Casablanca Arab Film Festival Kicks Off with Tributes to Ahmed Helmy, Younes Megri

Casablanca just rolled out the red carpet for Arab cinema and its brightest stars.

Fez– The red carpet rolled out in Casablanca on Friday night as the sixth edition of the Casablanca Arab Film Festival officially opened, blending cinematic glamour with heartfelt tributes and an unmistakably Arab cultural spirit.

Egyptian star Ahmed Helmy and Moroccan icon Younes Megri were the guests of honor this year, celebrated for their rich artistic journeys and influential roles in shaping Arab cinema.

Running until June 20, this year’s edition brings together 31 films from 13 Arab countries, making Casablanca, once again, a buzzing hub for filmmakers, storytellers, and cinephiles from across the region.

It’s not just a screening marathon, it’s a meeting point. A place where Arab creators come to share, exchange, and spotlight stories that speak to who we are.

For Helmy, the recognition hit home. “Every artist is moved by a tribute like this,” he said with genuine emotion.

“But being in Morocco feels special, I feel like I’m among my own people. Moroccans truly love art and artists.”

His love for the country was palpable, echoing a common sentiment among many Egyptian actors who have long found a second home in Morocco’s warm, cinema-loving culture.

Also spotted on the opening night was Sherry Adel, serving on the short films jury.

The Egyptian actress shared her excitement about being part of this edition, expressing her deep personal connection with Morocco and its people.

But this festival isn’t just about red carpets and applause. It’s actively nurturing the next wave of talent.

Through hands-on workshops in screenwriting and filmmaking, the festival is reaching out to students and emerging creatives eager to dive into the industry.

Alongside these sessions are panel discussions and public meetups with filmmakers and critics, conversations designed to stir reflection on pressing issues like identity, art, and representation in the Arab world.

The spirit of the Casablanca Arab Film Festival is deeply rooted in supporting young talent and fostering collaboration among Arab creatives.

It’s not just about watching films, it’s about building bridges between artists from different corners of the region and giving them a stage to debut new work.

Many of the films this year, narrative features and documentaries alike, are having their Moroccan premieres, adding extra buzz to the screenings.

Now in its sixth year, the festival has carved out a reputation as one of the most dynamic and inclusive platforms for Arab cinema.

It’s an annual celebration that not only honors legends but also amplifies fresh voices, sparking meaningful dialogue about where Arab cinema is headed.

Casablanca shows that the Arab film scene is alive, diverse, and ready to take center stage on its own terms.