The spotlight on Arab creativity continued to grow at the Cannes Film Festival 2026 as the Arab Cinema Center (ACC), in collaboration with Marché du F
The spotlight on Arab creativity continued to grow at the Cannes Film Festival 2026 as the Arab Cinema Center (ACC), in collaboration with Marché du Film, hosted one of the festival’s anticipated industry conversations: Rising Forces: Arab Talent Regionally and Internationally. Held on the Main Stage, the panel brought together influential voices from across the Arab film and entertainment landscape to discuss the evolving presence of Arab talent on both regional and global platforms.
Moderated by Alaa Karkouti, CEO of MAD Solutions and the Arab Cinema Center, the discussion assembled an impressive range of creative figures whose work spans filmmaking, television, music, and performance. Among the speakers were filmmaker and producer Tarek Al Arian, television personality Raya Abirached, music composers Amin Bouhafa and Suad Bushnaq, producer and cinematographer Mostafa El Kashef, and Saudi actress and creative voice Khairiah Abu Laban.
At a time when Arab cinema is increasingly attracting international attention, the panel reflected a broader transformation taking place across the industry. The conversation moved beyond traditional discussions of visibility and focused on the changing realities of artistic identity, global collaboration, and the growing influence of Arab creators in international markets.
Filmmaker and producer Tarek Al Arian represented a generation of creators helping shape a modern Arab entertainment industry capable of competing on a global scale. His presence highlighted the shift toward larger productions and stronger international partnerships, while emphasizing the role of storytelling that remains culturally rooted while reaching wider audiences.
Raya Abirached, a familiar face to international audiences and one of the Arab world’s most recognized media personalities, brought attention to the role of media platforms in connecting artists and audiences across borders. Her career itself reflects the increasingly global presence of Arab voices within the international entertainment landscape.
Music also formed a significant part of the conversation. Internationally acclaimed composers Amin Bouhafa and Suad Bushnaq represented a new generation of Arab musicians whose work increasingly transcends regional boundaries. Their contributions highlighted how film music has become a universal language capable of carrying local stories into global cinematic spaces.
The panel also explored emerging creative voices and the changing ecosystem supporting talent development. Saudi actress Khairiah Abu Laban’s participation reflected the rapid evolution of the Gulf’s entertainment industry, particularly within Saudi Arabia, where significant investments and new opportunities are reshaping the region’s creative future.
More than a discussion about careers or success stories, Rising Forces presented a portrait of an industry undergoing transformation. Arab creators are no longer simply seeking representation on global stages — they are actively helping redefine those stages.
As Cannes 2026 continues to celebrate international cinema, discussions like these reinforce a growing reality: Arab talent is not emerging anymore; it is already becoming a powerful and influential force shaping the future of global storytelling.
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