By: Yomna Walid&nbsp;
Her roles are rarely alike. Even in brief appearances, Egyptian actress Sarah Khalil has won over audiences, leaving many asking what comes next.
Khalil began her acting career in 2022 with Hekayat Group El Eaila. A year later, she drew attention in Safah El Giza with a short but memorable role, appearing without make-up and demonstrating strong on-screen presence. In Gawla Akhera (Final Round), she transformed again, this time with make-up and hair extensions. Her Ramadan drama debut came in 2025 with Zolem El Mastaba.
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From portraying a cancer patient in Catalogue to her widely praised performance as Hanan in La Tord Wala Tostabdal, Khalil has focused on portraying ordinary Egyptian women with striking authenticity. For the latter role, she avoided make-up entirely and gained 10 kilograms to realistically depict a pregnant woman.
NileFM spoke to the actress about her career, her approach to roles, and what drives her choices.
Before people knew you as an actress, what is a small detail about your childhood or life that still explains part of who you are? I didn&rsquo;t realize acting was my dream until the moment I stepped onto the stage. I discovered that I wasn&rsquo;t shy. I felt completely free. I didn&rsquo;t fully understand what that feeling was at first, but then I realized that acting carries a powerful sense of freedom.
<a href="https://ibb.co/nsRKZ3x4"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/FbndNsRc/1.png" alt="1" border="0" /></a> Has a scene ever stayed with you after filming wrapped? No. I always make sure that once the scene is done, it is truly finished. I don&rsquo;t take the character home with me, and I don&rsquo;t let it affect my personal life. Appearing without makeup and physically transforming yourself early in your career was seen as a bold choice. How did you approach that decision? It wasn&rsquo;t a bold decision. It was the right one. In &ldquo;Final Round,&rdquo; the character required constant makeup and extensions, but this role was different. She was pregnant and mostly at home, so the look had to be natural. Even in &ldquo;Safah El Giza,&rdquo; I appeared without makeup because authenticity is essential. Things have to be done properly.
<a href="https://ibb.co/Wp46q8TP"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/mFVG1ZxX/2.png" alt="2" border="0" /></a> What drew you most to the role of Hanan? The team behind it. Director Mariam Abu Ouf, the writers Dina Nagem and Samar Abdelnasser, and the incredible cast including Ahmed El Saadany, Dina El Sherbiny, Fadwa Abed, and Hassan Malek. Hanan herself is beautiful in her simplicity. She exists in every Egyptian home. Speech therapy was presented as part of everyday life rather than an exceptional case. Did that change how you view storytelling around social issues? For families who live with these realities, this is their daily life. Presenting such issues naturally, without complications, helps them reach audiences faster. When problems are portrayed as part of ordinary life, people connect with them more easily. I truly hope more productions take this approach.
<a href="https://ibb.co/TxtqJMkk"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/DHQgmftt/3.png" alt="3" border="0" /></a> Did you add anything to Hanan that wasn&rsquo;t originally on the page? It is hard to pinpoint because some details emerge spontaneously during filming. For example, the wedding ring storyline, when it was taken to be sold, highlighted just how interconnected the family was. Everyone supports one another without hesitation. Many viewers felt Hanan&rsquo;s relationship with her siblings was incredibly real. How did you build that authenticity without exaggeration? This dynamic is part of Egyptian culture. There is a deep belief in family responsibility. When you have a brother like Taha, who does everything for his sisters, loving him comes naturally. That kind of relationship already exists in our society. Were you expecting such a strong reaction to the role? What was the most meaningful comment you received? I wasn&rsquo;t expecting it. As beautiful as the response was, it was also a little frightening, because when people see you succeed, they expect even more. It makes me more careful with my choices. One message that meant a lot came from the wonderful actress Reham Abdel Ghafour. She reached out with incredibly kind words. Having an artist of her stature take the time to find and message me was truly special. Most of your scenes were with Ahmed El Saadany, and the sibling bond felt very genuine. How did you avoid slipping into melodrama? The writing was excellent, which made it easier to deliver that sense of truth. Chemistry between actors is also very important, and thankfully, it was there. The relationship felt believable. The series tackled several important issues. Which one impacted you the most? It is difficult to choose just one. The health-related topics, such as kidney failure, speech, and hearing challenges, were especially important. They were presented smoothly and thoughtfully.
<a href="https://ibb.co/gbPCNx55"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/Q7CGL422/4.png" alt="4" border="0" /></a> From &ldquo;Safah El Giza&rdquo; to &ldquo;Catalogue,&rdquo; your roles vary in size but leave a strong impact. What makes you feel a role is right for you? I try not to label myself or chase roles that resemble me. On the contrary, I prefer moving away from anything too similar to who I am, because doing something different is always more challenging.
If you could change one thing about your journey so far, what would it be? I wouldn&rsquo;t change anything. If someone like Hanan saw herself in the series, what would you want her to take from it? I would want her to know that she is seen. Many women like Hanan feel invisible or believe their role in others&rsquo; lives is not significant. To me, Hanan represents the true meaning of home and belonging. Do you want the next phase of your career to build on what you&rsquo;ve done, or completely break away from it? Both. It should be an extension of what came before, but with characters that are not repetitions. Every actor wants diversity. Today I can play Hanan, tomorrow someone entirely different. Variety is essential and creatively very exciting.
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Photo Credit: Sarah Khalil's official page&nbsp;
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Exclusive | ‘What Matters is The Story, not How I Look on Screen,’ Sarah Khalil On Her Success in “La Tord Wala Tostabdal”

Egypt&rsquo;s Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation has announced the opening of registration for exhibitors wishing to take part in the 93rd Spring Flowers Exhibition, due to be held at the Egyptian Agricultural Museum in Dokki at the end of March 2026.
The annual event will take place under the patronage of the Minister of Agriculture, Alaa Farouk.
Registration from 5 February
In a statement, the ministry said applications will be accepted from Thursday, 5 February, from companies and institutions working in ornamental flowers, shade plants, cut flowers, cactus production, landscaping, and sports field design. Suppliers of agricultural inputs, garden equipment and modern irrigation systems are also eligible to apply.
Improved Facilities and Logistics
Mr Farouk said this year&rsquo;s exhibition would benefit from improved organisation and upgraded facilities at the Agricultural Museum, following development works carried out over the past year.
He added that full logistical support would be provided to exhibitors, with the aim of presenting the event in a way that reflects Egypt&rsquo;s long-standing history in the sector and accommodates the expected large numbers of visitors.
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Boost for Exports and Ornamental Plants
According to the minister, the exhibition aims to support Egypt&rsquo;s ornamental plants industry and create new export opportunities, while offering visitors access to the latest trends, competitive prices and special offers.
Return to Spring Festival Timing
The 2026 edition marks a return to the exhibition&rsquo;s traditional spring schedule, after several years of date changes linked to public holidays and the month of Ramadan.
Mr Farouk said the move restores a long-established tradition closely associated with spring celebrations in Egypt.
Economic Platform for Investors
The exhibition has grown into what the ministry described as an integrated economic platform, supporting nurseries and ornamental plant producers, and creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs and investors. It also serves as a link between local producers and international markets.
How to Apply
Companies and institutions wishing to participate must visit the exhibition administration office at the Agricultural Museum in Dokki to complete registration forms and review technical and organisational requirements.
Regional Significance
The Spring Flowers Exhibition is regarded as the largest and oldest event of its kind in the Arab region, bringing together producers, exhibitors and specialists in ornamental plants and landscaping.
Photo Credit: Freepik&nbsp;

Registration Opens for Egypt’s 93rd Spring Flowers Exhibition

Bad Bunny has become the first artist to win Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards with a Spanish-language record, marking a historic moment for Latin music.
The Puerto Rican rapper and global star received the top prize at the 2026 Grammy Awards for Deb&iacute; Tirar M&aacute;s Fotos. The award was presented by singer Harry Styles.
Visibly emotional, Bad Bunny delivered his acceptance speech in both English and Spanish, thanking his fans, collaborators and the Recording Academy. He spoke about themes of unity, resilience and love, and dedicated the award to immigrants and those who have left their home countries in pursuit of their dreams.
He also paid tribute to his home island, Puerto Rico, highlighting its cultural impact and resilience despite its size.
Already a multiple Grammy winner, Bad Bunny also claimed Best M&uacute;sica Urbana Album and Best Global Music Performance on the night, underlining his continued influence on the global music scene.
The artist is set to reach another major milestone later this week when he headlines the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show on 8 February at Levi&rsquo;s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Photo Credit: Grammys' official page&nbsp;

Bad Bunny Makes Grammy History With First Spanish-language Album of The Year

Some of the biggest names in music were honoured at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, with Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish and Kendrick Lamar emerging as leading winners of the night.
The ceremony opened with a high-energy performance by Bruno Mars and Ros&eacute;, who performed their collaboration "APT."
Several artists received their first Grammy awards, including Olivia Dean, who won &lsquo;Best New Artist&rsquo;.
Bad Bunny made history by winning &lsquo;Album of the Year&rsquo; for Deb&iacute; Tirar M&aacute;s Fotos, becoming the first artist to take the top prize with a Spanish-language album.
Lady Gaga won &lsquo;Best Dance-Pop Recording&rsquo; for "Abracadabra,' one of the ceremony&rsquo;s standout moments, while Sabrina Carpenter continued her recent success with Manchild, following last year&rsquo;s viral hits "Espresso" and "Please Please Please."
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Album of the year Bad Bunny &ndash; Deb&iacute; Tirar M&aacute;s Fotos &ndash; WINNER Justin Bieber &ndash; Swag Sabrina Carpenter &ndash; Man&rsquo;s Best Friend Clipse &ndash; Let Got Sort Em Out Lady Gaga &ndash; Mayhem Kendrick Lamar &ndash; GNX Leon Thomas &ndash; Mutt Tyler, the Creator &ndash; Chromakopia Record of the year Bad Bunny &ndash; DtMF Sabrina Carpenter &ndash; Manchild Doechii &ndash; Anxiety Billie Eilish &ndash; Wildflower Lady Gaga &ndash; Abracadabra Kendrick Lamar with SZA &ndash; Luther &ndash; WINNER Chappell Roan &ndash; The Subway Ros&eacute; &amp; Bruno Mars &ndash; APT. Song of the year Lady Gaga &ndash; Abracadabra Doechii &ndash; Anxiety Ros&eacute; &amp; Bruno Mars &ndash; APT. Bad Bunny &ndash; DtMF Huntr/x &ndash; Golden Kendrick Lamar with SZA &ndash; Luther Sabrina Carpenter &ndash; Manchild Billie Eilish &ndash; Wildflower &ndash; WINNER
<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/n2UnPnOYHNM" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Best pop solo performance Justin Bieber &ndash; Daisies Sabrina Carpenter &ndash; Manchild Lady Gaga &ndash; Disease Chappell Roan &ndash; The Subway Lola Young &ndash; Messy &ndash; WINNER Best pop vocal album Justin Bieber &ndash; Swag Sabrina Carpenter &ndash; Man&rsquo;s Best Friend Miley Cyrus &ndash; Something Beautiful Lady Gaga &ndash; Mayhem &ndash; WINNER Teddy Swims &ndash; I&rsquo;ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) Best contemporary country album Kelsea Ballerini &ndash; Patterns Tyler Childers &ndash; Snipe Hunter Eric Church &ndash; Evangeline v the Machine Jelly Roll &ndash; Beautifully Broken &ndash; WINNER Miranda Lambert &ndash; Postcards from Texas Best m&uacute;sica urbana album Bad Bunny &ndash; Deb&iacute; Tirar M&aacute;s Fotos &ndash; WINNER Feid &ndash; Ferxxo Vol X: Sagrado J Balvin &ndash; Mixteip Nicki Nicole &ndash; Naiki Trueno &ndash; EUB Deluxe Yandel &ndash; Sinf&oacute;nico (En Vivo)
<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hhvdOTvdpjs" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Best new artist Olivia Dean &ndash; WINNER Katseye The Marias Addison Rae Sombr Leon Thomas Alex Warren Lola Young
<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/nvl_tV_gf4U" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Best rap album Clipse &ndash; Let God Sort Em Out Glorilla &ndash; Glorious JID &ndash; God Does Like Ugly Kendrick Lamar &ndash; GNX &ndash; WINNER Tyler, the Creator &ndash; Chromakopia Best dance-pop recording Selena Gomez &amp; Benny Blanco &ndash; Bluest Flame Lady Gaga &ndash; Abracadabra &ndash; WINNER Zara Larsson &ndash; Midnight Sun Tate McRae &ndash; Just Keep Watching PinkPantheress &ndash; Illegal Best rap performance Cardi B &ndash; Outside Clipse &ndash; Chains &amp; Whips (ft Kendrick Lamar &amp; Pharrell Williams) &ndash; WINNER Doechii &ndash; Anxiety Kendrick Lamar &ndash; TV Off (ft Lefty Gunplay) Tyler, the Creator &ndash; Darling, I (ft Teezo Touchdown)
<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ye9f161umeM" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Best country solo performance Tyler Childers &ndash; Nose on the Grindstone Shaboozey &ndash; Good News Chris Stapleton &ndash; Bad As I Used to Be &ndash; WINNER Zach Top &ndash; I Never Lie Lainey Wilson &ndash; Somewhere Over Laredo Best rap song Doechii &ndash; Anxiety Clipse, Pusha T &amp; Malice ft John Legend &amp; Voices of Fire &ndash; The Birds Don&rsquo;t Sing Tyler, the Creator ft GloRilla, Sexyy Red &amp; Lil Wayne &ndash; Sticky GloRilla &ndash; TGIF Kendrick Lamar ft Lefty Gunplay &ndash; TV Off &ndash; WINNER Best pop duo/group performance Cynthia Erivo &amp; Ariana Grande &ndash; Defying Gravity &ndash; WINNER Huntr/x &ndash; Golden Katseye &ndash; Gabriela Ros&eacute; &amp; Bruno Mars &ndash; APT. SZA Featuring Kendrick Lamar &ndash; 30 for 30 Best R&amp;B album Givēon &ndash; Beloved Coco Jones &ndash; Why Not More? Ledisi &ndash; The Crown Teyana Taylor &ndash; Escape Room Leon Thomas &ndash; Mutt &ndash; WINNER Best rock album Deftones &ndash; Private Music Haim &ndash; I Quit Linkin Park &ndash; From Zero Turnstile &ndash; Never Enough &ndash; WINNER Yungblud &ndash; Idols Best dance/electronic album FKA twigs &ndash; Eusexua &ndash; WINNER Fred Again &ndash; Ten Days PinkPantheress &ndash; Fancy That R&uuml;f&uuml;s Du Sol &ndash; Inhale/Exhale Skrillex &ndash; F U Skrillex You Think Ur Andy Warhol But Ur Not!! &lt;3 Best rock performance Amyl and the Sniffers &ndash; U Should Not Be Doing That Linkin Park &ndash; The Emptiness Machine Turnstile &ndash; Never Enough Hayley Williams &ndash; Mirtazapine Yungblud &ndash; Changes (Live from Villa Park, Back to the Beginning) &ndash; WINNER Best metal performance Dream Theater &ndash; Night Terror Ghost &ndash; Lachryma Sleep Token &ndash; Emergence Spiritbox &ndash; Soft Spine Turnstile &ndash; Birds &ndash; WINNER Best R&amp;B performance Justin Bieber &ndash; Yukon Chris Brown &ndash; It Depends (ft Bryson Tiller) Kehlani &ndash; Folded &ndash; WINNER Leon Thomas &ndash; Mutt Summer Walker &ndash; Heart of a Woman Best traditional R&amp;B performance Durand Bernarr &ndash; Here We Are Lalah Hathaway &ndash; Uptown Ledisi &ndash; Love You Too SZA &ndash; Crybaby Leon Thomas &ndash; Vibes Don&rsquo;t Lie &ndash; WINNER Best R&amp;B song Kehlani &ndash; Folded &ndash; WINNER Summer Walker &ndash; Heart of a Woman Chris Brown ft Bryson Tiller &ndash; It Depends Durand Bernarr &ndash; Overqualified Leon Thomas &ndash; Yes It Is Best alternative music album Bon Iver &ndash; Sable, Fable The Cure &ndash; Songs of a Lost World &ndash; WINNER Tyler, the Creator &ndash; Don&rsquo;t Tap the Glass Wet Leg &ndash; Moisturizer Hayley Williams &ndash; Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party Best traditional country album Charley Crockett &ndash; Dollar a Day Lukas Nelson &ndash; American Romance Willie Nelson &ndash; Oh What a Beautiful World Margo Price &ndash; Hard Headed Woman Zach Top &ndash; Ain&rsquo;t In It for My Health &ndash; WINNER Best global music performance Bad Bunny &ndash; EoO &ndash; WINNER Ciro Hurtado &ndash; Cantando en el Camino Ang&eacute;lique Kidjo &ndash; Jerusalema Yeisy Rojas &ndash; Inmigrante Y Que? Shakti &ndash; Shrini&rsquo;s Dream (live) Anoushka Shankar &ndash; Daybreak (ft Alam Khan &amp; Sarathy Korwar) Best rock song Nine Inch Nails &ndash; As Alive as You Need Me to Be &ndash; WINNER Sleep Token &ndash; Caramel Hayley Williams &ndash; Glu Turnstile &ndash; Never Enough Yungblud &ndash; Zombie Best country song Tyler Childers &ndash; Bitin&rsquo; List &ndash; WINNER Shaboozey &ndash; Good News Zach Top &ndash; I Never Lie Lainey Wilson &ndash; Somewhere Over Laredo Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton &ndash; A Song to Sing Best alternative music performance Bon Iver &ndash; Everything is Peaceful Love The Cure &ndash; Alone &ndash; WINNER Turnstile &ndash; Seein&rsquo; Stars Wet Leg &ndash; Mangetout Hayley Williams &ndash; Parachute Best compilation soundtrack for visual media A Complete Unknown F1 The Album Kpop Demon Hunters Sinners &ndash; WINNER Wicked Best music video Sabrina Carpenter &ndash; Manchild Clipse &ndash; So Be It Doechii &ndash; Anxiety &ndash; WINNER OK Go &ndash; Love Sade &ndash; Young Lion Best song written for visual media Nine Inch Nails &ndash; As Alive as You Need Me to Be (From Tron: Ares) Huntr/x &ndash; Golden (from KPop: Demon Hunters) &ndash; WINNER Miles Caton &ndash; I Lied to You (From Sinners) Elton John and Brandi Carlile &ndash; Never Too Late (From Elton John: Never Too Late) Jayme Lawson &ndash; Pale, Pale Moon (From Sinners) Rod Wave &ndash; Sinners (From Sinners) Best Latin pop album Rauw Alejandro &ndash; Cosa Nuestra Andr&eacute;s Cepeda &ndash; Bogot&aacute; (Deluxe) Karol G &ndash; Tropicoqueta Natalia Lafourcade &ndash; Cancionera Alejandro Sanz &ndash; &iquest;Y ahora qu&eacute;? Best folk album Rhiannon Giddens &amp; Justin Robinson &ndash; What Did the Blackbird Say to the Crow Patty Griffin &ndash; Crown of Roses I&rsquo;m With Her &ndash; Wild and Clear and Blue &ndash; WINNER Jason Isbell &ndash; Foxes in the Snow Jesse Welles &ndash; Under the Powerlines (April 24 &ndash; September 24) Best dance/electronic recording Disclosure &amp; Anderson Paak &ndash; No Cap Fred again, Skepta &amp; PlaqueBoyMax &ndash; Victory Lap Kaytranada &ndash; Space Invader Skrillex &ndash; Voltage Tame Impala &ndash; End of Summer &ndash; WINNER Best African music Performance Burna Boy &ndash; Love Davido ft Omah Lay &ndash; With You Eddy Kenzo &amp; Mehran Matin &ndash; Hope &amp; Love Ayra Starr feat. Wizkid &ndash; Gimme Dat Tyla &ndash; PUSH 2 START &ndash; WINNER Best jazz performance Lakecia Benjamin &ndash; Noble Rise (ft Immanuel Wilkins &amp; Mark Whitfield) Chick Corea, Christian McBride &amp; Brian Blade &ndash; Windows (live) &ndash; WINNER Samara Joy &ndash; Peace Of Mind / Dreams Come True Michael Mayo &ndash; Four Nicole Zuraitis, Dan Pugach, Tom Scott, Idan Morim, Keyon Harrold &amp; Rachel Eckroth &ndash; All Stars Lead to You (live) Best orchestral performance Michael Repper, conductor (National Philharmonic) &ndash; Coleridge-Taylor: Toussaint L&rsquo;Ouverture; Ballade Op 4; Suites From 24 Negro Melodies Andris Nelsons, conductor (Boston Symphony Orchestra) &ndash; Messiaen: Turangal&icirc;la-Symphonie &ndash; WINNER Gustavo Dudamel, conductor (Sim&oacute;n Bol&iacute;var Symphony Orchestra Of Venezuela) &ndash; Ravel: Bol&eacute;ro, M 81 Yannick N&eacute;zet-S&eacute;guin, conductor (The Philadelphia Orchestra) &ndash; Still &amp; Bonds Esa-Pekka Salonen, conductor (San Francisco Symphony) &ndash; Stravinsky: Symphony in Three Movements Best jazz performance Lakecia Benjamin &ndash; Noble Rise (ft Immanuel Wilkins &amp; Mark Whitfield) Chick Corea, Christian McBride &amp; Brian Blade &ndash; Windows (live) &ndash; WINNER Samara Joy &ndash; Peace Of Mind / Dreams Come True Michael Mayo &ndash; Four Nicole Zuraitis, Dan Pugach, Tom Scott, Idan Morim, Keyon Harrold &amp; Rachel Eckroth &ndash; All Stars Lead to You (live) Best comedy album Bill Burr &ndash; Drop Dead Years by Bill Burr Sarah Silverman &ndash; PostMortem by Sarah Silverman Ali Wong &ndash; Single Lady by Ali Wong Jamie Foxx &ndash; What Had Happened Was &hellip; by Jamie Foxx Nate Bargatze &ndash; Your Friend, Nate Bargatze &ndash; WINNER Best Melodic Rap Performance Fridayy ft Meek Mill &ndash; Proud Of Me JID ft Ty Dolla $ign &amp; 6Lack &ndash; Wholeheartedly Kendrick Lamar with SZA &ndash; luther &ndash; WINNER Terrace Martin &amp; Kenyon Dixon Featuring Rapsody &ndash; WeMaj PARTYNEXTDOOR &amp; Drake &ndash; SOMEBODY LOVES ME Producer of the year Dan Auerbach Cirkut &ndash; WINNER Dijon Blake Mills Sounwave Songwriter of the year Amy Allen &ndash; WINNER Edgar Barrera Jessie Jo Dillon Tobias Jesso Jr Laura Veltz
Photo Credit: Grammys' official page&nbsp;
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Grammy Awards 2026: Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish and Kendrick Lamar Among Top Winners

By: Yomna Walid
For more than five decades, Ibrahim Al-Ariss has been one of the most influential voices in Arab film criticism. Born in Lebanon and closely connected to Egyptian cinema, the renowned critic, cultural history researcher, translator and journalist has translated more than 40 books and written some of the most significant studies on Arab and world cinema.
Al-Ariss studied film directing in Rome before moving to London to study screenwriting and film criticism. Among his most notable books are A Journey in Arab Cinema and Martin Scorsese: A Cinematic Biography. His deep attachment to Egyptian cinema also led him to write extensively about the legendary director &lsquo;Youssef Chahine: The Child&rsquo;s Gaze and the Rebel&rsquo;s Grip&rsquo;.
In 2017, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural Gouna Film Festival. His other works include Gharam fi Istanbul and Sin Path. In 2019, the Arab Cinema Center honoured him with the &lsquo;Critical Achievement Award&rsquo; in recognition of his influential career in film criticism across the Arab world.
NileFM speaks to Ibrahim Al-Ariss about his journey in film criticism, his relationship with Egyptian cinema, his memories of Youssef Chahine, his favourite contemporary stars and behind-the-scenes stories from some of Arab cinema&rsquo;s most celebrated films.
Your journey in film criticism spans more than 50 years. Looking back, which phase most shaped you as a critic?
I believe my path was shaped by two major phases. The first was my time in Rome, where I studied film directing but devoted most of my energy to art-house and experimental cinema, particularly at the Farnese Cinema. There, I watched, almost daily, films of the French New Wave and Italian Neorealism.
The second phase was in London, where I studied criticism and screenwriting at the British Film Institute, especially through the Free University and the lectures of John Blize. We also held regular evening gatherings to watch films, often by a single director or screenwriter, and once focusing entirely on the actor Dirk Bogarde. These sessions would begin at 8:00pm and last until 6:00am, followed by long discussions. This period was my true formative stage, both as a critic and as a cinema practitioner.
<a href="https://ibb.co/6RmzKFXB"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/pvxcHdhy/1.png" alt="1" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Has Arab film criticism played a real role in supporting Arab cinema globally, or has it remained in directors&rsquo; shadows?
Over the past 25 years, Arab film criticism, particularly in Egypt, played a major role in supporting serious Arab cinema, especially filmmakers who understood how to engage with critics. Among them were Youssef Chahine, Mohamed Khan, Radwan El-Kashef, Daoud Abdel Sayed, Atef El-Tayeb, Borhane Alaoui&eacute;, and Tawfiq Saleh.
These filmmakers read criticism carefully and engaged with it seriously. Some major actors even sought our opinions, as criticism could directly influence careers. That is no longer the case today. Most critics of my generation have passed away, as have many of those directors. Today, critics have largely become festival employees, institutional consultants, or cinema traders. A close friend once told me a Gulf festival had appointed him its &ldquo;official critic.&rdquo;
You are also a researcher, translator, and writer. How has this diversity shaped your approach to film?
I place everything I know and practise at the heart of what I write. For me, there is no separation between criticism and creativity, nor between creativity and research. I often say that criticism is creativity built upon creativity.
A true critic does not aim to correct the artist or change the world, but to express themselves, perhaps creating a form of aesthetic contagion in the reader.
<a href="https://ibb.co/b5m8c9Y8"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/XxLvcR6v/2.png" alt="2" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
As we mark the centenary of Youssef Chahine, why do his films still feel alive to each generation?
That is the essence of true creativity: to be born of its time yet remain alive forever. At its core is the relationship between the self and the audience across generations.
That is why I titled one of my books The Language of the Self and the Eternal Modern. We still read Plato and One Thousand and One Nights, watch Chaplin, John Ford and Hitchcock, and listen to Bach, Fairuz and Mozart, just as generations before us did, and as future generations will continue to do.
I often smile ironically when people speak of supposed conflicts surrounding Umm Kulthum, Salah Abu Seif or Abdel Halim Hafez or even Ella Fitzgerald.
You once described Chahine as the pioneer of autobiographical cinema in the Arab world. What does that mean?
Cinema is both an industrial and commercial art, which long imposed a rule: that personal films required large budgets. Chahine was among the first to break that rule.
He did so most clearly in his autobiographical Alexandria quartet: Alexandria&hellip; Why? (1979), An Egyptian Story (1982), Alexandria Again and Forever (1989) and Alexandria&ndash;New York (2004). In truth, he practised this approach, sometimes implicitly, across much of his work.
His success, both artistically and commercially, encouraged many Arab filmmakers to follow. Without Chahine&rsquo;s courage in exposing his personal history on screen, we might not have seen the later autobiographical films of Yousry Nasrallah, Khaled El-Hagar, Mohammad Malas, Nouri Bouzid or F&eacute;rid Boughedir.
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While writing The Child&rsquo;s Gaze and the Rebel&rsquo;s Grip, did you discover anything new about Chahine?
If I were to rewrite the book today, I would add many things; not because it is lacking, but because time reshapes reception.
I read The Brothers Karamazov at 15, again at 30, and many times since. Each reading revealed something new, and my sympathies shifted between characters. This is what reception theory is about.
Which Chahine film holds the most personal meaning for you?
On a human level, "Bayya&lsquo; El-Khawatem" (The Ring Seller) is the most important, as it marked my first meeting with Chahine and my work as his assistant on set between 1964 and 1965.
The film I love most is "Cairo Station," which I consider one of the most important films in Arab cinema history. Abdel Hai Adeeb, its screenwriter, later became my mentor. Working with him prepared me to study screenwriting at the BFI.
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What has Arab cinema lost since the passing of figures such as Chahine and Salah Abu Seif?
Their films remain present and continue to reach audiences worldwide. Each of these directors created cinematic schools and languages that later generations continue to develop.
What we lost, I lost, were friends and exceptional interlocutors.
Is there a memory of Chahine that best reflects his humanity?
There is one memory I will never forget, or rather, two.
The first was when Egypt&rsquo;s Ministry of Culture wanted to honor him in the final years of his life. The distinguished minister Farouk Hosny and the late critic and official Ali Abu Shadi met with Chahine and told him that the ministry intended to publish a book about him. They presented him with a list of around ten Egyptian critics and asked him to choose one.
He looked at the list and said to the minister: &ldquo;They are all my friends and beloved colleagues, and all are great critics, but I want Ibrahim Al-Ariss to write the book.&rdquo;
Ali Abu Shadi immediately left the minister&rsquo;s office to call me in Paris and ask if I agreed. Of course, I did. Despite the fact that Abu Shadi&rsquo;s own name was on the list, he fully supported the decision. Although Chahine later declined the honor and the project was frozen at his request, after his passing, publisher Ibrahim El-Moallem of Dar El Shorouk contacted me to publish the book. That is how The Child&rsquo;s Gaze and the Rebel&rsquo;s Grip was born.
The second moment took place during the night shooting of a scene from &ldquo;Al-Massir&rdquo; (Destiny) at Galal Studio, at a time when I was in a deep disagreement with Chahine. I met actress Laila Elwi, who was extremely happy working with him and invited me to attend the shoot. I told her about my disagreement with Chahine and that my presence might bother him. She convinced me otherwise.
During a break, Laila and I were talking when someone suddenly stood between us, leaning on our shoulders and handing me a sandwich. It was Youssef Chahine himself. Laila laughed and said, &ldquo;I thought you were fighting.&rdquo; He replied jokingly, &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been fighting and reconciling for thirty years, and both of us explode like bombs.&rdquo;
Throughout your career, which Egyptian actors or actresses did you feel closest to, on a human or artistic level, and why?
First and foremost is my lifelong friend Mahmoud Hemeida, for whom I once wished to write a screenplay about Al-Mutanabbi, though circumstances prevented it.
There is also Laila Elwi, whose creativity, humility, culture, and intellectual curiosity restored my faith in great artists and reminded me that they possess emotional and human particularities that compel us to understand them, even their impulses.
Among other dear friends in cinema are Lebleba, the great cinema lover, Yousra, Yousra El Lozy, Nour El-Sherif, with whom I shared deep cultural ties, as well as Khaled El-Nabawy, the late Mohammad Bakri of Palestine, Nada Abou Farhat from Lebanon, and more recently Boshra and the remarkable Moroccan actress Nisrin Erradi, who restored the presence of the true movie star in Morocco despite her young age, something that had somewhat faded since the unjustified disappearance of the wonderful Mouna Fettou.
<a href="https://ibb.co/F4QYrfZJ"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/5hQj0zpv/5.png" alt="5" border="0" /></a> Finally, what are your upcoming projects? Are you currently working on a new book or project that we will see soon?
My current projects revolve around distancing myself more and more from what is today, somewhat humorously, called film criticism, and focusing instead on my other interests, such as philosophy, political thought, literary criticism, and encyclopedic projects.
Recently, two of my books were published in Saudi Arabia: &ldquo;Cinema and the Desert &ldquo;and &ldquo;Cinema and Its Sisters.&rdquo; I also released The Encyclopedia of the Global Novel in two volumes. In the coming weeks, in Cairo will publish a complete enlightenment library by me, beginning with books on Garc&iacute;a M&aacute;rquez, Naguib Mahfouz, Ibn Khaldun, Bergman, Plato, Picasso, Dostoevsky, and Shakespeare, among others.
Photo Credit: Hanna Ward via Luxor Africa Film Festival&rsquo;s official website
&nbsp;

Exclusive | Ibrahim Al-Ariss: Five Decades Shaping Arab Film Criticism, and Reflections on Youssef Chahine

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
A great DJ knows how to read the crowd and turn energy into music. When passion, taste, and timing align, DJing becomes more than a skill. This week on NileFM, that story belongs to Munchy. Driven by passion and sharpened by experience, Munchy knows how to extract energy from the crowd and turn it into a musical moment listener won&rsquo;t forget. Tune in tonight at 10:00 PM on NileFM for a special episode that proves just how powerful music can be when it truly connects. NileFM went behind the decks with DJ of the Week, Munchy, to learn more about his journey, inspirations, and what he has in store for tonight&rsquo;s show. Tell us, who is Munchy? Where are you from, and how did your journey into DJing begin? I&rsquo;m Munchy, coming from Cairo. We had our event company for sound and light equipment in cairo where everything starts from my childhood. At what point did you realise DJing was more than a hobby and something you wanted to pursue professionally? I realized that DJing more than hope, the atmosphere and energy of the crowd and the connection that the DJ builds on the dance floor are unforgettable.
<a href="https://ibb.co/Xr5LGPt3"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/jPwfjYDW/1.png" alt="1" border="0" /></a> Was there a defining moment that helped shape your sound and establish your identity as a DJ? It's the moment where personal taste and crowd energy align, proving that their unique musical identity works. This could happen at a small, low-stakes gig where they had the freedom to experiment, often early in their career. That experience teaches them that their most authentic selector instinct is their greatest asset. What were the most significant challenges you faced in the early stages of your career, and how did you navigate them? Proving Competence: Overcoming self-doubt and earning trust in a professional setting. I navigated this by focusing on diligent preparation, asking thoughtful questions, and delivering consistent, high-quality work on small tasks first to build credibility. As NileFM&rsquo;s DJ of the Week, what can listeners expect from you on air? Are there any surprises planned? Listeners can expect a vibrant mix full of musical surprises and great energy, as I focus on bringing fresh excitement to the decks. Is there a particular set or performance that holds special meaning for you? What makes it so memorable? Every gig is unforgettable, with more challenges and more experience. Take us behind the scenes. How do you prepare before going live on air or stepping behind the decks? Music Curation: Prep a versatile opening crate and key transition tracks, but leave room to adapt. 2. Setup &amp; Soundcheck: Test mixer, decks, and headphones; set initial levels by listening to the room .3. Vibe Assessment: Quickly read the crowd's energy as they enter to gauge the starting point.
<a href="https://ibb.co/TDRTZBqw"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/FkJW9bqh/2.png" alt="2" border="0" /></a> Looking back, what has been the most unforgettable or defining moment of your DJ career so far? The first time I played a sunrise set at an open-air festival. The energy shifted from a high-intensity peak to a quiet, collective, almost spiritual moment as the sun came up, realizing the decks weren't just a tool for music, but for i shaping a shared human experience. When creative momentum slows, where do you typically turn for inspiration? I got my inspiration back by visiting some club to have fun Finally, what advice would you offer to aspiring DJs who are just beginning their journey? Master the Core Technical Skills First &middot; Learn Beat Matching by Ear: This is the fundamental skill of matching the tempo and beats of two tracks. Practice with your software's screen covered to develop your ears, as this will make you versatile and prepared for any equipment &middot; Understand Song Structure: Tracks are built in 8 or 16.
<a href="https://ibb.co/HLmhphTW"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/zWK6H6Vy/3.png" alt="3" border="0" /></a> Photo Credit: Munchy&rsquo;s official page

Exclusive | Meet Munchy: NileFM’s DJ of The Week on Reading The Crowd and Shaping The Night

By: Yomna Walid&nbsp;
Imagine revisiting a novel you grew up with but seeing it through an entirely different lens. That is exactly what comic artist, graphic novelist, and director Migo has set out to do through his ambitious project of transforming the works of Nobel Prize-winning author Naguib Mahfouz into comic books.
Migo began the journey with "Children of the Alley," a project he has been developing for nearly four years, and which has yet to be published. Driven by a shared vision with screenwriter Mohamed Ismail Amin, he went on to adapt "The Thief and the Dogs" and "Miramar" into graphic novels. Both titles are now available in France, marking a significant international milestone.
This year, Migo is also taking part in the Cairo International Book Fair with a new adaptation, "The Three Fat Men" by Russian novelist Yuri Olesha, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. The comic-style adaptation offers a fresh visual experience aimed at attracting younger readers and book fair visitors alike.
Nile FM spoke to Migo about his creative journey and his mission to revive classic literature through comics.
What was the idea behind choosing the works of Naguib Mahfouz to adapt into comics?
Adapting literature into graphic stories or graphic novels is a globally recognised practice. Literary works naturally contain imagery, conflict and drama that can be translated visually. With the growing popularity of comics as a contemporary visual language that speaks to different ages and generations, they have become a suitable medium for presenting literary works.
The novels of Naguib Mahfouz are especially rich in detail, characters, and human conflict. I was particularly influenced by Children of the Alley, which became the starting point of the project.
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Which books have you worked on so far, and why did you choose them?
"The Thief and the Dogs" and "Miramar." Both have been translated into English and French, which is very important to me, as it allows the project to reach a global audience. Naguib Mahfouz is, at his core, a global literary figure.
What challenges did you face while transforming Mahfouz&rsquo;s novels into a visual comic format?
The first work I started with was "Children of the Alley," which has not yet been published. It took nearly four years to complete, during which every detail was carefully studied, from character development to building the visual world.
The same applied to 'The Thief and the Dogs," which became the project&rsquo;s first official release. However, it differed in that it was developed as a collective studio project.
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Can you tell us about the behind-the-scenes process of preparing the first published work?
In "The Thief and the Dogs," I collaborated with a group of artists, as well as screenwriter Mohamed Ismail Amin. The process was divided into stages, beginning with writing the screenplay, followed by translating it visually through character design, page layouts and overall artistic direction.&nbsp;
How was the collaboration between you and Mohamed Ismail Amin during the adaptations?
We had worked together previously on projects such as "Yagog and Magog," which made it easier for us to agree on the overall spirit of the work, particularly in terms of suspense, movement, symbolism, and human meaning.&nbsp;
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What is the difference between adapting "The Thief and the Dogs" and "Miramar" in terms of visual style?
Artist Gamal Qabtan contributed by illustrating dream sequences and flashbacks in a distinct visual style. Hussein Mohamed handled the inking, Maha Mohamed designed the typography, Aly Galal designed the title, and Riham El-Sayed worked on the book&rsquo;s overall design.
Miramar, by contrast, was developed by a different team within the studio, led by artist Salma Zakaria in collaboration with screenwriter Mohamed Sarsawy. Each work has its own independent visual identity. The character-rich, layered world of "Miramar" is very different from the suspense-driven tone of The Thief and the Dogs.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fphoto.php%3Ffbid%3D10164215387586397%26set%3Da.196842411396%26type%3D3&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=500" width="500" height="250" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
What are your upcoming projects? Are there plans to adapt more of Mahfouz&rsquo;s novels?
The upcoming project is Children of the Alley.
<a href="https://ibb.co/YB0NcGHr"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/nMPw7SxW/2.png" alt="2" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
How do you engage with a younger audience, for whom comics may be their first introduction to Naguib Mahfouz?
I am very pleased by the responses from readers of different ages, especially young people who may be discovering Naguib Mahfouz for the first time through comics. For them, comics can serve as a gateway to his world, to literature more broadly, and to our literary heritage.
This year you are participating in the book fair with "The Three Fat Men." What are you offering visitors?
"The Three Fat Men" is presented as a new edition aimed at young adults, translated by Rola Adel. The idea is to present a global literary classic with a contemporary visual treatment, closer to comics, while highlighting the symbolic depth of the story in a way that resonates with a new generation.
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Your books are now available in Paris. How does it feel to reach an international audience?
It is both exciting and a great responsibility. Seeing the books available in Paris confirms that stories created locally can travel and reach readers across different cultures. It also opens the door to a wider global dialogue around Arab comics.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmigo.rollz%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02ai8YjXvi42wFChPwFDGa7SfmABdSQAh7HPP8wLaz3ZjjQ6mxFaJNx8jJ6PT9qiADl&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=500" width="500" height="590" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
Finally, what cultural message do you hope to convey through visually reviving Mahfouz&rsquo;s work?
The goal is to bring Naguib Mahfouz&rsquo;s world closer to new generations through a contemporary visual language, without losing the depth or spirit of the original texts. It is not simply a retelling, but a revival, transforming literature into a visual experience that shows these works are still alive and capable of transcending time and medium.
<a href="https://ibb.co/xS94kPjr"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/ccfmBMFs/3.png" alt="3" border="0" /></a>&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Migo's official page&nbsp;

Exclusive | Cairo Book Fair Spotlight: Migo Revives Naguib Mahfouz and Yuri Olesha for a New Generation

By: Yomna Walid
The Cairo International Book Fair is one of the Middle East&rsquo;s largest cultural events, drawing families, readers and writers from across generations. More than a commercial marketplace, the fair has long served as a space for cultural exchange and storytelling.
The 57th edition, which opened last Thursday, attracted more than 2 million visitors in its first five days, according to Egypt&rsquo;s Ministry of Culture.
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From Reader to Debut Author
NileFM joined debut novelist Amr Elhossiny during an exclusive tour of the fair, where he is presenting his first novel, Malabes Gadida (New Clothes).
For Elhossiny, this year marks a personal milestone. Having attended the fair since childhood, he is now taking part as an author, a transition he describes as deeply meaningful.
His interest in literature began early, shaped by popular Arabic series such as Samir and Ragol Al-Mustahil, as well as works by writers including Naguib Mahfouz, Fyodor Dostoevsky and Charles Dickens. He says writing became a way to process life and translate his experiences into fiction.
Writing without pause
Elhossiny describes his writing process as instinctive and continuous.
&ldquo;I wrote at any time and in any place,&rdquo; he says, explaining that he rarely allowed ideas to fade before committing them to paper.
Place plays a central role in "New Clothes.' Elhossiny says he personally visited every location featured in the novel to ensure accuracy and atmosphere, from Luxor&rsquo;s West Bank to the markets of Banha, and Cairo&rsquo;s Tawfiqia district.
The novel&rsquo;s primary setting, a psychiatric hospital in England, draws on his frequent travels to London. While some events are based on real experiences, he says names and details were altered to serve the narrative.
&nbsp;Fact, research and humility
The characters in the novel combine observation with research, particularly around themes of dissociative amnesia and childhood trauma. Elhossiny is cautious about overstating his achievement.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m not a professional writer yet,&rdquo; he says. &ldquo;But I tried honestly and worked very hard.&rdquo;
He is already working on two future projects, one aimed at children, and another focused on the October War. Adaptations of "New Clothes" for film or television, he says, will depend first on readers&rsquo; responses.
His advice to aspiring writers is direct: &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t despair. Don&rsquo;t stop. Read a lot, learn from your mistakes, and trust your knowledge.&rdquo;
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Illustrating emotions before words
Children&rsquo;s literature also features prominently at this year&rsquo;s fair, supported by workshops and activities organised by the Center for Documentation and Research in Children&rsquo;s Literature.
NileFM also met Esraa Karam, an illustrator and teaching assistant at the Faculty of Applied Arts, who contributed illustrations to the children&rsquo;s book Wahdi Amam El Bab (Alone at the Door), written by Hagar Mohamed.
Karam says illustration offers a unique way to communicate emotional depth to young readers.
&ldquo;Children feel the image before they understand the words,&rdquo; she explains.
Visual storytelling for young readers
In Alone at the Door, illustrations take a leading role. Karam says she focused on emotional balance, using colour, facial expression and body language to guide the child&rsquo;s response to each scene.
She worked closely with the author to ensure emotional consistency while maintaining her artistic independence.
One scene stands out for her, when the child character finally hugs her mother.
&ldquo;There was warmth and safety,&rdquo; she says. &ldquo;It felt like reassurance for the character and for me.&rdquo;
A record-breaking edition
The Cairo International Book Fair runs from 21 January to 3 February at the Egypt International Exhibitions Center. It is the largest edition in the fair&rsquo;s history, featuring 1,457 publishers from 83 countries and more than 6,600 exhibitors.
The programme includes hundreds of cultural events, book signings and artistic activities. Held under the slogan &ldquo;He who stops reading for an hour falls centuries behind,&rdquo; the fair welcomes Romania as guest of honour and celebrates Naguib Mahfouz as its featured literary figure.
For emerging writers and illustrators alike, the fair remains a vital platform showcasing new voices and reaffirming the enduring role of storytelling in Egyptian cultural life.
Photo Credit: Cairo International Book Fair&rsquo;s official page.

Exclusive | Inside The 57th Cairo International Book Fair: Debut Author Amr Elhossiny and Illustrator Esraa Karam

Nile FM Exclusive  

The Egyptian singer and songwriter Tasneem El Aidy is set to appear on NileFM&rsquo;s entertainment show Watchlist with Hisham on Wednesday, 28 January, from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
El Aidy began her music career in 2022, gaining early attention through videos of her performances shared online. Later that year, she wrote and recorded the song "We Coming Home" for the World Fencing Championships, collaborating with Hisham Kharma and Youssef Gabriel.
In June 2024, she released her single This Ain&rsquo;t No Love. She was also selected by UNICEF Egypt in December 2023 to represent young musicians as part of the organisation&rsquo;s Shabab Balad initiative.
Her growing profile was further recognised in 2024, when she was named among Forbes Middle East&rsquo;s 30 Under 30 Creators.
During the show, El Aidy is expected to discuss her music career and share her perspectives on the contemporary entertainment scene in conversation with host Hisham on 104.2 NileFM.

Tasneem El Aidy to Appear on NileFM’s Watchlist with Hisham

You might be dancing to Stromae&rsquo;s 2013 hit &ldquo;Papaoutai&rdquo;, but behind its catchy rhythm lies a story of loss, longing, and unanswered questions that has resonated with listeners worldwide for over a decade. The French-language song has surpassed one billion views on YouTube and continues to capture attention, now trending again thanks to a viral remix. The Story Behind the Song &ldquo;Papaoutai&rdquo; explores Stromae&rsquo;s relationship with his father, who was tragically killed during the 1994 Tutsi genocide in Rwanda when Stromae was only nine years old. In an interview with NPR, the artist recalled: &ldquo;Of course, my personal life is that I didn&rsquo;t really know my father. I met him sometimes, and he died in the Rwandan genocide. So that&rsquo;s why I was educated by my mother only.&rdquo; Because he was so young, his mother told him that his father was always at work, leaving Stromae to grow up asking the same haunting question: Where is my father? That persistent curiosity and pain eventually became the emotional core of &ldquo;Papaoutai.&rdquo;
<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/oiKj0Z_Xnjc" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Pain Revealed Through Lyrics and Visuals Lines like &ldquo;Tell me, where are you hiding?&rdquo; reflect the confusion and longing of a child searching for an absent parent. While the song&rsquo;s beat invites dancing, the lyrics deliver a raw emotional punch. The music video reinforces this story. A young boy attempts to connect with his father, portrayed by Stromae as a life-sized mannequin. Despite repeated efforts, even trying to play catch, the father remains unresponsive. The heartbreak is intensified as the child observes other kids in the neighborhood enjoying lively relationships with their parents, highlighting what he&rsquo;s missing. Why It&rsquo;s Trending Now The song&rsquo;s resurgence is largely due to a viral AI-generated Afro Soul remix sweeping TikTok and Instagram Reels. This version combines the original heartfelt lyrics with deep African rhythms, soulful piano chords, and a slower, more reflective tempo. In just a week, the remix has accumulated over 5 million views on social media, introducing &ldquo;Papaoutai&rdquo; to a new generation while reminding long-time fans of its emotional depth. Cultural Impact Beyond personal storytelling, &ldquo;Papaoutai&rdquo; cemented Stromae as an international star. The song&rsquo;s mix of danceable beats and deeply emotional lyrics set a standard in modern French and African pop, inspiring artists worldwide and influencing viral trends over a decade later. Why the Song Still Resonates Even ten years on, &ldquo;Papaoutai&rdquo; continues to strike a chord because it addresses a universal question: What happens when a parent is missing physically or emotionally? It&rsquo;s a reminder that some of the most upbeat songs carry the deepest pain, and that music can be both a celebration and a confession. Whether you&rsquo;re hearing it for the first time or the tenth, &ldquo;Papaoutai&rdquo; proves that the story behind the song is just as important as the rhythm that makes you dance. Photo Credit: Stromae&rsquo;s official page

The Pain Behind “Papaoutai” and Why It’s Back in The Spotlight

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

By: Yomna Walid
If you believe in your passion and commit to developing it, it can become both your career and a source of genuine fulfillment. This Thursday, Samy El Sakka takes over NileFM as DJ of the Week, stepping behind the decks at 10:00 PM to bring that belief to life.
What began as a personal passion has evolved into a distinctive sound and artistic vision. More than a DJ, Samy draws heavily on his background in photography, using its cinematic sensibility to shape his musical approach. Each set is thoughtfully curated designed to move the body while engaging emotion through layered sound and storytelling.
NileFM sits down with Samy El Sakka to explore his journey, from growing up in Spain to returning to Egypt, where his connection to music deepened into a refined understanding of rhythm, emotion, and visual narrative elements that now define every mix he creates.
1. Samy, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you started your journey as a DJ? I grew up in Spain before moving back to Egypt, and started as a music lover before anything else, digging for tracks, building playlists, and trying to understand how different sounds affect people&rsquo;s moods. Traveling all over the world and hearing different sets and sounds from many different artists inspired me to dig deeper into it and start developing my own sound. What began as a hobby slowly turned into late-night practice sessions, small gatherings, and eventually clubs and studios. Over time, DJing became my main creative outlet and a way to tell stories through sound.
<a href="https://ibb.co/4gtwQ0S6"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/NnCg4GN8/1.png" alt="1" border="0" /></a> 2. You&rsquo;re known not just for your sets but also for your keen eye in photography. How does your visual sense influence the way you choose or mix your tracks? When I mix, I imagine colors, moods, and movement the same way I frame a shot. It helps me build sets that feel cinematic, not random. I think in scenes and colors when I mix. A track can feel &ldquo;dark,&rdquo; &ldquo;warm,&rdquo; &ldquo;wide,&rdquo; or &ldquo;minimal,&rdquo; just like a photograph. That helps me create smoother transitions and emotional flow. I don&rsquo;t just think about BPM or key; I think about what kind of picture the sound is painting.
<a href="https://ibb.co/JWX3XLtf"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/twyLyfK7/2.png" alt="2" border="0" /></a> 3. Your &ldquo;Sam &amp; Chill&rdquo; series has been going strong for years. Which of your sets stands out as your personal favorite, and why? Each one represents a different chapter, but the ones recorded during more emotional or transitional periods stand out. They feel more honest and personal because the music reflects exactly where I was mentally and creatively. One of my favorites is Sam &amp; Chill Vol. I or II. It captured a very honest moment in my life, calm, reflective, but still hopeful. It wasn&rsquo;t about impressing anyone technically; it was about feeling something real, and people connected with that. 4. Behind every set, there&rsquo;s a story. Can you take us behind the scenes of one of your most memorable live performances? One of my most memorable sets was when the crowd and I connected instantly. I changed my planned tracklist, which I worked on for, like, weeks before, halfway because I felt a different energy, and the room transformed. It reminded me that DJing is about listening as much as playing. 5. How do you balance creating music that energizes the crowd with your personal artistic vision? I treat it like a conversation. I listen to the crowd, but I don&rsquo;t let go of my identity. Sometimes I meet them where they are; sometimes I lead them somewhere new. The balance is respecting their energy while still telling my story. 6. NileFM listeners love surprises. Are there any special moments or sets you&rsquo;ve prepared for them recently that you can tease? I&rsquo;ve been working on deeper, more melodic, different genres, and sets recently, still danceable, but more emotional and cinematic. I like to keep details secret, but listeners can expect something a little different from the usual formula and more out of the ordinary than expected. 7. Afro House and Tech are big parts of your style. What draws you to these genres, and how do you decide which tracks fit together? Afro House is a vibe and a true definition of how the sound can evolve over the years, However tech for me gives me structure, drive, rhythm, and most importantly, the groove. Together, they create a perfect balance between emotion and movement. I choose tracks that speak the same &ldquo;language,&rdquo; which is based on feeling first, even if they come from different places. 8. As someone who appreciates good visuals, do you ever plan your sets to create a &ldquo;visual journey&rdquo; for your audience? Yes, always. I think of my sets as a journey from darkness to light, from calm to intensity, just like a visual story. I imagine the night like a short film: an introduction, rising action, peak, and a calm ending. Lighting, mood, and even how people move become part of that story. That's why I always urge my friends to listen to my sets without pauses, breaks, or any disturbances, just one go on one journey. 9. Your fans follow your mixes online, like &ldquo;Sam &amp; Chill Vol XXIII.&rdquo; How do you keep each volume fresh and unique while maintaining your signature sound? I never force it. Each volume reflects where I am at that moment, what I&rsquo;m listening to, what I&rsquo;m feeling, and what inspires me. The signature sound stays, but the emotions change. I let my life influence each volume. New emotions, new experiences, new sounds. The signature stays, but the mood evolves. It&rsquo;s like a new storyline of my life each time with a new plot, characters, and feelings that reflect on the music, if that makes sense.
<a href="https://ibb.co/RkCdVRvQ"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/XrzMvc2F/3.png" alt="3" border="0" /></a> 10. For young DJs or music lovers inspired by your work, what advice would you give about connecting emotion, rhythm, and audience energy? Don&rsquo;t play to impress; play to express. Feel the music before trying to control it. When you connect emotionally, the audience will follow naturally. Listen to yourself. Technique matters, but emotion matters more. If you can make people feel something joy, nostalgia, or freedom, you&rsquo;ve already won.&nbsp;

Exclusive | Samy El Sakka Turns His Hobby into a Cinematic Music Journey on NileFM

Golf in Egypt is quietly undergoing a transformation, and it is no longer happening behind the scenes.
On The Big Drive with Sami and Nadine, NileFM welcomed Mr. Keith Waters, Commissioner and Chairman of the MENA Golf Tour, alongside Mr. Omar Talaat, Chairman of the Egyptian Golf Federation, for an in-depth conversation about the future of golf in Egypt and across the wider MENA region.
From global rankings and Olympic qualification pathways to golf tourism, youth development, and Egypt&rsquo;s emergence as a winter hub for international tournaments, the discussion revealed how the sport is evolving faster than many might expect.
NileFM dives deeper with them to uncover everything you need to know about the MENA Golf Tour and what this new chapter means for Egypt.
So, Keith, first question for you. For viewers tuning in across Egypt and the region, give us the headline first, what is the MENA Golf Tour, and why does it matter in today&rsquo;s professional game?
Keith: In today&rsquo;s professional game, the MENA Golf Tour has actually been relaunched only at the end of last year. It did exist before, starting back in 2013. It is primarily for local golfers to showcase their talents on a global platform. There has been a huge contingent of international players attracted to North Africa and the Middle East, which is where the MENA letters come from. It was hugely successful until COVID, when travel issues affected the Tour. The relaunch has been very successful, with a large number of international players. If I am correct, we have 12 Egyptian players in the field tomorrow morning. It gives talented young players from the local region the opportunity to showcase their skills, compete with very experienced professional golfers, and receive world ranking points, which gives them a platform to progress.
Mr. Omar, when people hear &lsquo;golf&rsquo;, they don&rsquo;t usually think of fast growth or excitement. What&rsquo;s really happening in golf in Egypt right now?
Omar: Let me start with something that surprises most people. Golf in Egypt is currently one of the fastest-growing sports ecosystems in the country. I do not mean participation only, but growth in many different terms: tourism, media exposure, and international relevance. It is all happening at the same time. For years, golf in Egypt existed quietly in the background. We enjoyed beautiful courses and perfect weather, but we had very little visibility.
One of the Tour&rsquo;s biggest strengths is that it offers Official World Golf Ranking points. In simple terms, why are those points so crucial for a young professional trying to climb the ladder?
Keith: If a player performs well in a World Ranking, approved event, which all our MENA Tour events are, they receive points and are ranked globally alongside the best professional golfers in the world. The American and European Tours feature the top players, but rankings allow you to quickly calibrate where you stand. These rankings are also used to qualify players for the Olympics. For example, the best Egyptian player, even if ranked around 300th globally, can still represent Egypt at the Olympics. That is just one example of how rankings help players progress and measure themselves against the world&rsquo;s best.
For people listening who don&rsquo;t play golf at all, what can you tell them about this event that could pique their interest and help them understand its importance?
Omar: First of all, as Keith explained, we get significant international exposure. One notable outcome is that when international tours approve our courses in Egypt, it is a major stamp of approval. We have some of the most beautiful courses in the world and perfect weather. This visibility helps present Egypt to the global golfing community.
We&rsquo;ve seen players use this exact pathway to reach the very top, names like Matt Fitzpatrick and Robert MacIntyre. How important are those success stories when motivating today&rsquo;s players?
Keith: They are absolutely crucial. Many world-class players talk about how they followed local or televised players who inspired them to take up the game. As youngsters, players copy their idols, from technique to equipment. These success stories are hugely inspirational and motivate young players to practice, compete, and improve.
This all seems to have accelerated very quickly. Why now? What changed over the last year?
Omar: What is happening today is not accidental. It is the result of a complete reset. When the new federation took office over 14 months ago, we asked a simple question: why isn&rsquo;t Egypt visible internationally in a sport where we should naturally lead? We have perfect winter weather, championship courses, direct flights, and over a hundred years of golf history. That question changed everything and marked the beginning of this transformation.
Bringing it closer to home, what does the MENA Golf Tour offer Egyptian golfers specifically that perhaps didn&rsquo;t exist 10 or 15 years ago?
Keith: It offers the opportunity to compete against experienced international players. Younger players learn by competing in the same arena, while also gaining ranking points through the MENA Tour and the Official World Golf Ranking. Both pathways help players progress. It is a combination of learning and long-term development.
A lot of sports talk about plans and visions, what did you actually change on the ground to ensure it grows in popularity and success?
Omar: The first thing we focused on was governance and financial discipline. In under seven months, we reversed years of operating deficits and moved the federation into a financial surplus. That surplus was reinvested into juniors, national teams, and coaching. We brought in an experienced British coach to help develop players, referees, and international events. Participation has grown by 30 percent, casual participation has more than doubled, and golf is becoming a public sport again.
This season includes a dedicated Egyptian Swing made up of four events. Why is that structure so appealing for players?
Keith: Players can compete in four tournaments in a short period with only one flight. They experience a country with variety, tradition, and high-quality courses. The events offer prize money, world ranking points, and efficient travel between venues, making it highly attractive for international professionals.
Was there a specific moment where you realized this had gone international?
Omar: Towards the end of last year was the real turning point. In four consecutive weeks, Egypt hosted four major international championships across men&rsquo;s, ladies&rsquo;, juniors, and professionals. These events were globally televised and streamed online, reaching over 15 million viewers worldwide.
When international players come here to compete, how important is that exposure beyond professional golf?
Keith: Golf tourism is extremely valuable. Golfers travel, stay longer, spend more, and often return if they enjoy the experience. This makes golf a powerful driver of tourism and economic growth.
What did that level of international exposure actually changes for Egypt?
Omar: It changed how tours, sponsors, and players view Egypt. It proved that Egypt can host international-standard events, reach a global audience, and deliver a commercially viable product.
What would you say to someone listening right now who&rsquo;s never tried golf?
Keith: Go to a golf club, speak to a local professional, and start with proper guidance. Early technique makes a huge difference.
Omar: Join the momentum. Golf in Egypt is back, aligned with the country&rsquo;s ambition and global positioning. This is only the beginning.
How to watch?
The tournament is open to the public, and live streaming is available on the Egyptian Golf Federation&rsquo;s social media pages. Fans can also follow live scoring and player information through the MENA Golf Tour app, available on app stores.
&nbsp;

Egypt’s Golf Moment: Inside The MENA Golf Tour’s Return and a New Era for the Sport

NileFM listeners are in for a special golf-focused edition of The Big Drive Show with Sami and Nadine, airing today, Sunday, 18 January 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, featuring two influential figures from the regional and international golf scene. The episode will welcome Keith Waters, Chairman and Commissioner of the MENA Golf Tour, who will offer a broader regional perspective. Waters will reflect on his professional journey, the growth of golf across the Middle East and North Africa, and the role of leadership in shaping successful sports platforms. Listeners can also expect behind-the-scenes stories from the tour and valuable insights for aspiring professionals and sports enthusiasts. Joining the show as well is Omar Hisham Talaat, president of the Egyptian Golf Federation, for an insightful conversation on the evolution of golf in Egypt. The discussion will explore the federation&rsquo;s efforts to develop local talent, expand grassroots programs, and strengthen the impact of the Egypt Golf Series in positioning Egypt firmly on the international sports map. From nurturing young players to hosting world-class tournaments, Talaat will share how Egyptian golf is gaining global recognition and what lies ahead for the sport. This special episode promises engaging discussions, expert perspectives, and a closer look at the future of golf in Egypt and the wider MENA region. Don&rsquo;t miss this inspiring and informative broadcast, tune in to NileFM today and catch Keith Waters and Omar Hisham Talaat live with Sami and Nadine on The Big Drive Show.
&nbsp;

Keith Waters and Omar Hisham Talaat Join Sami and Nadine on NileFM’s Big Drive Show

Nile FM's Guests

Liverpool says Mohamed Salah has become the first player in Premier League history to reach double figures for both goals and assists against a single opponent.
The Egyptian forward achieved the landmark during Liverpool&rsquo;s 4&ndash;1 win over Newcastle United at Anfield. While Salah did not score, his assist for the opening goal, the first of Hugo Ekitike&rsquo;s two, secured his place in the record books.
Salah now has 10 goals and 10 assists against Newcastle, making him the first player to register double-digit goal contributions in both categories against one club in the Premier League era.
The assist also helped him set another record, as he became the player with the most goal contributions at a single venue. Salah has now recorded 107 goals and 45 assists at Anfield, taking his total there to 152.
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In doing so, he moved ahead of Manchester United and Arsenal greats Wayne Rooney and Thierry Henry, who each registered 151 goal contributions at Old Trafford and Highbury respectively.
Liverpool&rsquo;s meetings with Newcastle are among the Premier League&rsquo;s most prolific fixtures, producing 198 goals in total, behind only Liverpool versus Tottenham (209) and Arsenal versus Liverpool (199).
Newcastle currently sit 11th in the Premier League table, while Liverpool is sixth as they look to climb higher.
Liverpool&rsquo;s next match comes on Sunday, 8 February, when they face Manchester City, setting up a possible Egyptian duel between Salah and Omar Marmoush. City are second in the table, with Liverpool continuing their push towards the top.
Photo Credit: Liverpool&rsquo;s official page

Mohamed Salah Sets New Premier League Record at Anfield

Egypt&rsquo;s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency (MSMEDA) has received international recognition after winning an award from International Finance Magazine for its role in supporting innovative startups.
The award, presented at the magazine&rsquo;s International Finance Awards, recognises MSMEDA&rsquo;s venture capital programme and its contribution to developing Egypt&rsquo;s startup ecosystem.
MSMEDA&rsquo;s chief executive, Basel Rahmy, accepted the award, saying it reflected Egypt&rsquo;s growing international standing and the government&rsquo;s focus on youth, innovation and entrepreneurship. He said continued backing for the agency had helped expand funding programmes targeting startups and specialised venture capital funds.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FEgyptianCabinet%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0cYWJY34ARtPCE1F8FsoMAaTGCArHwtL1wvPQTUVTs5h19VyVRfgssw9kcTnr3xVgl&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="735" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>&nbsp;
Mr Rahmy highlighted cooperation with the World Bank, which provided &euro;50m to support the initiative. The programme offers funding and training to entrepreneurs, helping them develop products, expand services and access international markets.
He added that, with the support of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Egypt plans to continue expanding financing opportunities to enable startups to grow and export globally.
The award ceremony, held in Dubai, was attended by MSMEDA Deputy Chief Executive Mohamed Medhat, Venture Capital Sector Head Hani Emad, and World Bank representative Laila Abdelkader.
The International Finance Awards recognise institutions worldwide for financial innovation, strategic leadership and market impact. The magazine said MSMEDA&rsquo;s programme stood out as one of Egypt&rsquo;s first government-backed initiatives aimed at financing high-growth startups and attracting private and international investment.
The recognition highlights MSMEDA&rsquo;s role in using innovative financing tools, supported by government policy, to address funding challenges faced by startups and fast-growing small businesses. The programme forms part of Egypt&rsquo;s wider strategy to promote innovation, support entrepreneurship and create new jobs.
Photo Credit: Cabinet of Egypt&rsquo;s official page

Egypt’s MSMEDA Wins International Award for Startup Support

The US dollar recorded a slight decline against the Egyptian pound on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, according to figures released by the National Bank of Egypt (NBE). The dollar was trading at EGP 47.04, down from EGP 47.10 at the previous close. This modest movement reflects limited activity in the foreign exchange market, with the Egyptian pound continuing to fluctuate amid ongoing economic pressures.
<a href="https://ibb.co/Xf2mRrjg"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/xKCVTtX0/Egypt-Weather-2026-02-03-T084827-322.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-02-03-T084827-322" border="0" /></a> Photo Credit: Freepik

Exchange Rates | US Dollar Falls to 47.04 Against Egyptian Pound – 3 February

Egypt is expected to see a slight and temporary drop in temperatures across most parts of the country on Tuesday, 3 February, according to the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA).
Daytime conditions will be generally mild nationwide, although Upper Egypt is forecast to remain warm. Temperatures will fall sharply at night, with very cold conditions expected across all regions.
Strong winds, reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour, will affect much of the country. The EMA has warned that the winds could raise sand and dust, particularly in Sinai, the Red Sea governorate and southern Egypt, reducing visibility on some roads.
Hanging dust is also expected during the morning hours over Greater Cairo, the Nile Delta and Canal cities.
Light to occasionally moderate rainfall is forecast for the northern coastal areas and the northern Nile Delta, with showers expected at intervals throughout the day. There is also a weak chance, around 20%, of light rain over parts of Greater Cairo and the southern Nile Delta.
<a href="https://ibb.co/MyWSJygx"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/twkK1wHT/Egypt-Weather-2026-02-03-T083242-331.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-02-03-T083242-331" border="0" /></a>
Photo Credit: Freepik&nbsp;

Egypt Weather | Temperatures Dip with Chance of Light Rain – 3 February 

The US dollar has strengthened slightly against the Egyptian pound in early trading, according to figures from the National Bank of Egypt (NBE).
On Monday, 2 February 2026, the dollar was trading at EGP 47.10, up from EGP 46.88 at the previous close.
The modest rise reflects limited movement in the foreign exchange market, with the pound continuing to fluctuate amid ongoing economic pressures.
<a href="https://ibb.co/7xQcPWh9"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/kVJnj8Zd/Egypt-Weather-2026-02-02-T084404-209.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-02-02-T084404-209" border="0" /></a>
Photo Credit: Freepik&nbsp;

Exchange rates | US Dollar Edges Up Against Egyptian Pound – 2 February

Egypt is set to see generally warm weather during the day across most regions on Monday, 2 February, turning hot in Upper Egypt, according to the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA). Temperatures will fall at night, bringing colder conditions nationwide.
Active winds, with speeds of between 30 and 40 km/h, are forecast over parts of the Western Desert and northern Egypt, extending to Greater Cairo, northern Upper Egypt, and Sinai. The winds may raise sand and dust in some areas, leading to reduced horizontal visibility, particularly in open and exposed locations.
The EMA has also warned of suspended dust during daylight hours at intervals in parts of southern Upper Egypt and the Red Sea governorate.
Elsewhere, there is a weak chance of light rain along the northwest coast and the northern Delta. These showers could extend to scattered areas of the southern Delta and Greater Cairo, though the probability remains low at around 20%.
<a href="https://ibb.co/gFXNBJVT"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/bRyT8XJB/Egypt-Weather-2026-02-02-T083822-985.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-02-02-T083822-985" border="0" /></a>
Photo Credit: Freepik&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Egypt Weather | Warm Days and Dusty Winds Expected – 2 February

Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdelkarim has officially arrived in Spain after FC Barcelona reached an agreement with Al Ahly to sign the forward on loan until 30 June 2026, with an option to buy at the end of the season. Abdelkarim joins Bar&ccedil;a Atl&egrave;tic after successfully passing his medical tests and touring the club&rsquo;s facilities. He is expected to begin training with his new teammates in the coming days. First Egyptian to Play for a Blaugrana Side Born on 1 January 2008, Hamza Abdelkarim is set to make history as the first Egyptian player to represent a Blaugrana side. The forward came through Al Ahly&rsquo;s youth academy and has represented Egypt at the U-17 level, where he impressed on the international stage. A mobile attacker with strong link-up play and a sharp eye for goal, Abdelkarim has already made appearances for Al Ahly&rsquo;s first team, including matches in the CAF Champions League and the Egyptian Cup. Speaking about his move, Abdelkarim said: &ldquo;The feeling is great. I am ready and excited. I love football; it&rsquo;s my passion. This is a new step for me, and I hope to make everyone proud.&rdquo; Breakout Star at the U-17 World Cup Abdelkarim drew widespread attention during the FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he emerged as one of Egypt&rsquo;s standout performers. He recorded two goals and one assist in four matches, performances that attracted interest from several European clubs. Barcelona moved swiftly to secure the young forward&rsquo;s signature, underlining the club&rsquo;s confidence in his potential and long-term development. Photo Credit: Barcelona&rsquo;s official page

Al Ahly Talent Hamza Abdelkarim Joins Barcelona, Making History as The First Egyptian

Merchants in Egypt can now turn their smartphones and tablets into electronic payment points, thanks to the Central Bank of Egypt&rsquo;s (CBE) latest initiative. The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) announced the launch of contactless electronic payment acceptance service through smart devices (mobile phones/tablets), utilizing Soft POS applications. This step is part of the CBE&rsquo;s strategy to transition towards a less-cash society, promote financial inclusion, and achieve Egypt&rsquo;s Vision 2030. The service enables smart devices to operate as electronic acceptance points, allowing merchants to receive payments from various types of contactless cards, through downloading a Soft POS application on their smart devices, with card PINs entered safely on the smart device in an internationally accredited and secured manner. In this regard, H.E. Mr. Hassan Abdalla, Governor of the CBE, highlighted that, &ldquo;The new service aligns with the CBE&rsquo;s progressive efforts to enable the infrastructure for the expansion of electronic payment systems and to facilitate financial transactions for citizens and merchants. This supports financial inclusion&rsquo;s strides and enhances the access to electronic financial services anytime and anywhere.&rdquo; This newly launched service eliminates the purchase and maintenance costs of traditional POS terminals for Payment Service providers, companies or merchants, while integrating new segments of small enterprises into the electronic payment acceptance ecosystem. Additionally, it improves the customer experience by availing swift, secure, and flexible payment processes. Noteworthy, the CBE had launched a pilot version of the service in previous years, with a transaction limit of EGP 600. The latest update and official launch of the service are part of the CBE&rsquo;s unwavering efforts to advance payment services and strengthen the infrastructure of digital financial services, keeping abreast of the latest global developments in the electronic payments&rsquo; domain, in addition to equipping merchants and payment service providers with flexible and low-cost e-payment acceptance solutions via smartphones. Check out the infographic to know how a Soft POS Transaction Works &bull; The customer places their contactless card on the merchant&rsquo;s smart device (mobile phone or tablet) equipped with the Soft POS application. &bull; The customer securely enters their card PIN on the smart device screen. &bull; The transaction amount is deducted from the contactless card, completing the payment.
<a href="https://ibb.co/fYznPMHB"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/svd6Mjqk/Infographic-Digital-Payments.jpg" alt="Infographic-Digital-Payments" border="0" /></a> Photo Credit: Central Bank of Egypt&rsquo;s official page

Infographic | Central Bank of Egypt Launches Contactless Payments via Smartphones

The US dollar held steady against the Egyptian pound during early trading on Sunday, 1 February 2026, as the local currency remained stable, according to data from the National Bank of Egypt (NBE). The dollar was trading at EGP 46.88, unchanged from its previous close of EGP 46.88, reflecting limited movement in the foreign exchange market amid ongoing fluctuations.
<a href="https://ibb.co/gMSJk2mg"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/5WrLb0Gc/Egypt-Weather-2026-02-01-T085543-820.png" alt="Egypt-Weather-2026-02-01-T085543-820" border="0" /></a> Photo Credit: Freepik

Exchange Rates | US Dollar Holds Steady at EGP 46.88 Against Egyptian Pound – 1 February

Top News 
Current Affairs 
Local News 
International News 

News

Following the conclusion of the AFCON tournament, the Egyptian Premier League officially returns on 21 January, with Al Ahly set to play their first league match since 2 November. The Red Devils face Wadi Degla today at 5:00 PM in a Matchday 16 clash. Al Ahly currently sit third in the league table, while Wadi Degla occupy fourth place, making the fixture one of the most anticipated matches of the round. The Red Devils have played 12 matches so far this season, recording six wins, five draws, and two defeats. Meanwhile, Wadi Degla have contested 14 matches, securing six wins, five draws, and three losses. Al Ahly will be aiming to return to winning ways after their last league appearance on 2 November, which ended in a draw against Al Masry. Alongside their domestic return, Al Ahly continue to balance league action with continental commitments, as they prepare for their upcoming CAF Champions League fixture against Young Africans on 31 January 2026. The two sides last met on Friday, when Al Ahly secured a 2&ndash;0 victory. With the league&rsquo;s return, excitement among Egyptian football fans is rising, as attention shifts back to domestic competition and anticipation builds for the upcoming rounds of the season.
Photo Credit: Al Ahly's official page&nbsp;

Al Ahly Return to Egyptian Premier League Action After AFCON Break

Egyptian fencer Ziad El-Sissy claimed another major victory, winning bronze at the Fencing World Cup held in Salt Lake City, USA, from January 22 to 25, 2026. Ziad&rsquo;s journey to the podium was not easy: he defeated Spain&rsquo;s Jaime Flores 15&ndash;11 to reach the Round of 16, then overcame American Colin Heathcock 15&ndash;12 to advance to the quarterfinals. In the semifinals, he faced Romania&rsquo;s champion and secured victory with a golden touch, guaranteeing a world medal for Egypt before claiming bronze.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FEgyFencing%2Fposts%2Fpfbid028R1Wh6rYAzws1DgeSepuPYcfWuhBVKKbw6mFY2VHy9v2kUHhMcWXdeVPG6NrBH2kl&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=500" width="500" height="498" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Ziad has a remarkable track record: in 2023, he became the first Egyptian fencer to win a medal in an individual event at the World Championships, earning bronze in Milan. At the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, he finished 4th in individual competition and led the first-ever African/Arab team to win gold at the 2025 Budapest World Cup.
Photo Credit:&nbsp;FIE - International Fencing Federation's official page &nbsp;

Ziad El-Sissy Wins Bronze at Fencing World Cup in The USA

Football fans are eagerly anticipating tonight&rsquo;s UEFA Champions League clash, as Real Madrid host Monaco at the Santiago Bernab&eacute;u at 10:00 PM. The match marks Real Madrid&rsquo;s seventh&mdash;and penultimate&mdash;group-stage fixture, coming more than a month after their last Champions League appearance.
Real Madrid currently sit in the top seven of their group, while Monaco are placed 19th, making this encounter crucial for both sides. For Madrid, securing all three points is essential to remain among the top eight teams, which guarantees direct qualification to the round of 16.
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A Tough Champions League Journey
Real Madrid&rsquo;s Champions League campaign has been far from straightforward. The Spanish giants have recorded four wins&mdash;against Marseille, Kairat Almaty, Juventus, and Olympiacos&mdash;while suffering two defeats to Liverpool and Manchester City. Tonight&rsquo;s match represents a key opportunity to strengthen their position at a decisive stage of the competition.
A Rare European History
According to UEFA, Real Madrid and Monaco have met only once before in European competition: the 2003/2004 Champions League quarter-finals. Real Madrid won the first leg 4&ndash;2 at home, but Monaco responded with a 3&ndash;1 victory in the return leg, progressing to the semi-finals on away goals, a result still remembered by Madrid fans.
Facing Former Clubs
Tonight&rsquo;s match also carries personal significance for some Real Madrid players. Kylian Mbapp&eacute;, one of the squad&rsquo;s most high-profile figures, came through Monaco&rsquo;s academy and enjoyed his breakthrough there before moving to Paris Saint-Germain and eventually Real Madrid.
Midfielder Aur&eacute;lien Tchouam&eacute;ni is another key player with Monaco ties, having joined Real Madrid from the French side in 2022, where he has since established himself as an important part of the team.
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What Real Madrid Figures Said
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, &Aacute;lvaro Arbeloa emphasized the importance of the game: "Beating Monaco will bring us much closer to the goal."
Mbapp&eacute;, who is named in the squad, also spoke to the media: "We have to go after Monaco from the off and win the game to be among the top eight."
The French forward comes into the match in strong form, having recently scored his 50th LaLiga goal for Real Madrid.
Real Madrid Squad for Champions League Matchday 7
Goalkeepers: Courtois, Lunin, Fran Gonz&aacute;lez Defenders: Carvajal, Alaba, Asencio, Fran Garc&iacute;a, Huijsen Midfielders: Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Tchouam&eacute;ni, Arda G&uuml;ler, Ceballos, Pol Fortuny, Mesonero Forwards: Vin&iacute;cius Jr., Mbapp&eacute;, Gonzalo, Mastantuono
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Monaco&rsquo;s Perspective
Monaco arrived at the Santiago Bernab&eacute;u 19th in the Champions League table with nine points, having recorded two wins, three draws, and one defeat. They will be aiming for a positive result to move away from the knockout-zone positions.
In domestic action, Monaco are currently ninth in Ligue 1 and come into the match following a 1&ndash;3 home defeat to Lorient.
Defender Thilo Kehrer spoke ahead of the match: "We will need to put in the necessary effort on the pitch, have the right mentality, be competitive, and play together as a united team. We will have to stay attentive and focused for 90 minutes."
Photo Credit: Real Madrid&rsquo;s official page

Why Real Madrid vs Monaco Matters to Real Madrid Fans

Sports 
Football 
Sports News 
Local Football 
International Football

Sports

Under the &ldquo;Rabies-Free Egypt 2030&rdquo; strategy, 293 stray dogs were vaccinated in a single day, as authorities shift from crisis management to long-term solutions. Egypt&rsquo;s Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation has launched the first field phase of its national campaign to vaccinate and sterilize stray dogs, starting in the Ain Shams district of Cairo, in a move aimed at protecting public health and addressing the stray dog issue through sustainable and humane measures. The campaign is part of the national strategy &ldquo;Rabies-Free Egypt 2030&rdquo; and reflects a clear policy shift from short-term crisis management to science-based, long-term solutions. Ain Shams was chosen as the starting point due to repeated public complaints and the need for early intervention to reduce health risks associated with rabies.
<a href="https://ibb.co/JWsns0Bt"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/35C1CGrd/Rabies-Free-Egypt-2030-Instagram-Post-Golden-Dog-1.png" alt="Rabies-Free-Egypt-2030-Instagram-Post-Golden-Dog-1" border="0" /></a> From Crisis Management to Sustainable Solutions Minister of Agriculture Alaa Farouk said the initiative marks a transition toward root solutions, emphasizing that the campaign follows internationally recognized standards and prioritizes cooperation between government institutions and civil society. The field operations are being implemented under the supervision of the General Organization of Veterinary Services, in coordination with the General Administration of Animal Welfare and Licensing, and in cooperation with the Federation of Animal Welfare Associations.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FEgyptianCabinet%2Fposts%2Fpfbid05FdszQCgiwtgSm1nbRSzVjCPe32zHrAFVWgohq86NmSVrQVunqh5U7mTCJfbqvqFl&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="250" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> On the first day of the campaign, veterinary teams vaccinated 293 stray dogs against rabies, while 25 dogs were transferred to designated shelters to undergo surgical sterilization before being safely returned to their original environment. Officials said this approach helps maintain ecological balance and prevents the spread of disease by limiting the entry of unvaccinated animals into treated areas. Alongside vaccination efforts, veterinary awareness teams launched an on-ground community outreach campaign to educate residents on safe interaction with stray dogs and methods of preventing zoonotic diseases. The ministry confirmed that the Ain Shams phase represents the foundation of a nationwide rollout, which will be gradually expanded across all governorates according to a set timeline, in line with Egypt&rsquo;s goal of eliminating rabies by 2030.
Photo Credit: Egyptian Cabinet's official page&nbsp;

Infographic | Egypt Begins Nationwide Stray Dog Vaccination Drive Under ‘Rabies-Free Egypt 2030’ Strategy

CEO Women has announced the launch of She FinTech, a major competitive initiative aimed at empowering women in FinTech and Digital Innovation. The competition comes as part of CEO Women&rsquo;s ongoing commitment to supporting female entrepreneurs across the region and builds on the success of the Entrepreneur Zone featured within CEO Women&rsquo;s flagship events.
The initiative offers total awards of USD 120,000, including USD 50,000 in financial support and USD 70,000 in technical support, designed to fuel innovative ideas and accelerate the growth of women-led ventures. The initiative reflects CEO Women&rsquo;s strong belief that investing in women&rsquo;s creativity is essential to driving economic and social development.
Mona Morad, Founder and CEO of CEO Women, highlighted the significance of the competition, stating: &ldquo;She FinTech represents a vital platform to advance women&rsquo;s presence in both digital and financial sectors. We are committed to creating opportunities for visibility, growth, and regional expansion for women-led businesses.&rdquo;
The competition expands regionally to include participants from across the Middle East and North Africa, establishing She FinTech as a leading platform that brings together women innovators and fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange across the region.
The winning companies will be announced during a special ceremony held at the closing of the CEO Women 2026 events in Cairo, in the presence of distinguished leaders, experts, and key figures from the financial and technology sectors.
CEO Women invites female entrepreneurs in FinTech and Digital Innovation to participate in the competition and benefit from the financial and technical support offered. Further details about the application process will be shared in the upcoming announcements.

CEO Women Launches “She FinTech” Competition to Empower Women in FinTech and Digital Innovation with Total Awards of USD 120,000

At just 23, Wednesday star Jenna Ortega has become the youngest jury member in the history of the Marrakech Film Festival, joining an international panel that includes Bong Joon Ho, Palme d&rsquo;Or winner Julia Ducournau, and Oscar nominee Celine Song.
Speaking about the responsibility, Ortega said she refuses to let pressure overshadow the moment. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m not intimidated because I&rsquo;m so overwhelmed with gratitude,&rdquo; she noted. &ldquo;It would be a shame to come into this experience weighed down by external pressure. At the end of the day, we&rsquo;re all on the same team.&rdquo; Known for her forthrightness, she added: &ldquo;It&rsquo;s very hard for me to put up a front. More than anything, I just want to be as present as possible.&rdquo;
Her presence adds a candid and youthful perspective to a jury reviewing 14 debut and second features, including Akinola Davies Jr.&rsquo;s My Father&rsquo;s Shadow, Zamo Mkhwanazi&rsquo;s Laundry and Morad Mostafa&rsquo;s Aisha Can&rsquo;t Fly Away. Alongside fellow jurors Anya Taylor-Joy, Karim A&iuml;nouz, and Hakim Belabbes, Ortega&rsquo;s role signals how emerging voices are increasingly shaping global cinema conversations.
Fresh Eyes on AI and Storytelling
During a press briefing, Ortega reflected on artificial intelligence in film, referencing her work in Taika Waititi&rsquo;s Klara and the Sun, where she acted opposite a solar-powered AI robot capable of expressing human emotion. Describing AI as &ldquo;a Pandora&rsquo;s box,&rdquo; she said the experience pushed her to consider how technology is redefining narrative, performance, and the boundaries between human and machine.
Facing Challenges Head-On
Ortega also spoke openly about navigating challenges. &ldquo;The only way to deal with these hardships is to face them forward,&rdquo; she said, underlining an approach rooted in honesty and presence. These qualities, she suggested, shape both her craft and her contribution to the jury.
With her blend of modern perspective, transparency, and fearlessness, Jenna Ortega is showing that a younger generation can offer not just fresh insight, but meaningful influence at one of the world&rsquo;s leading film festivals.
Photo Credit: Jenna Ortega's official page&nbsp;

Jenna Ortega at The Marrakech Film Festival: AI, Cinema and Fearlessness

For years, fibromyalgia was that invisible ghost of pain that people whispered about but never really understood. That changed when Montahy Al Salahya&mdash;Farrag&rsquo;s Ramadan series&mdash;threw it into the mainstream, finally showing the exhaustion, confusion and daily battle of living with a condition that has no obvious scars. It was raw, relatable and sparked the question millions have quietly asked: what is&nbsp;fibromyalgia?
 And now, for the first time in nearly 15 years, there&rsquo;s an answer that feels hopeful. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Tonmya&nbsp;(cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablets), the first new treatment for fibromyalgia since the late 2000s. Unlike older medications that only offered partial relief, this one&rsquo;s non-opioid, placed under the tongue and taken at bedtime&mdash;targeting both chronic pain and sleep disruption, two of the condition&rsquo;s most frustrating hallmarks.
 Clinical trials showed promising results: participants reported a 30 percent or greater drop in pain levels, and their sleep noticeably improved. Sure, side-effects like drowsiness and numbness appeared, but they were mild compared to what patients have endured on previous treatments.
 But let&rsquo;s be honest&mdash;it&rsquo;s not a miracle cure. Fibromyalgia is complex. It messes with sleep, focus, mood and the nervous system all at once. Tonmya&nbsp;may not end the fight, but it finally feels like medicine is taking this battle seriously. The drug is expected to hit pharmacies by late 2025, and when it does, it could redefine what hope looks like for millions living in quiet pain.
 For once, the conversation about fibromyalgia isn&rsquo;t being spoken over&nbsp;patients&mdash;it&rsquo;s being spoken with&nbsp;them.
Photo Credit:&nbsp;geralt, Creative Commons Zero, Public Domain Dedication
&nbsp;

Fibromyalgia Finally Has a New Treatment After 15 Years

In line with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi&rsquo;s directives, Egypt is intensifying efforts to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into education through expanded international cooperation with Japan, new training programs, and curriculum reforms.
Training Teachers and &ldquo;Ambassadors of Development&rdquo; The initiative will prioritize training computer science teachers, supervisors, subject advisors, and members of the technology development team&mdash;known as the &ldquo;Ambassadors of Development.&rdquo; This training is part of Egypt&ndash;Japan cooperation aimed at strengthening digital education.
Opportunities for Outstanding Students Exceptional students from governorates across Egypt will be selected to participate in specialized training sessions with leading Japanese companies via video conferencing. These opportunities will expose students to global expertise, help them develop practical skills, and enhance their competitiveness in the labor market.
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AI Education Beyond the Classroom Officials highlighted that teaching AI and programming not only enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also contributes to Egypt&rsquo;s national economy and supports sustainable development goals.
Integrating AI into School Curricula Minister of Education and Technical Education Mohamed Abdel Latif announced that AI curricula will be introduced in selected school grades beginning in the 2025&ndash;2026 academic year. A matrix of standards and indicators for AI has been developed for both preparatory and secondary levels, with elements of AI education also incorporated into basic education.
Preparing Teachers and Infrastructure The Minister emphasized that well-trained teachers and specialists are essential to the success of this transformation. Efforts are also underway to strengthen technological infrastructure, including the development of specialized labs, to fully support AI integration into schools.
&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Ministry of Education and Technical Education's official page
&nbsp;

Egypt and Japan Partner to Advance AI and Programming Education

Google has rolled out an exclusive deal for students in Egypt; a free 12-month Gemini Pro Plan. Starting now, anyone aged 18 and above can register before 3rd of November 2025, to unlock the full package. The program is launched in partnership with Egypt&rsquo;s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
What&rsquo;s Included &bull; Gemini 2.5 Pro with unlimited image uploads for homework and writing support &bull; Deep Research tools with custom reports from hundreds of sources &bull; NotebookLM featuring expanded audio and video study overviews &bull; Veo3 for transforming text or photos into short videos &bull; 2 TB of cloud storage across Google Photos, Drive, and Gmail
Why It Matters
With its Guided Learning mode, Gemini Pro becomes more than just a tool; it&rsquo;s a study companion. It can break down math problems, refine essays, assist in test prep, and provide step-by-step guidance. Students can also explore interactive quizzes, images, and videos, while teachers gain access to the same resources for classroom use.
Valued at nearly 7,000 EGP per subscription, the offer debuts in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, with more countries expected soon.
Photo Credit: Flickr&nbsp;

For The First Time: Google Offers Free Gemini Pro for Students in Egypt

Skywatchers in Cairo and across Egypt are set for a rare celestial show tonight as the moon turns a fiery red during a total lunar eclipse. On Sunday, 7th of September 2025, the &ldquo;blood moon&rdquo; will light up the sky for more than five hours; one of the year&rsquo;s most breathtaking astronomical events.
Eclipse Schedule in Egypt
<ul>
<li>7:27 PM &ndash; Partial eclipse begins as Earth&rsquo;s shadow touches the moon.</li>
<li>8:31 PM &ndash; Total eclipse starts; the moon is fully covered.</li>
<li>9:12 PM &ndash; Peak eclipse, with the moon glowing its darkest red.</li>
<li>9:53 PM &ndash; Total eclipse ends as the moon begins to emerge.</li>
<li>10:56 PM &ndash; Partial eclipse ends.</li>
<li>11:55 PM &ndash; Eclipse fully ends as the moon leaves Earth&rsquo;s shadow.</li>
</ul>
Why the Moon Turns Red
A lunar eclipse happens when the sun, Earth, and moon align, and Earth blocks direct sunlight from reaching the moon. Instead, the moon reflects sunlight filtered through Earth&rsquo;s atmosphere. Because the atmosphere scatters blue light and lets red light pass through, the moon takes on a dramatic reddish glow; the same effect that makes sunrises and sunsets look red. Dust or clouds can make the color appear even deeper.
Where to Watch
The eclipse will be visible across Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, and parts of South America. Viewers in North America, however, will only catch partial phases of the event.
Photo Credit: Freepik&nbsp;

Don’t Miss Tonight’s Total Lunar Eclipse Over Egypt

In a rare astronomical phenomenon, Earth is completing its rotation today, Tuesday, 22nd July, in less than 24 hours&mdash;making it the shortest day ever recorded in human history. The planet will spin 1.34 milliseconds faster than the standard 86,400 seconds, surpassing the previous record set just two weeks ago on 9th July.
Although the difference is imperceptible to most, scientists say it reflects a puzzling trend in Earth&rsquo;s rotational behaviour. If this acceleration continues, global timekeepers may need to subtract a second from atomic clocks by 2029&mdash;a historic adjustment known as a &ldquo;negative leap second&rdquo; that has never been implemented before.&nbsp;
Experts remain uncertain about the root cause of the acceleration. Theories range from shifts in the Earth's molten core and melting glaciers to atmospheric changes and a weakening magnetic field. For centuries, the Earth has been gradually slowing due to the moon&rsquo;s tidal pull. But new data from NASA suggest we may have reached a phase of orbital equilibrium, unexpectedly speeding up the planet&rsquo;s rotation.
Geologists and astrophysicists are closely monitoring the development, as it could affect everything from satellite navigation to global timekeeping systems in the near future.

Today Marks the Shortest Day in Recorded Human History

Photo Credit: AI Generated Image Via Freepik
A laptop without a screen sounds like something a bored sci-fi writer would pitch after too many energy drinks. But here it is, not just imagined&mdash;built. A real, functioning device that ghosts the one thing we&rsquo;ve all assumed a laptop needs: the screen.
And the kicker? It kind of works.
The concept flips everything on its head. Instead of a physical display, you get a pair of lightweight glasses that project a curved, panoramic workspace into the air around you. One moment, you&rsquo;re staring at a keyboard. Next, you&rsquo;re immersed in a private, 100-inch digital setup that floats in your vision like a command center only you can see. Spreadsheets over here, Zoom call over there, your cursed to-do list hovering just far enough to ignore.
We&rsquo;ve entered the spatial computing chapter&mdash;where the interface is no longer confined to a slab of glass but extends outward, seamlessly, invisibly.
There&rsquo;s elegance in its logic. No more craning your neck downward. No more squinting at tabs stacked like sardines. No more strangers eavesdropping on your inbox. The screen becomes personal, fluid and (let&rsquo;s be real) kind of magical.
But it&rsquo;s not all stardust and holograms.
Underneath the wow factor is a system still growing into itself. The operating environment leans on streamlined, cloud-first tools. Great for documents, browsing, maybe a few video calls. But don&rsquo;t expect full-fledged desktop muscle. If you&rsquo;re trying to edit a feature film or run simulations, this isn&rsquo;t your ride&mdash;yet.
As for the glasses: surprisingly light, pretty comfortable, prescription-friendly, stylish? Meh. And let&rsquo;s not pretend they&rsquo;re invisible. You will, at best, resemble a time-traveling librarian. People will stare. Deal with it.
Battery life is decent (5-7 Hours)&mdash;enough for a work session, not a marathon. Audio? Functional. Good enough for a call, maybe not your next album listen. But the biggest shift isn&rsquo;t in specs. It&rsquo;s in the mindset.
Because once you remove the screen, you&rsquo;re not just redesigning a device. You&rsquo;re challenging a century of habits. You&rsquo;re saying, &ldquo;What if the display followed me, not the other way around?&rdquo;
And suddenly, your entire environment becomes a workspace. Caf&eacute;s, airports, co-working spaces, your kitchen counter&mdash;no extra monitors, no privacy screens, no weird laptop angles. Just a clean surface, a keyboard and your own private digital expanse.
Will it catch on? Hard to say. It's bold. It's pricey. It's niche. But it also feels like a seed. A prototype of what&rsquo;s coming. Because if a laptop can survive without a screen, what else are we holding onto just because it&rsquo;s always been there?
The future might not be here yet. But this? It&rsquo;s squinting at it, glasses on.

A Screen-less Screen? We're Not In The Future, But It Seems Unreal 

Trends never stop&mdash;whether in fashion, music, or food. The latest fruity obsession is the pink pineapple, a vibrant twist on the classic tropical treat. Celebrities have been quick to join the hype, with music producer Benny Blanco among the first to try it. &ldquo;It smells and looks like a normal pineapple, but inside it&rsquo;s pink,&rdquo; he said, describing the taste as &ldquo;incredible.&rdquo; So what exactly is the pink pineapple and why is everyone talking about it? Here are all the answers you&rsquo;ve been wondering about.
What Is the Pink Pineapple?
The pink pineapple is a rare, pink-fleshed variety of the traditional tropical fruit. It isn&rsquo;t a different species, but rather a genetically modified version that features a soft, pastel-pink interior instead of the usual yellow. Its unique appearance and sweet flavor have made it a must-try novelty in the world of exotic fruits.
How Does It Become Pink?
The pink color comes from lycopene, the same natural pigment found in tomatoes and watermelons. In regular pineapples, lycopene is converted into beta-carotene, which gives them their golden-yellow hue. In pink pineapples, scientists altered the fruit&rsquo;s DNA to turn off the enzyme that performs this conversion, allowing the pink pigment to stay.
Where Is It Grown?
This special variety is grown exclusively in select tropical farms, under carefully controlled conditions. It takes more than two years to cultivate each pineapple, making the process labor-intensive and production limited. That exclusivity plays a big role in its appeal and price.
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@itsbennyblanco/video/7494680912244870443" data-video-id="7494680912244870443">
<section><a title="@itsbennyblanco" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@itsbennyblanco?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@itsbennyblanco</a>
pink pineapple
<a title="♬ Bluest Flame - Selena Gomez &amp; benny blanco" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Bluest-Flame-7484273435515340801?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ Bluest Flame - Selena Gomez &amp; benny blanco</a></section>
</blockquote>
&nbsp;
Why Is It So Expensive?
Pink pineapples are not just rare&mdash;they&rsquo;re also marketed as a luxury fruit. Only limited batches are produced and each fruit is often shipped without its crown to prevent replanting, keeping it exclusive. With elegant packaging and high shipping costs, these pineapples can sell for anywhere from $25 to $50 each.
Is It Safe to Eat?
Yes, pink pineapples are completely safe and approved for consumption. Although they&rsquo;re genetically modified, the changes only involve preserving natural lycopene, which is already found in many healthy fruits. No harmful substances are added and none of the fruit&rsquo;s natural nutrition is lost.
Health Benefits
Pink pineapples aren&rsquo;t just pretty&mdash;they&rsquo;re packed with health benefits:
Rich in Vitamin C: Supports immunity and skin health. High in Antioxidants: Lycopene may reduce cancer and heart disease risk. Aids Digestion: Contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps with digestion and inflammation. Low in Calories: Naturally sweet without the guilt. &nbsp;
The Viral Appeal
Beyond its flavor and health perks, the pink pineapple is a social media sensation. Its pastel color and photogenic charm make it a favorite among influencers, food bloggers and anyone looking for the next Instagram-worthy snack. From celebrity shoutouts to TikTok taste tests, this fruit has quickly become a pop culture favorite.
&nbsp;
Photo Credit: Hippies Happiness page
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The Pink Pineapple: Nature’s Sweetest Trend Taking Over the Internet — and Benny Blanco Approves

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&mdash;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.
&nbsp;

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



Started back in 1999, Hedkandi evolved into a global dance music phenomenon collecting the best funky, happy and disco house music from all over the world, mixed into a 2-hour weekly show hosted by Mark Doyle.

Hedkandi

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.
&nbsp;

Let’s Dance 




Every Thursday from 1 to 3 pm, 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 

Spinning out your favourite classic hits from the 60s to the 90s. Tune in to listen to those good oldies. One great hit after the other from 10:00AM-11:00AM Fridays &amp; Saturdays.&nbsp;

Flash Back

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 



Stuck in traffic? Make the ride fun! Join Zeinab &amp; Sami every Sunday to Thursday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on The Big Drive&mdash;your ultimate afternoon escape on Nile FM! Enjoy the best music, real talk, and nonstop energy to carry you through the week

The Big Drive

Girls Talk is a vibrant, empowering show that creates a safe and relatable space for women&rsquo;s voices, stories, and real-life conversations. Presented in rotation by Nadine, Nancy, and Gaz, the show blends friendship-style chats with honest discussions on relationships, self-care, careers, and pop culture. It invites listeners to join the conversation, share their stories, and connect over experiences that truly resonate.

Girls Talk 

Hip-Hop &amp; RNB 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, Kenzy 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 Live

"Brain Busters" is a 1-hour radio show that&rsquo;ll tickle your curiosity, test your trivia skills, and blow your mind with fresh facts about our fascinating world. Tune in, buckle up, and prepare to get your brain busted!&nbsp;Every Sunday to Thursday from 10 to 11 am.&nbsp;

Brain Busters

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

Mixalicious

AT40 gives you the inside scoop on everything &ldquo;Hollywood&rdquo; as well as counting 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

Your morning commute has never been this fun!
An endlessly entertaining blend of games, news tidbits, and the latest hits, &ldquo;The Morning show&rdquo; 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 Rob &amp; Sally are here to make sure you are fresh and ready to conquer the day!

The Morning Show

Groove Station brings the party straight to your speakers every Thursday night! Join Arrab as he spins the hottest beats and feel-good tracks from around the world, turning your evening into a global dance floor.
Tune in, turn it up, and groove your way into the weekend every Thursday from 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM on 104.2 NileFM.

Groove Station

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

An hour of non-stop feel good anthems to get you pumped for the weekend. Whether you're getting ready for a fun night out or heading home for a cozy night in, this upbeat soundtrack is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Turn up the music and sing along to all your favorite happy tunes, every Thursday from 7 to 8 pm.

Feel Good Thursday

Sit back and enjoy the chilled-out sounds of oriental-inspired music; the perfect setting for an introspective drive in your car, or just an escape from the stress of your day. It's the show that brings a little dose of local flavor and a whole lot of Zen. Don't miss it every Friday from 11 am to 1 pm.&nbsp;

Nile Bazaar

A him and her show where Mickey &amp; Kenzy 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

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