In the ever-evolving landscape of Middle Eastern cinema, Nayla Al Khaja stands as a true pioneer—a trailblazer whose voice has shaped the contours of Emirati storytelling both at home and abroad.
As the UAE’s first female filmmaker, she has broken through cultural and industry barriers to bring complex, emotionally resonant narratives to life on screen. Over nearly two decades, Al Khaja’s work has consistently pushed boundaries, tackling themes often left unspoken and shining a light on the human stories tucked within the fabric of Gulf society.
In 2025, she returns to the spotlight with renewed energy. Her last feature film, Three, has earned critical acclaim on the international circuit, cementing her reputation as a bold, uncompromising storyteller with a global vision. As she embarks on a new wave of projects—each more ambitious than the last—Al Khaja remains committed to nurturing the region’s next generation of filmmakers, while continuing to challenge cinematic norms.
We sit down with Al Khaja to talk about her creative process, her upcoming project BAAB, the shifting dynamics of Arab cinema, and why storytelling matters.
Tell us how you fell in love with film and what it means to you today.
My love for film began as a child, and I was fascinated by storytelling. I was drawn to cinema’s ability to transport, challenge, and evoke deep emotions. Growing up, I rarely saw Emirati stories on screen, which fuelled my desire to fill that gap. Today, film is my voice, my passion, and my tool for change. It’s how I push boundaries, challenge narratives, and bring unheard stories to life.
You released your debut feature film last year – tell us about the reaction.
The reaction to “Three” was overwhelming. Being the first Emirati psychological drama film to reach international audiences was a milestone. The film’s cultural depth, psychological tension, and exploration of mental health resonated with viewers beyond the region. Seeing the film spark conversations, especially about the intersection of belief and science, was incredibly rewarding.
What would you like to do next in your journey?
I want to keep pushing the boundaries of Emirati cinema. My next step is BAAB, a dark fantasy psychological drama that fuses Emirati folklore with intense, character-driven storytelling. I also want to expand into TV series and international collaborations, ensuring that Middle Eastern narratives find their place on the global stage.
You have seen the industry in the UAE develop over the last few years. What are your thoughts on where it is now and where it’s heading?
The UAE’s film industry has grown exponentially. We have gone from barely having a filmmaking infrastructure to attracting international productions and developing homegrown talent. However, we still need more investment in original storytelling, stronger support for local filmmakers, and international partnerships. The industry is heading in the right direction, but now is the time to solidify a distinct Emirati cinematic voice.
As a filmmaker, how do you feel you have evolved?
I have evolved by becoming bolder with my storytelling. I have moved from short-form narratives to tackling feature-length, high-concept stories, exploring more complex themes, and refining my visual language. I have also learned to balance artistic vision with commercial viability, ensuring my films resonate both emotionally and commercially.
On a global level, how do you think perceptions of the industry have changed?
There has been a shift toward inclusivity and diverse storytelling. Audiences now crave authentic voices and underrepresented narratives, which gives non-Western filmmakers a bigger platform. Streaming platforms have also opened doors for global content, allowing films from the Middle East to reach audiences like never before.
What more would you like to see being done to support aspiring filmmakers?
I would love to see more funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and industry workshops. Filmmakers need access to global networks, co-productions, and grants that support creative risk-taking. Also, distribution support is crucial; it’s not enough to make great films; they need to be seen.
What’s the biggest challenge you face, and how do you overcome that?
The biggest challenge is securing funding for high-concept films while retaining creative control. I overcome it by strategic pitching, building strong industry relationships, and proving the commercial viability of my projects. It is about finding the right partners who believe in the vision.
Can you tell us about the casting of characters in your movies and how you select the talent you want to work with?
Casting is one of the most critical aspects of my films. I look for actors who bring raw emotional depth and cultural authenticity to their roles. I also work with dialect coaches and acting mentors, ensuring that performances feel genuine and immersive.
What kind of genre haven’t you worked on yet, and what would you still love to create?
As a person who is producing and directing dark fantasy and horror, I would love to explore dark satire/comedy, a genre that is still being discovered in Middle Eastern cinema. I envision a film that combines Emirati heritage with comedic storytelling, creating a visually striking, high-concept narrative.
What is your biggest achievement so far, and what would you still like to achieve?
My biggest achievement is breaking barriers as the UAE’s first female film director and bringing Emirati cinema to international audiences, moving away from short form to feature films. But I am just getting started. I want to see one of my films compete at the Cannes Film Festival, to be released internationally at the Academy Awards and to be a key player in the global film industry.
What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers?
Don’t wait for permission. The industry is tough, but relentlessness, resilience, and originality will set you apart. Learn every aspect of filmmaking, take risks, and tell the stories only you can tell.
What is the dream film you would still like to make?
My dream film would be a dark, epic drama set in 1921, centred around a devastating contagion triggered by acid rain, where the struggle for survival and the pursuit of love lie at the heart of the narrative.
What else is in the pipeline for 2025?
BAAB is my main focus. It is my biggest and most ambitious project yet.
Credits:
Founder/Editor in Chief: Lara Mansour
Fashion Director : Lindsay Judge
Styling Assistant: Lea Naoufal
Photography: Ziga Mihelcic
Hair and makeup: Lina Dahlbek
Location: Four Seasons Hotel Dubai
