Hend Sabri

Rita Ora photographed by Jeremy Cho for Vogue Arabia February 2022
The February 2022 issue of Vogue Arabia features cover star Rita Ora in conversation with Donatella Versace. The two icons reveal a mutual soft power and their desire to devote their platform to the service of the less fortunate.
Singer-songwriter, actor, philanthropist Rita Ora is a 21st century self-made superstar. In conversation with Italian designer Donatella Versace, the two icons divulge on their coming of age and living their passions with purpose. “Breaking into the industry was difficult,” she admits. “It took a lot of discipline and faith in myself to feel confident that this was the right path for me,” reflects Ora. “The best advice I can give young girls is to always believe in yourself and the vision you have for your art, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve your dreams,” says Ora who started out life as a refugee and went on to see her first record debut at #1 on the UK charts, certifying platinum.
Rita Ora with Donatella Versace. Photo: Getty
Donatella Versace took the reins at the house of Versace following the shock death of her brother Gianni in 1997. Today, Versace is as much a favorite of stars—Angelina Jolie, Zendaya, Dua Lipa, and Lady Gaga, to name a few—as it was during the years of its founder. “There was a moment when being ‘Donatella Versace’ was not easy,” admits the designer. “I was suffering from a great loss. I was put in a position I knew I had to take, but I was not ready to do so because all I wanted was to be by myself and hide from the world—or when I was in a room full of men who dismissed my ideas even before I had the chance to explain myself. Those years were hard, but I have learned a lot as well. They made me stronger because there is one thing I will never do: give up.”
The February issue spotlights rising talent 22-year-old Tunisian actress Sonia Ammar who stars in the Scream 5 franchise. A model, who has posed for Miu Miu and Chanel, Ammar speaks of her breakout film role and creating lasting friendships with the star-studded cast. “They made us feel a part of the family,” she reflects. “David Arquette, for instance, is a really great painter. He did a painting class with the whole cast off-set. Courtney Cox had us over for a BBQ at her house. Neve Campbell invited us over on the beach where she was staying.” On set, their words encouraged her to “enjoy the process,” a notion she carried throughout filming. “I have so many things I want to do,” Ammar shares with Vogue Arabia. Currently graduating from Berkeley’s School of Music, Ammar hints at aspirations of becoming a film composer. “Society often tells you that you can only focus on one thing, especially as a woman. But I really believe there is a world where you can be multifaceted. Where you can have all those passions meet in the middle. That’s what I’m looking for.”
Tunisian actress Hend Sabri divulges on her evolving role as the divorced protagonist of Netflix’s Finding Ola. The lead actress is now the show’s executive producer. “My view is that there are not enough complex stories about women in our region. A story that is worth telling, with no lies and no taboos. We should open more spaces for women to be writers,” considers Sabri. “My view is that there are not enough women’s narratives. It’s really rare to find, even for me as an actress, to find a part that is complex, interesting, and also useful to talk about. We should open more spaces for women to narrate their own stories.”
The issue’s acting highlights continues East to spotlight Saudi actress Sumayah Rida, who divulges on her latest movie Rupture; the film won Best Saudi Film Award at the recent Red Sea International Film Festival. “In this film, I’ve had the chance to portray so much of what we, as women, go through,” she says. Considering her role her most important to date, she explains that one of its core themes looks into the concept of social pressure and how her character stands up for what she believes in. “Our aim as filmmakers is to produce a movie that pivots a transformation in the Saudi film scene,” she remarks. “I am really interested in presenting the true image of Muslim Saudi women, which is in my opinion still misrepresented to the world. We, as Saudi women, are very intelligent, sophisticated, and educated. Our voice is heard inside our homes and within our families, I want my roles to channel this reality. I wouldn’t really accept any roles that are misrepresenting my religion, country, or Saudi women in general. Talent alone is not enough. We all need to keep working, learning, and evolving.”
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Hend Sabri in a black Gucci dress. Photo: Instagram.com/hendsabri
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again—nothing beats the timeless charm of a little black dress. And it looks like Hend Sabry agrees. Yesterday, the Tunisian star took to Instagram to share a noteworthy outfit: a not-so-basic LBD that proves that it’s always a good idea to reinvent one’s classics. Sabry was seen in an ebony Gucci dress with sheer detailing along the neckline and sleeves, and the most interesting accents. Scroll to check out her full ensemble.

Hend Sabry complemented her Gucci dress with a classic beauty look
Featuring a sharp white collar and matching white cuffs, Hend Sabry’s Gucci dress gave the basic LBD a preppy spin. The outfit also featured chunky gold buttons on the cuffs that stood out against the classic palette of  the dress. For her picture-perfect shots, the actor decided to pair her ensemble with an equally fail-safe beauty look. Sabry opted for matte crimson lips and sharp black winged liner, completing the combination with contoured cheekbones and a super sleek low ponytail with a side parting. As for accessories, the actor opted for another timeless piece—pearl stud earrings—and a selection of delicate rings. Strappy black heels from Aquazzura added the perfect finishing touch.
If you’re a fan of neutral hues, classic cuts and investment-worthy outfits, a semi-sheer black dress like Hend Sabry’s Gucci pick is one you need to bookmark. While you can style it just the way she did for a formal event, you can also spruce things up with a pair of statement heels in a bold shade every now and then.
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Hend Sabri wearing Fawaz Gruosi jewelry. Photo: Courtesy Fawaz Gruosi
When Egyptian star Youssra and renowned jewelry designer Fawaz Gruosi stepped out on the red carpet at the Red Sea International Film Festival, it was only fair for the duo to mark the moment of sophistication, elegance, and luxury. Youssra, wearing a white gold necklace set with diamonds, rubies and turquoise drops, shone as brightly as her jewelry set next to Gruosi, who partnered up with the film festival to drape some of its most stunning visitors in his unique creations.

Counting the likes of Sharon Stone among his celebrity loyalists, Gruosi worked closely with Hend Sabri, Irina Shayk, Shanina Shaik, and Candice Swanepoel to bring together the jewelry pieces that worked best with their ensembles for the opening night of the Red Sea Film Festival. And his efforts paid off—As Sabri walked the red carpet in an off-white long sleeve dress distinguished by its simplicity, her neck dazzled with an emerald choker that almost perfectly demonstrated “the Fawaz Gruosi brand coming to life when it is matched with the perfect woman.” In fact, each woman who was seen in Gruosi’s creations that evening seemed to create a moment of magic in Jeddah, proving that no one can do what he does. “For me, it’s not about who I would like to see wearing my pieces, it’s about the women wanting to wear them. If they are drawn to a Fawaz Gruosi design, we would always want to see how we could build that relationship,” the icon shares with Vogue Arabia in a special interview. “I am incredibly lucky to work with some of the world’s most precious gems; and to design and craft them into beautiful pieces that bring real joy to my clients. My team have been with me for many years, and we have taken great pride in crafting a business that is reflective of our values.”
Sharon Stone wearing Fawaz Gruosi at the ‘No Time To Die’ premiere in 2021. Photo: Courtesy Fawaz Gruosi
Fawaz Gruosi’s Lebanese background shines through his bold compositions, often inspired by the Arab aesthetic. “Our Colorissima Collection channels the magic of color that you find across the Gulf, and I often think the Amber Collection is very reminiscent of the color tones of agarwood, which is, of course where the Gulf’s favourite scent, oud, comes from,” Gruosi explains. And when it was time for the Red Sea Film Festival to finally light up the city of Jeddah, the jewelry mogul couldn’t resist becoming a part of the journey. “Film and cinema have always been the home of truly glamorous women, and with the huge changes that have come in Saudi Arabia in the past few years, it felt right to be bringing together the Fawaz Gruosi brand with the RSIFF. It has truly been a joy to be in the Kingdom after all these years, and to see the women looking so fantastic in their gowns and their jewels on the red carpet. This was on a parallel with the other fabulous film festivals around the world such as Cannes or Venice.”
Candice Swanepoel wearing Fawaz Gruosi jewelry. Photo: Courtesy Fawaz Gruosi
But what of the women who don’t live their lives at film festivals, but love a little glamour nonetheless? With the holiday season slowly approaching, Gruosi advises women interested in becoming a part of the Fawaz Gruosi family to make their jewel choices wisely. “I believe earrings a great place to start as they frame the face and can be worn to any event when you want to sparkle. Of course, a matching necklace or bracelet always elevates the look!” he shares. And for investment pieces, his advice couldn’t be simpler. “First of all, think long-term. This is a serious investment, so you want to be as happy in ten years’ time as you are the day you buy. Secondly, work with your jeweler. At Fawaz Gruosi, we have our fabulous collections but there is nothing I like more than working directly with a client to create something bespoke. Finally, be bold with your jewel choices. There are so many options to play with, from different cuts of emeralds to unusual stones such as tsavorite and onyx. I also love to use different materials such as black ceramic. There’s a whole world to choices to be explored, so be brave!”
Shanina Shaik wearing Fawaz Gruosi jewelry. Photo: Courtesy Fawaz Gruosi
Tina Kunakey wearing Fawaz Gruosi jewelry. Photo: Courtesy Fawaz Gruosi
Mayssa Maghrebi wearing Fawaz Gruosi jewelry. Photo: Courtesy Fawaz Gruosi
Irina Shayk wearing Fawaz Gruosi jewelry. Photo: Courtesy Fawaz Gruosi
Fawaz Gruosi. Photo: Damian Foxe
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Hend Sabri. Photo: Amina Zaher
Saudi Arabia‘s historic Al-Balad lit up on the evening of December 6 as some of the world’s biggest stars descended in Jeddah for the Kingdom’s first international film festival. The Red Sea International Film Festival‘s opening night was cause for celebration not only for the Middle East’s proud actors and filmmakers, but also global talents who joined in to spotlight the many achievements of Arab cinema. Showing their support, in attendance were Marvel star Anthony Mackie, English actor Clive Owen, American actor Hilary Swank, and Italian actor Michele Morrone. Internationally-followed models Candice Swanepoel, Alessandra Ambrosio, Irina Shayk, Shanina Shaik, and Sara Sampaio also made glamorous attendees, with some donning Arab designers. While Sampaio and Shaik chose shimmering pieces from Lebanese couturier—and Ball of Arabia 2021 co-chair—Zuhair Murad, Ambrosio opted for a white number by Georges Hobeika with a thigh-high slit.
The Arab world’s stars, of course, made sure to match the energy of the historic ceremony dressed in creations by regional designers. Jury member Hend Sabri championed Saudi talent in a bespoke off-white pleated gown by Honayda. Actors Razane Jammal and Tara Emad opted for flowing silhouettes by Lebanese label Harithand, while couturier Georges Hobeika’s head-turning pieces were worn by Saba Mubarak and Rym Saidi. As for iconic actors Yousra and Lebleba, delicate violet gowns doused in embellishment were the order for the day.
It’s safe to say, however, that saturated hues ruled the red carpet last evening. While Mila Al Zahrani opted for a royal blue tulle number, Mahira Abdelaziz chatted with Vogue Arabia in a draped orange Tony Ward, and Saudi actor Ahd Kamel went the emerald route in Jeddah-based Saudi designer Ruba Bahareth. Among the most interesting looks from the evening was Karen Wazen’s sharp black pantsuit, proof that power dressing never fails.
As the evening progressed, guests were treated to a theatrical dance performance that marked the opening of the 10-day festival at the Red Sea Gala Theatre, and also witnessed an award ceremony, where three inspiring women were honored: Egyptian actress Laila Elwi, who has often been admired for her bold choice of roles, French actress, singer, model, and producer Catherine Deneuve, and Saudi filmmaker Haifaa Al Mansour, who shared a heartfelt speech. Below, we take you through some of the best red carpet moments from the Red Sea International Film Festival.
Rym Saidi in Georges Hobeika and Chopard. Photo: Amina Zaher
Saba Mubarak in Georges Hobeika. Photo: Amina Zaher
Shanina Shaik in Zuhair Murad. Photo: Amina Zaher
Lebleba. Photo: Amina Zaher
Ahd Kamel in Ruba Bahareth. Photo: Amina Zaher
Alessandra Ambrosio in Zuhair Murad. Photo: Amina Zaher
Ali Al Sharif. Photo: Amina Zaher
Elham Shahin in Heba Edris. Photo: Amina Zaher
Hend Sabri in Honayda and Fawaz Gruosi. Photo: Amina Zaher
Irina Shayk. Photo: Amina Zaher
Khairiah in Rubaiyat. Photo: Amina Zaher
Razane Jammal in Harithand. Photo: Amina Zaher
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Junior Fashion Editor: Mohammad Hazem RezqCreative producer: Ankita Chandra Local production: Basamat Arabia

Hend Sabry. Photo: Amina Zaher
Saudi Arabia‘s historic Al-Balad lit up on the evening of December 6 as some of the world’s biggest stars descended in Jeddah for the Kingdom’s first international film festival. The Red Sea International Film Festival‘s opening night was cause for celebration not only for the Middle East’s proud actors and filmmakers, but also global talents who joined in to spotlight the many achievements of Arab cinema. Showing their support, in attendance were Marvel star Anthony Mackie, English actor Clive Owen, American actor Hilary Swank, and Italian actor Michele Morrone. Internationally-followed models Candice Swanepoel, Alessandra Ambrosio, Irina Shayk, Shanina Shaik, and Sara Sampaio also made glamorous attendees, with some donning Arab designers. While Sampaio and Shaik chose shimmering pieces from Lebanese couturier—and Ball of Arabia 2021 co-chair—Zuhair Murad, Ambrosio opted for a white number by Georges Hobeika with a thigh-high slit.
The Arab world’s stars, of course, made sure to match the energy of the historic ceremony dressed in creations by regional designers. Jury member Hend Sabry championed Saudi talent in a bespoke off-white pleated gown by Honayda. Actors Razane Jammal and Tara Emad opted for flowing silhouettes by Lebanese label Harithand, while couturier Georges Hobeika’s head-turning pieces were worn by Saba Mubarak and Rym Saidi. As for iconic actors Yousra and Lebleba, delicate violet gowns doused in embellishment were the order for the day.
It’s safe to say, however, that saturated hues ruled the red carpet last evening. While Mila Al Zahrani opted for a royal blue tulle number, Mahira Abdelaziz chatted with Vogue Arabia in a draped orange Tony Ward, and Saudi actor Ahd Kamel went the emerald route in Jeddah-based Saudi designer Ruba Bahareth. Among the most interesting looks from the evening was Karen Wazen’s sharp black pantsuit, proof that power dressing never fails.
As the evening progressed, guests were treated to a theatrical dance performance that marked the opening of the 10-day festival at the Red Sea Gala Theatre, and also witnessed an award ceremony, where three inspiring women were honored: Egyptian actress Laila Elwi, who has often been admired for her bold choice of roles, French actress, singer, model, and producer Catherine Deneuve, and Saudi filmmaker Haifaa Al Mansour, who shared a heartfelt speech. Below, we take you through some of the best red carpet moments from the Red Sea International Film Festival.
Rym Saidi in Georges Hobeika and Chopard. Photo: Amina Zaher
Saba Mubarak in Georges Hobeika. Photo: Amina Zaher
Shanina Shaik in Zuhair Murad. Photo: Amina Zaher
Lebleba. Photo: Amina Zaher
Sara Sampaio. Photo: Amina Zaher
Tara Emad in Harithand. Photo: Amina Zaher
Ahd Kamel in Ruba Bahareth. Photo: Amina Zaher
Alessandra Ambrosio in Zuhair Murad. Photo: Amina Zaher
Karen Wazen and Elias Bakhazi. Photo: Amina Zaher
Ali Al Sharif. Photo: Amina Zaher
Elham Shahin in Heba Edris. Photo: Amina Zaher
Hend Sabry in Honayda and Fawaz Gruosi. Photo: Amina Zaher
Irina Shayk. Photo: Amina Zaher
Khairiah in Rubaiyat. Photo: Amina Zaher
Razane Jammal in Harithand. Photo: Amina Zaher
Read Next: This Fashion Sustainability Event in Saudi Arabia Encourages Guests To Swap Designer Clothing
Junior Fashion Editor: Mohammad Hazem RezqCreative producer: Ankita Chandra Local production: Basamat Arabia

On Sunday night, Egypt hosted one of the most monumental parades celebrating the relocation of Egyptian royal mummies from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo’s Tahrir to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Fustat (NMEC). Dubbed the Pharaohs’ Golden Parade, the event was adorned with references to ancient Egyptian culture, from the outfits worn by Arab celebrities and performers to the music.
Actor Youssra channeled Egyptian royalty in a white gown with blue accents from Tony Ward’s fall 15-16 couture collection and golden jewelry including earrings by Dima jewelry and a headpiece. In the video showcased at the parade documenting the event’s historical importance, Cairo-based Tunisian actor Hend Sabri made an appearance in a teal and gold Marmar Halim dress while Egyptian actor Nelly Karim wore a white and gold gown by Nour Azazy that featured a sweeping train. Other participating celebrities included Egyptian actor Mona Zaki who wore a royal blue dress paired with a statement necklace and Nardine Farag who was dressed in a red jumpsuit from Zuhair Murad’s SS20 collection inspired by Egypt.
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Somali-American model Halima Aden photographed by Matthias Vriens for Etro’s Pegasus Club Campaign. Photo: Courtesy of Etro

Etro has unveiled its latest campaign and it features some very special stars, notably Somali-American model Halima Aden and Tunisian actor Hend Sabri.
The Italian label chose Aden and Sabri to star among the diverse line-up for its new Pegasus Club Campaign. Aden and Sabri join models Alton Mason, Elsa Hosk, actor Hikari Mori, rapper Myss Keta, Italian fashion expert Anna Dello Russo, and Spanish socialite Naty Abascal for the campaign which celebrates Etro’s Pegaso bag, which debuted in the brand’s Fall 2020 runway show this year.
Tunisian actor Hend Sabri photographed by Matthias Vriens for Etro’s Pegasus Club Campaign. Photo: Courtesy of Etro

The Pegaso cross-body bag is a re-imagined design of a style dating back to the 80s, with its name derived from the winged stallion of Greek mythology, an image that has been synonymous with the brand since 1968. Shot by Dutch photographer Matthias Vriens, the images show the iconic Pegaso bag in two different sizes and versions with a glossy finish in black, red, yellow, and electric blue colors. Vogue Arabia’s Diversity Editor-at-Large, Aden, can be seen modeling the glossy red style, while Vogue Arabia’s September 2020 cover star Sabri is seen holding the blue colorway.
23-year-old Aden is one of the most sought-after models in the fashion world. The former Vogue Arabia cover star was the first model to wear a hijab on international runways in 2016, and the first hijab-wearing woman to be featured on the cover of Vogue. The model and activist, who grew up in a Kenyan refugee camp, has recently celebrated buying her first home, in Minnesota in the US.

Both Aden and Sabri are formidable women in their respective fields, with the Tunisian actor being one of the most in-demand actors in the region. The Egypt-based actor has been a longtime champion of female empowerment in the Arab world, both on and off-screen, often portraying roles that reveal the overlooked complexities of Arab women. Furthering her commitment to inspiring young, regional creatives, Sabri was recently named as the head of the jury panel for a filmmaking challenge to encourage young filmmakers from Saudi Arabia to produce new work.
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