Oscar-nominated Tunisian director Kaouther Ben Hania will premiere her new film The Voice of Hind Rajab at the Venice Film Festival 2025, followed by Toronto. The film, highlighting the Israel–Palestine conflict, also reflects Dubai’s rising role as a hub for global cinema and international storytelling.
Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, one of the Arab world’s most celebrated directors, is set to take the global stage once again with her latest project, The Voice of Hind Rajab. Known for her previous Academy Award–nominated works such as The Man Who Sold His Skin and Four Daughters, Ben Hania’s new film tackles one of the most pressing issues of our time—the Israel–Palestine conflict—through a deeply human lens.
The film is slated to premiere in competition at the Venice Film Festival 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious cinematic events. Following Venice, it will also be screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), expanding its reach to North American audiences.
What makes this project stand out is not just its political and emotional depth, but also its ties to the region, with Dubai playing an important role as a growing hub for international cinema. Industry observers note that Dubai’s increasing involvement in global film productions reflects the emirate’s ambition to become a cultural powerhouse beyond its reputation for luxury and tourism.
Ben Hania’s storytelling is expected to blend her signature style—intimate yet powerful narratives—with cinematic artistry that resonates globally. The Voice of Hind Rajab is anticipated to spark meaningful conversations about conflict, resilience, and humanity, while also reinforcing the Middle East’s rising influence in world cinema.
Film critics and festival-goers are already anticipating strong reviews, with some predicting awards-season buzz similar to Ben Hania’s earlier successes. The dual premieres at Venice and Toronto will provide the film with a global platform, placing Dubai in the limelight as a cultural supporter of groundbreaking cinema.
As Dubai continues to invest in film festivals, production opportunities, and creative partnerships, the city’s presence in international cinema is only expected to grow. Kaouther Ben Hania’s latest work adds momentum to that vision, marking a new milestone for both Arab filmmakers and Dubai’s cultural footprint.
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