Exclusive: Behind the Scenes of Acclaimed Saudi Film ‘Hajjan’

Ahead of its Arab world premiere at the Red Sea International Film Festival, we got an exclusive sneak peek into the making of the Saudi film ‘Hajjan’. Directed by acclaimed Egyptian-Austrian filmmaker Abu Bakr Shawky, the film was shot in the enchanting landscapes of Tabuk, northwest Saudi Arabia, and is slated for its regional debut on December 4th.

'Hajjan' intricately weaves a captivating tale amidst the timeless expanse of Saudi Arabia's desert, portraying the journey of brothers Matar and Ghanim. Confronted with tragedy, Matar immerses himself in the world of camel racing to protect his cherished companion, Hofira. Under the ruthless ownership of Jasser, Matar embarks on a poignant, ageless coming-of-age drama where the stakes are nothing short of Hofira's life.

Penned by Omar Shama, Farrej Al-Mugfel, and Abu Bakr Shawqi, the film stars Abdul Mohsen Al-Nimr, Omar Al-Atawi, Al-Shaimaa Tayeb, Azzam Al-Nimr, Tolin Barboud, and Ibrahim Al-Hassawi. Having premiered globally at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, ‘Hajjan’ is the latest collaboration between Saudi Arabian cultural centre Ithra and Egypt’s Film Clinic. Guided by producers Mohamed Hefzy and Majed Z. Samman, the film is set to compete in the Arab Spectacular Competition.