Nahla Al Fahad’s new documentary promises to be a groundbreaking project that connects the struggles of fisherwomen in the Indian Ocean with universal themes of resilience and empowerment. Her journey once again confirms her position as one of the Middle East’s most daring and influential filmmakers.
On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, while many celebrated with corporate events and speeches, award-winning Emirati filmmaker Nahla Al Fahad chose to be on the frontline of storytelling. The Oscar-nominated director is currently in the Indian Ocean, capturing the powerful and emotional lives of fisherwomen who brave harsh seas and societal challenges to provide for their families.
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Instead of being in Dubai at a formal ceremony, Al Fahad shared an update directly from the field. She expressed her astonishment at the project’s direction:
“Who would believe that I’m now in the south of India, filming women in their houses and boats in the middle of the ocean?”
Her upcoming feature documentary highlights women from India and Sri Lanka, whose livelihoods depend on fishing. It sheds light on their strength, sacrifices, and resilience in a profession dominated by men.
One of the most moving accounts captured during filming is of a mother who lost her son to the sea in 2017. Despite the tragedy, she continues to go fishing every day, determined to give her other children a better future and an opportunity for higher education. Such narratives underline the courage of women who are often overlooked in coastal communities.
Al Fahad sees herself reflected in these fisherwomen. As a filmmaker working in a largely male-driven industry, she relates to the challenges of proving one’s worth in tough conditions.
“People always ask me, why make movies in a field ruled by men? But we’re strong enough to make our way because we’re passionate,” she explained.
This connection strengthens the authenticity of her storytelling, positioning her not just as an observer, but as someone who deeply understands what it means to carve out space against the odds.
The documentary is co-directed by Jibin Jose and supported by a skilled crew. Notably, Sunil KS, cinematographer of the acclaimed film Aadujeevitham, is behind the lens. Rajesh James serves as creative director, while Sarinlal leads production. This international collaboration is set to bring a visually powerful and emotionally stirring film to global audiences.
Nahla Al Fahad is no stranger to impactful cinema. Her earlier documentary “Hijab” was shortlisted for the Oscars and gained international recognition for its bold and sensitive storytelling. She is known for staying away from superficial glamour and instead focusing on real, human-centric stories that reveal hidden narratives from the Arab world and beyond.
“Women’s Day is every day,” Al Fahad emphasized, highlighting that stories of courage, like those of the fisherwomen, deserve recognition all year round—not just on symbolic occasions.
By venturing into the untold lives of fisherwomen, Al Fahad not only amplifies women’s voices from marginalized communities but also reinforces the idea that cinema can be a tool for empowerment. Her work is expected to resonate strongly at international festivals and among audiences who value raw, authentic storytelling.
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