CAREER HIGHLIGHT(S):
Aliaa is a trailblazer in entertainment law and business affairs in the MENA region. As one of the first professionals to specialize in this area, she has played a transformative role in shaping the legal and business frameworks that support the region’s creative industries, and representing some of the biggest talents, producers, and distributers in the region. Her journey began in 2011 when she was appointed as the head of the Legal Department and Film Finance Arm at the Dubai International Film Festival for seven years. In 2018, she spearheaded the creation of Cairo Industry Days at the Cairo International Film Festival, which has since become a cornerstone for the industry’s business and affairs ecosystem.

TWELVE-MONTH HIGHLIGHT(S):
Supporting International Productions on the Ground: She has actively supported the entry of several international studios and production companies into the MENA region, with a particular focus on Egypt. Her practical understanding of the region’s legal and operational production landscape has made her a valuable advisor in facilitating smooth and compliant production setups. In 2024 and 2025, she worked with global studios and producers to help navigate local regulations, contracts, and logistics, providing the necessary groundwork for successful on-the-ground execution.
First of its Kind Award: Beyond her advisory role, Aliaa has actively championed initiatives that elevate the business and legal affairs profession within the entertainment sector. At the fourth RSIFF, she introduced a groundbreaking Business and Legal Affairs Award — the first of its kind at a festival co-production market — that empowers filmmakers with the legal and commercial knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of international production and distribution.