms that allow people to confront uncomfortable realities rather than avoid them.
&ldquo;What&rsquo;s happening now in the region has to be talked about. And here&rsquo;s the platform, do so,&rdquo; she said.
Humanity Beyond Labels
During her panel, Zein focused on humanity and the responsibility individuals share in responding to the suffering of others. She argued that compassion should not depend on political labels, professional identities or whether someone identifies as an activist.
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t believe in these isms that categorise you. I&rsquo;m not, I don&rsquo;t identify as an activist, for example,&rdquo; she explained.
Instead, Zein described speaking out against the suffering and destruction experienced by families as a fundamental human responsibility.
&ldquo;I think it is the bare minimum for humanity to talk against the eradication of families. I think this is ABC for all of us,&rdquo; she said.
She emphasised that empathy does not require a particular background or specialised language, pointing to the universal understanding of a parent&rsquo;s grief.
&ldquo;It doesn&rsquo;t take a certain language to understand a mother crying,&rdquo; Zein added.
According to Zein, individuals can embrace this responsibility in their everyday lives, alongside their professional commitments, rather than treating it as something separate from their daily routines.
Why Our Struggles Are Interconnected
Zein also highlighted the importance of recognising the connections between different forms of suffering, arguing that the challenges people face cannot always be understood in isolation.
She described the current state of affairs as deeply troubling, expressing concern about the wider systems she believes are contributing to the crises unfolding across the world.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s all one system that&rsquo;s putting us in this horrific sort of, it&rsquo;s just insanity where we are today,&rdquo; she said.
Her remarks returned to the idea that humanity and solidarity should extend beyond geographical borders, political affiliations and individual circumstances.
Concluding the conversation, Zein reflected on the uncertainty and fear surrounding the world&rsquo;s current realities, posing a question that captured the concerns underlying the discussion: &ldquo;How did we get here?&rdquo;
Through her participation in Narrative Summit 2026, Zein underscored the importance of keeping humanity at the centre of public conversations and recognising that speaking up about the suffering of others is not simply a personal choice, but a shared responsibility.
&nbsp;

Rahma Zein On Humanity And Solidarity At Narrative Summit 2026

The United Nations Children&rsquo;s Fund (UNICEF) has praised Egypt&rsquo;s National Program for Developing Arabic Language Skills, highlighting significant improvements in students&rsquo; reading and writing abilities following the completion of the program&rsquo;s first three phases.
According to a statement shared on the official page of the Egyptian Cabinet, more than 1.38 million students across Egypt&rsquo;s 27 governorates were assessed as part of the program.
UNICEF noted that the most significant improvements were recorded among children who initially demonstrated lower levels of reading and writing skills. The results, according to the organization, reflect the program&rsquo;s impact in helping children catch up on missed learning and strengthen their foundational skills.
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Building on the results of the first three phases, the fourth phase of the National Program for Developing Arabic Language Skills is now set to begin.
The fourth phase will run alongside the launch of the National Program for Developing Mathematics Skills, expanding efforts to support children&rsquo;s foundational learning skills across Egypt.
UNICEF emphasized that reading, writing, and numeracy are essential foundations for children&rsquo;s learning and development, reaffirming its commitment to supporting children in Egypt in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Technical Education and other program partners.
Photo Credit: UNICEF&rsquo;s official page

UNICEF Praises Egypt’s National Arabic Language Skills Development Program

Dr Abdel Aziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Acting Minister of Culture, has chaired the second meeting of the Supreme Committee overseeing preparations for the 58th Cairo International Book Fair, scheduled for 2027.
The meeting focused on preparations for the upcoming edition, including digital transformation, infrastructure development and proposals to improve visitor services, according to a statement published on the Egyptian Cabinet's official page.
Digital Transformation And Organisational Development
Konsowa described the 58th edition as an important milestone in the digital transformation and organisational development of the region's largest cultural event.
He said preparations would go beyond addressing logistical challenges, focusing instead on establishing sustainable digital and investment infrastructure. The plans include the use of artificial intelligence and smart technologies to serve millions of visitors and improve access to cultural content.
He also reaffirmed the state's commitment to supporting the publishing industry and preserving Egypt's cultural influence.
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Reviewing The 57th Edition
The committee reviewed statistical data from the 57th edition to identify areas for improvement and draw on previous experience in planning the next fair.
It also discussed the structure and responsibilities of the executive committees and ways to improve coordination between them.
The committees oversee various aspects of the event, including the main exhibition hall, intellectual and artistic activities, poetry, novels, book discussions and signings, international participation, and the Guest of Honour programme. Other areas include children's activities, professional events, conferences and media coverage.
The committee also discussed the criteria for selecting the central figure and slogan of the 58th edition, as well as the intellectual and cultural themes to be explored during the fair.
Smart Visitor Services
Plans for a unified digital system and mobile application were also discussed, with the platform scheduled to be ready by 1 December 2026.
The proposed system will offer visitors smart search tools for books and publishers, interactive maps and electronic ticketing. The committee also considered introducing an artificial intelligence assistant and providing access to selected services without an internet connection.
The meeting addressed the infrastructure and network requirements at the Egypt International Exhibitions Center. A joint team from the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology is working on the technical requirements.
The committee also discussed expanding advertising opportunities for sponsors and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fair's digital services.
Developing The Exhibition Layout
The Capital University Consulting Center presented its architectural and engineering plans for redesigning the exhibition layout.
The proposals include improving visitor circulation, expanding exhibition spaces, widening main corridors and redistributing areas to ensure fair opportunities for publishers of different sizes.
The committee highlighted the importance of building on previous editions while upgrading the fair's infrastructure and services to accommodate its growing scale and international profile.
Coordination With Publishers
The committee also discussed plans for a coordination meeting with publishers represented by the Egyptian and Arab Publishers' Unions, in cooperation with e-finance.
The meeting will focus on technical proposals for the digital system and incorporating publishers' requirements into the mobile application ahead of its launch.
Konsowa thanked the Supreme Committee's members for their efforts and said further coordination meetings would be held to monitor progress, address challenges and ensure preparations were completed well in advance of the fair.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining the Cairo International Book Fair's international standing.
Photo Credit: Egyptian Cabinet&rsquo;s official page

Cairo International Book Fair 2027: New Plans Revealed Ahead Of 58th Edition

From ancient Egyptian artefacts displayed in China to ballet performances, exhibitions, cinema, language exchange and cultural festivals, Egypt and China have built extensive cultural ties reflecting the shared heritage of two of the world's oldest civilisations.
The relationship is set to receive further attention as Chinese President Xi Jinping prepares to visit Egypt in the coming days, according to the Egyptian Presidency.
Presidential spokesman Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said Xi will meet Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss ways of strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, as well as regional and international issues.
Beyond political and economic cooperation, culture, heritage and people-to-people exchanges have remained important elements of Egypt-China relations.
A new documentary book, &ldquo;Egyptian-Chinese Relations Over 70 Years&rdquo;, has also been issued by Egypt's State Information Service, documenting the development of ties since diplomatic relations were established on 30 May 1956. Published in Arabic and Chinese, the book covers major milestones in the political, economic, cultural, scientific and technological relationship between the two countries.
Egypt-China Cultural Year
One of the most significant milestones in cultural cooperation came in 2016, when Egypt and China designated the year as the Egyptian-Chinese Cultural Year.
The year was launched by El-Sisi and Xi during a joint celebration at Luxor Temple in January 2016, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The opening ceremony featured more than 200 performers from Egypt and China in a programme bringing together music, dance, ballet and other art forms.
The wider cultural year included around 200 events, including visual arts exhibitions and performances by Chinese and Cairo Opera Ballet artists.
Egypt continued to expand its cultural presence in China, taking part in the Shanghai Tourism Festival in September 2017, where it received the Most Popular Tourist Destination award.
In September 2020, Egypt also participated in the International Tourism and Culture Exhibition in Guangzhou, showcasing Egyptian cultural and heritage products alongside tourism programmes.
Ancient Egyptian Heritage On Display In China
Archaeology has become another important area of Egypt-China cultural cooperation, giving Chinese audiences opportunities to explore Egypt's ancient civilisation through major exhibitions.
In February 2024, Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities and the Shanghai Museum signed a cooperation protocol for a temporary archaeological exhibition in China.
&ldquo;On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt&rdquo; opened at the Shanghai Museum in July 2024, featuring 787 artefacts from different periods of ancient Egyptian civilisation. The exhibition included statues, jewellery, coffins and other objects illustrating aspects of kingship, daily life, religion, writing and beliefs about the afterlife.
The exhibition attracted significant interest in China, with tickets for its opening day selling out and hundreds of thousands of tickets sold before and shortly after its opening.
The exhibition was also described by Egyptian officials as an important platform for promoting cultural tourism and strengthening people-to-people understanding between the two countries.
Education And Language As Cultural Bridges
Education and language have also played an important role in Egypt-China cultural exchange.
The two countries have cooperated on introducing Chinese as an optional second foreign language in Egyptian schools, while educational initiatives have also encouraged exchanges between students and institutions. Around 24,000 Chinese students study Arabic in Egypt, while 16 Egyptian universities have established Chinese language departments or teach Chinese as part of their curricula.
Egypt is home to Confucius Institutes at Suez Canal University, Cairo University and Ain Shams University, supporting Chinese-language and cultural education.
Chinese-language programmes have also expanded at Egyptian universities, while Egyptian students have opportunities to study in China.
The Egyptian Luban Workshop has added another dimension to educational cooperation, providing technical and vocational training for young Egyptians.
Cinema, Visual Arts And Cultural Activities
The Chinese Cultural Center in Cairo has become another platform for cultural exchange, hosting activities covering cinema, traditional arts, visual arts and Chinese culture, as well as joint exhibitions and cultural events.
Such programmes give audiences in Egypt opportunities to learn more about Chinese culture while providing opportunities for artists from both countries to meet and collaborate.
Media And Cultural Exchange
Media cooperation has also contributed to greater cultural understanding.
Chinese media organisations have established a presence in Egypt, while cooperation between Egyptian and Chinese media institutions has expanded over the years.
Joint and bilateral media activities have helped increase coverage of each country's culture, heritage, arts and society, supporting wider people-to-people exchanges.
More recently, cultural and media cooperation has continued through joint projects. In 2025, Egypt and China held the &ldquo;Yangtze Meets the Nile&rdquo; cross-civilisation dialogue, which included cultural exhibitions, media cooperation and the premiere of a jointly produced documentary exploring connections between the two ancient civilisations.
A Cultural Relationship Built Over Decades
From the 2016 Egyptian-Chinese Cultural Year and joint artistic performances to archaeological exhibitions, language programmes, cinema and cultural events, Egypt-China relations extend beyond diplomacy and trade.
The two countries have increasingly used culture and heritage as a way to strengthen people-to-people ties and deepen mutual understanding.
As Xi prepares to return to Egypt a decade after his 2016 visit, the cultural relationship between the two countries remains an important part of their broader partnership.
Photo Credit: Spokesman for the Egyptian Presidency&rsquo;s official page

Egypt-China Cultural Relations: All You Need To Know About Arts And Heritage

Check out the most important Business, Tech, Startups, Gaming &amp; Entrepreneurship on Nile FM website

Geekdom

Transmissions with Boris is a weekly 60-minute journey into the world of techno and tech-house, featuring expertly crafted DJ sets and immersive soundscapes. Hosted by Boris, an acclaimed resident at top U.S. clubs like Pacha NY and Space Miami. The show showcases his signature sound alongside sets from outstanding guest DJs. With award-nominated talent and a global club feel, Transmissions delivers cutting-edge dance music every week.
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Transmissions 



The Sound of the Stork is a radio show and event concept by Stoned Stork Records, presented by Valerio Raponi.
The show features DJs from around the world, sharing exclusive mixtapes through an international network of radio partners across Europe, the USA, and South America.

The Sound of the Stork 



Music in the Air is an incredible travel into house, deep house and nu-disco sound selected by Villahangar' s Djs and the best house Djs.

MITA – Music In The Air



DAYS like NIGHTS is a devoted artistic platform founded by renowned Dutch DJ and producer Eelke Kleijn. Since its launch in 2017 as a record label, DAYS like NIGHTS has been dedicated to presenting innovative, organic music from both established artists and emerging talent around the world.
Known for its signature melodic sound and deep passion for music, the label has expanded into live experiences through its exclusive event series, held in major cities including New York, Amsterdam, Buenos Aires, Melbourne, and Toronto. Complementing these events is the label&rsquo;s globally recognized radio show, which continues to showcase affiliated artists, fresh talent, and close collaborators, offering listeners a curated journey through the best of modern electronic music.

Days Like Nights With Eelke Kleijn 

Voyager House Music DJ/Producer Tony Kay takes you on a tour of the planet with his weekly hour of the very finest new and upcoming dancefloor bangers from some of the most exciting Producers and Labels in the scene. With Tony Kay on the wheels of steel you can be sure of nothing but the very best rhythmic and grooving electronic music from his extensive armoury of music. Expect 3 deck live mixing and an organic flow that makes &lsquo;In The Mix&rsquo; a special weekly listen, wherever you may be. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In The Mix 



Let&rsquo;s Dance with Nancy brings the energy of the club straight into everyday life on Nile FM. Packed with high-energy beats, chart-toppers, classics, and fresh releases, Nancy keeps listeners motivated, uplifted, and connected to both the global and Cairo dance scenes. It&rsquo;s your daily dose of feel-good dance music proving that dancing doesn&rsquo;t wait for the night.
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Let’s Dance 




Gazlan will be taking listeners on a two-hour journey around different parts of Egypt and the world. Exploring what each place has to offer, from outdoor activities to watersports to simply relaxing and enjoying mother nature.

Gaz Guides

Electronic Music DJ and Producer, born and raised in Madrid, Spain. Creator of the pioneering Iberican Sound, founder of Stereo Productions and Redolent Music.&nbsp;Influenced by Portuguese and American underground sounds, Chus&rsquo;s musical evolution led him to craft house music infused with Soul, Disco, Latin, and World Music elements. he blends Organic House with Soul, Disco, Latin, and World Music influences. With a career spanning over 30 years, Chus is celebrated worldwide for his productions and remixes for artists like Madonna, Rihanna, and JLO, earning accolades such as DJ of the Year and Best House DJ..

Stereo Productions Podcast With DJ Chus 

Some say &ldquo;They don't make them like they used to", and we certainly agree. For one hour we spin out all your favorite classic hits from the 60s through the 90s that bring back those good oldies. Fridays and Saturdays from 7 to 11 am, it's the time for some serious nostalgia.

Flashback

Hisham takes you on a journey through today&rsquo;s crowded entertainment world, from cinema releases to top picks with honest reviews, curated recommendations, and the latest entertainment news, he helps you quickly decide what&rsquo;s worth watching next.&nbsp;

The Watchlist 



Join Zeinab &amp; Sami every weekday afternoon for &ldquo;The Big Drive&rdquo;! Your best companion on your journey home from work or school. The best music, the funniest games and lots more as they help you shake off your Cairo traffic blues! Zeinab and Samy will keep you entertained every day from 5 to 7 PM.
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The Big Drive

Your morning commute has never been this fun! An endlessly entertaining blend of games, news tidbits, and the latest hits, "The Morning Show" is the best place to kick-start your morning. What you listen to in the morning can really set the tone of your whole day, and Sally is here to make sure you are fresh and ready to conquer the day!

The Morning Show

Hip-Hop &amp; RnB &ldquo;FLAVAS!&rdquo; from the one and only DJ Feedo! With a master&rsquo;s degree in swag, Feedo will give your Friday the kick it needs to. Your weekly dose of all the newest hip-hop releases, the best old-school jams, East Coast/West Coast, Shack Town, the dirty South &amp; the Middle East just got a whole lot more flavorful with DJ Feedo!

Friday Night Flavas

Every Wednesday from 11 am to 1 pm, Nadine will be counting down the week&rsquo;s biggest 30 songs on the only official chart countdown in the nation &ldquo;Hit 30 Egypt&rdquo;
Find out whether your favorite song will make it to the #1 spot each week and how long it will stay there!

Hit 30 Egypt

Unlike any other show, Basmah will give you a variety of different segments throughout the weekdays for one hour! Basmah will keep you company with plenty of chat, fun, music &amp; games, along with all the latest entertainment news and much more!

Brain Busters

Every Monday and Wednesday from 3-4 pm, Feedo delivers the hottest chart-topping hit music, mixed back to back, nonstop! All the latest tracks for one hour straight, no interruptions! You know you&rsquo;re in good hands with Feedo and his stellar music taste!
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Mixalicious

AT40 gives you the inside scoop on everything &ldquo;Hollywood&rdquo; as well as counts down through the &ldquo;top 40&rdquo; songs on US charts! Hosted by the one and only Ryan Seacrest, this one is a can&rsquo;t-miss for our pop-culture-obsessed listeners who can&rsquo;t get enough of celebrity shenanigans!

American Top 40

DJ of the Week&nbsp;&ndash; Where Egypt&rsquo;s future DJs break through!
It&rsquo;s time to put the spotlight on Egypt&rsquo;s finest local talent with DJ of the Week&nbsp;on Nile FM! 60 minutes of handpicked sets, mixed by rising stars, spinning the sounds you should&nbsp;be hearing.
Think you&rsquo;ve got what it takes? Send us your best mix!&nbsp;
Submission Rules &amp; Guidelines for Guest DJ Sets:
&middot;&nbsp; Contains no explicit words
&middot; Mixed&nbsp;to professional standards
&middot;&nbsp;English language&nbsp;or instrumental music only
&middot; Duration between 55 minutes and 60 minutes
&middot;&nbsp;Exclusive unreleased sets only
&middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;MP3 or WAV format
We also need
&middot;Your&nbsp;DJ name, along with its pronunciation
&middot;&nbsp;Any social media links (Instagram, Facebook)
&middot; Any streaming platform links (SoundCloud, Mixcloud)
Email: djoftheweek@nrp.net.eg, and you could be next playing to Egypt&rsquo;s millions!

DJ of the Week

A curated playlist of the best tunes from the 90s &amp; the 2000s! Join veteran music man Simon Ramsden as he helps you bring your busy work week to a close and prepares you for the weekend&rsquo;s parties! Every Thursday, Simon&rsquo;s power hour aims to kickstart your weekend with an hour full of the best of all time and new tracks to make you feel good!

Feel Good Thursday

Step into a world of calm and culture with Nile Bazar with Safi. Featuring oriental-inspired music and thoughtfully curated lifestyle content, the show offers a serene backdrop for reflection, discovery, and an immersive taste of local flavor. Every Thursday from 11 AM to 1 PM, with a chance to catch it on Saturday later from 10 PM to 12 AM.
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Nile Bazaar

A him and her show where Mickey &amp; Nadine will talk about topics that interest us, that are trending, and that everyone can relate to. Two perspectives &amp; two preferences. Simply this show will be a place where people can listen to funny, interesting, and relatable&nbsp;topics, with his two cents and her takes. Music, movies, habits, career talk, pop culture, how-to, why, and why-not, did you know? and the list goes on and on which is what makes this show powerful. It&rsquo;s all about the now, the current, and the relevant with interesting talks about everything for everyone.

On Air Now

Non-Stop Music

News

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Entertainment

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Entertainment

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Entertainment

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Entertainment

Exclusive | Mohamed Taher On His Directorial Debut ‘32B: Mashakel Dakheliyya’

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Non-Stop Music

Egypt Hit 30

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