Latest News from Vogue Arabia

Vogue Arabia
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
First Look: Janhvi Kapoor Makes her Cannes Film Festival Debut
Janhvi is the 28-year-old daughter of Bollywood producer Boney Kapoor and late actress Sridevi. Her sister Khushi Kapoor is also an actress, as is her cousin, Sonam Kapoor. She has appeared in over a dozen films since making her acting debut in 2018, and has also starred on runways for labels like Rahul Mishra, Amit Aggarwal and Kalki at Lakme Fashion Week in India. For her first-ever red carpet look at Cannes, she placed her trust in Tahiliani and her cousin – stylist Rhea Kapoor – to conceptualise the outfit. 'I think she [Rhea] really wanted to bring out a side of me that hasn't been explored much, and focus more on my face and on how she sees me,' Janhvi explains. Making the dress: Tarun Tahiliani Making the dress: Tarun Tahiliani For both of the Kapoors, it was important that Janhvi wear an Indian designer for her first Cannes appearance. 'I really think it's their time to shine. I mean, I've known this for a really long time,' says the actress. 'A lot of the textiles that are put on these international garments, on these international red carpets, on these huge Western actors or huge global stars from all around the world have been textiles that were manufactured and created in India by Indian and craftsmen. So I think it is high time that's put on a global stage and our designers are given the kind of credit that they deserve," she adds, pointing out that the Met Gala last month saw a great turnout of Indian designers, from Sabyasachi to Gaurav Gupta and Prabal Gurung. 'I think I look the best and I feel my most comfortable in Indian clothes. And if I'm being put on a global stage like this, I'd like to feel my most comfortable and confident. So it was honestly a very organic decision for me.' 'Specifically for the film that I've come here with, it was important for me to stay in touch with my roots,' continues Janhvi, who is in Cannes for the premiere of her film, Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan. Also starring Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, it tells the story of two friends from a village in North India who find their friendship impacted when they pursue jobs as police officers. Janhvi says that although the plot is rooted in India, it has global relevance. 'It's a story that I think is the need of the hour. It invites people to introspect at being perpetrators, or at the receiving end of any sort of social exclusion, which I think is a human tragedy that's occurring all around the world in different countries," she shares. "It's an observational piece on different sorts of social hierarchies, and a study of human nature.' This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from. Keeping these themes in mind, she gave Rhea a brief about the film, and expressed the kind of energy she wanted to embody, in terms of being taken 'a little more seriously' for her Cannes debut. And while Janhvi acknowledges that fashion is a massive aspect of the festival, she points out that the event is ultimately about the movies being honoured. 'I really wanted the attention to stay on the fact that we're here representing a film,' she says. 'It's a huge opportunity to even be in the vicinity of so many artists that I admire and look up to, and the fact that our movie is in competition is nerve-wracking, but very exciting. I'm thrilled, and constantly pinching myself.'

Vogue Arabia
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
Everything We Know About The Harry Potter Series—Cast, Crew, Filming and more
This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from. Also part of the cast are John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Perpa Essidou as Severus Snape, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, Luke Tallon as Quirinus Quirrell, and Argus Filch as Paul Whitehouse is set to play Argus Filch. Lithgow, who plays Dumbledore, principal of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, is an Emmy Award winner for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in "The Crown," a Netflix series about the reign of Queen Elizabeth, despite his American origin. He is known as a Tony Award-winning and twice Academy Award-nominated actor. McTeer, who was chosen to play McGonagall, the housemaster of Gryffindor, where Harry and his friends belong, is from England. She was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for "Tumbleweeds" (2000) and Best Supporting Actress for "The Life of Albert" (2012), and has also appeared in TV dramas, including the Emmy Award-winning drama "Welcome to the Ozarks. Essiedu, who was chosen to play Snape, played by Alan Rickman in the film version, is also from England. He was nominated for an Emmy Award for "I MAY DESTROY YOU" and an Academy Award nomination for "The Lazarus Project" and for "Turn Back the Clock, Save the World! for which he received a British Academy Award nomination, and the stage production of "A Doll's House," for which he won a Tony Award and an Olivier Award. What are the chances of the original cast appearing in the drama version of "Harry Potter"? LONDON - OCTOBER 25, 2002: Actors Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint attend a photocall for the movie "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" at the Guildhall October 25, 2002 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by)Daniel Radcliffe seems unlikely to make a cameo appearance. In an interview with " E!" he was asked about appearing in the series, and he replied, "I don't think so. I don't think so. The producers want to make it completely different from the movie version. I don't know if our cameo will have a positive effect. I would like to watch it with you guys too," he replied. Article originally published on Vogue Japan

Vogue Arabia
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
Rising Saudi Models Amira, Taleedah and Zahra Shine Against the Kingdom's Stunning Desert Backdrop
Located along the Red Sea, Desert Rock hotel is a real social media phenomenon, with luxury suites embedded within magnificent rock formations for an experience that feels both luxurious and otherworldly. Walking around, the topography stands as both a gateway to the past, and a portal to the future. Along the shores of the Red Sea, striking black desert sands, rich in volcanic minerals, stand as a testament to the region's unique geology. The sea itself, calm yet ever-rolling, mirrors the quiet power of the landscape. In this place where time stays still, Amira Al Zuhair, Taleedah Tamer, and Zahra Hussain rise as the faces of the future, representing Saudi Arabia on a global fashion scale. They celebrate feminine energy, with a rock-solid foundation. Whether bathed in sunlight or moonlight, this rugged landscape is a runway like no other. Amira Al Zuhair Saudi-French model Amira Al Zuhair made history as one of the first Saudi models to star in Chanel's Métiers d'Art Spring 2022 campaign, and this groundbreaking debut helped cement her place in the international fashion world. She walked exclusively for Alaïa at Paris Fashion Week in 2024 and has also graced the runways for labels like Balmain, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Missoni and more. As the kingdom's creative scene flourishes, Al Zuhair has become her country's ambassador on the international fashion stage – and at home. 'What I love most about my heritage is how deeply-rooted it is in tradition, yet constantly evolving,' she says. 'Shooting in the kingdom has been an incredibly enriching experience. The landscapes are breathtaking, and there's a special kind of pride that comes from sharing this beauty, spirit and cultural richness with the world.' Al Zuhair admires supermodels Naomi Campbell and Gisele Bündchen, and is also deeply inspired by Malala Yousafzai, whose fearless advocacy for women's rights and access to education continues to move her. A former elected member of the UK Youth Parliament, Al Zuhair studied philosophy, politics and economics at King's College London. She is the epitome of brains and beauty, and is excited for what the future holds for her career – and her kingdom. Taleedah Tamer The scent of fresh mint instantly transports Saudi model Taleedah Tamer back to her childhood, which was spent in her hometown, Jeddah. She later moved to Milan for university, balancing schoolwork with castings. Today, her jet-setting life smells like 'airplane air, adventure, and home,' she shares. When Tamer was 17, she made history as the first Saudi model to walk in a Paris Haute Couture show, debuting in the Antonio Grimaldi fall/winter 2018/2019 presentation. Fast forward to 2024 and she made headlines yet again at Riyadh Fashion Week, walking the Hindamme runway with her cousin, pop star Mishaal Tamer. The duo appeared with arms linked, wearing matching T-shirts emblazoned with the statement: 'Saudi Arabia is the future,' designed by Saudi creative Lina Malaika in collaboration with Hindamme's founder, Mohammed Khoja. 'Every day, I feel inspired by those around me who choose to be good and to be their authentic selves,' says Tamer, who enjoys working with fellow models on her home turf. 'The best thing about shooting here is the feeling of support from the community – we're all joined in the same purpose to help develop the industry in our kingdom. It's fun and obviously challenging, but we're all working together really hard to create art.' Zahra Hussain 'Every time I walk into Saudi, I feel an immediate peace – like the country just gives you a hug,' model Zahra Hussain says fondly. She deeply appreciates the capital's hospitality, and how energetic, lively and vibrant it is. 'Moments from working in Saudi have built up to be the best experiences of my life,' shares Hussain, who has walked both seasons of Riyadh Fashion Week. She has also walked for Brunello Cucinelli, in addition to starring in campaigns for Ferragamo, Pomellato and Adidas x KAF by KAF – each highlighting a different facet of her dynamic presence. 'There's so much talent in the fashion industry in Riyadh, and they're paving such a remarkable path for Arabian fashion,' she reflects. As Hussain approaches graduation from the University of Manchester in International Business, Economics and Finance this summer, her focus extends beyond personal achievement – she hopes to to organise a charity fundraiser for girls' education in Afghanistan. Central to her journey is her mother, Riz, who co-owns a pharmaceutical business with Hussain's father. 'I'd be lucky if I even end up half the woman that she is," she says with a smile. With a growing body of work across both runway and editorial, Hussain is quickly proving her versatility and star quality, making waves in the European fashion scene while establishing herself as a standout face to watch in the MENA region and beyond.

Vogue Arabia
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
Cristiano & Georgina: A Timeline of Their Love Story
Skip to main content From a chance meeting in Madrid to raising a family in Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez have built a life shaped by love, loss, and reinvention — all under the world's gaze May 29, 2025 From a Madrid shop floor to building a life in Saudi Arabia, the romance between Georgina Rodríguez and Cristiano Ronaldo has unfolded across cities, cultures, and continents. This is their story — in their own words. Photo: Anadolu (Getty Images) 2016 — A chance encounter in Madrid It all began in a Gucci store. Georgina Rodríguez was working as a sales assistant when she first met Cristiano Ronaldo. 'It was love at first sight,' they've both said. But for Georgina, it went even deeper: 'I remember that when we held hands for the first time, I felt inexplicable peace and energy,' she told Ronaldo in their Vogue Arabia cover conversation. 'It felt like we had known each other all our lives.' Photo: Nicolò Campo (Getty Images) 2017 — A relationship goes public, a family expands They made their first public appearance in January 2017 at The Best FIFA Football Awards, sealing speculation that they were a couple. By November, they welcomed their first child together, Alana Martina. Georgina also embraced a maternal role to Cristiano's three older children. Photo: Valeriano Di Domenico - FIFA (Getty Images) 2018–2020 — Life in Turin, foundations of fame As Ronaldo moved to Juventus in Italy, Georgina quietly built her own identity. From brand appearances to family life, she became an anchor in the footballer's world — and something more. 'Even though some people label me as 'the girlfriend of', I am very proud to be your wife,' she said. 'I have shown through my personality and my strength that I have my own light.' Photo: Europa Press Entertainment (Getty Images) Photo: Tullio M. Puglia (Getty Images) Photo: Daniele Venturelli (Getty Images) 2022 — Love, loss, and legacy In April, the couple shared the devastating news that one of their newborn twins had passed away. Their daughter Bella Esmeralda survived, and the moment marked a turning point in how the world saw them — not just as celebrities, but as humans. That same year, Georgina released her Netflix documentary I Am Georgina , opening up her world to fans: 'It gave me the opportunity to show the real 'me',' she said. 'It's been the most important and large-scale project that I've done so far.' Photo: Yasser Bakhsh (Getty Images) Photo: FAYEZ NURELDINE (Getty Images) Photo: Khalid Alhaj/MB Media (Getty Images) 2023 — A new life in Saudi Arabia Following Ronaldo's move to Al Nassr FC, the couple relocated to Riyadh, ushering in a new chapter personally and professionally. 'Saudi Arabia is a country that has welcomed us with much love,' Georgina said. 'It's also a very family-oriented country, and I only have good words and gratitude.'

Vogue Arabia
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
Editor's Letter: Celebrating Saudi Women, Creativity, and Cultural Evolution
Welcome to our annual Saudi issue, a themed edition of Vogue Arabia that pays homage to the Kingdom. If you might recall, our inaugural issue was published in June 2018, the month that women were allowed to start driving. Our cover – featuring HRH Princess Hayfa bint Abdullah Al Saud behind the wheel of a red convertible in the desert of Jeddah – was talked about globally, and it is still a favourite of mine. But so many things have changed since then… Saudi Arabia has done an incredible job in establishing its creative industries, and supporting art and fashion. While doing so, new policies and changes in mentalities have finally placed women at the centre of this cultural zeitgeist. I recently heard an impressive intervention by HRH Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, the Saudi ambassador to the United States, that I believe sums it up perfectly: 'The women of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we're not tokens. We're not boxes to tick. We're women who are dedicated to the development, not just of our country, but of our families, and our neighbourhoods. And if we thrive, ladies and gentlemen, I promise you the women of the world thrive, because we all deserve the path forward.' With a country bursting with talent – and spectacular landscapes – putting together this issue was an exciting creative challenge. We started at the Red Sea, against the scenic beauty of the Desert Rock Resort, where we profiled three young Saudi models taking Arab beauty to international runways. In Taif, we met Nora Alharthi, the female entrepreneur breaking glass ceilings and establishing her business in the male-dominated world of the rose industry. In Riyadh, we caught up with fashion designer Ahmed Hassan, cofounder of KML, one of the semi-finalists for the world-renowned LVMH Prize. And, we stopped by London to photograph the latest pre-fall trends on DJ Nooriyah, whose accolades include a historical performance at Glastonbury. Although I still remember visiting Saudi years back when the country didn't offer tourist visas, things now have changed drastically, with the Kingdom eager to welcome guests and proudly display its legacy and history. Personally, I was always greeted with a smile, as Saudis are known for their generous hospitality. Surely, this was the same level of welcome experienced by Georgina Rodríguez and Cristiano Ronaldo, the country's news-making residents. For our cover story, we joined Rodríguez as she got ready for her first-ever Met Gala in New York City, and invited football's biggest icon to conduct the intimate interview. Between coffee and hairspray, they discuss family life and the pros and cons of being in the spotlight, and look back at two eventful years of living in the Kingdom. I hope you enjoy reading.