Aswan International Women’s Film Festival Pays Tribute to Umm Kulthum
As part of Egypt’s ‘Year of Umm Kulthum’ celebrations, the AIWFF will honour the legendary singer’s enduring impact.
The Aswan International Women’s Film Festival (AIWFF) has announced that its ninth edition, set to run from May 2nd to 7th, will pay tribute to legendary Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum, whose voice and cultural legacy continue to define Arab music. The tribute aligns with the Ministry of Culture’s nationwide designation of 2025 as ‘The Year of Umm Kulthum’, honouring her enduring influence across generations. This year’s AIWFF poster features a stylised portrait of the iconic vocalist, designed by Egyptian visual artist Hisham Ali, who is known for creating signature poster art for prominent cultural events and festivals. The design draws from Umm Kulthum’s signature aesthetic—complete with her iconic sunglasses and scarf—while connecting it to the visual language of contemporary cinema. The AIWFF has steadily grown into one of Egypt’s most prominent platforms for celebrating women's contributions to cinema, especially in Upper Egypt. Alongside screenings, panel discussions, and competitions focused on women’s narratives, this year’s edition is expected to feature programming connected to Umm Kulthum’s legacy—including special screenings, musical homages, and exhibitions. This tribute adds another layer to the Ministry of Culture’s broader national campaign celebrating Umm Kulthum throughout 2025, with concerts, museum exhibitions, and educational events taking place across the country.
