Cairo According to: Layla Ghaleb

From directing music videos for Mohamed Mounir and Mohamed Ramadan to choreographing performances for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final and shooting fashion films for Versace and BVLGARI, chances are you’ve probably been touched by Layla Ghaleb’s work, even if you haven’t realized it. Each passing year, the Cairo-born director and choreographer takes on even bigger projects across the Arab world. But we’re not here to ask Layla about what’s next.

Instead, Layla Ghaleb digs into her past for CairoScene to tell us about the Cairo of her childhood, maps out her favourite spots across the city, and leaves us with the verdict that Cairo is better experienced with a loved one.

What’s a place that means Cairo to you?

The streets of Masr El Gedida and Mohandessin, because of my childhood memories between my house and my grandmother's house and growing up between the two. The same for Maadi where my school was. I can still remember Bandar days on Thursdays after school.

Complete the following: Cairo is…

Quirky and warm and home.

What’s your favourite neighbourhood?

My favourite three authentic and old neighbourhoods in Cairo are Maadi, Zamalek and mostly Masr El Gedida.

Your go-to food spot?

It depends on who I'm dining with, but my favorite spots are Mena House for breakfast, Andrea for lunch, Brisk for burgers and fries!

Your go-to café?

I love Blooms & Beans and Cake Café.

Your go-to date spot?

Anywhere with my husband is my favorite date spot, but if I really had to pick it would be something Asian or Italian.

What isn’t a Cairo landmark but should be?

Ramses Wissa Wassef Art Center. It’s on my list for potential shoot locations, but the story behind their carpets and everything they do, as well as the woman who work there—it deserves a piece on its own.

Tell us a song that feels like Cairo.

Ala Baly by Aida El Ayoubi (play this and watch me ball like a baby), and any Omar Khairat song.

What's a place in Cairo you wish you could revisit for the first time?

I wish I could take a stroll from Korba all the way to Heliopolis Club with my husband for the first time, and we could talk about both our childhoods. You experience Cairo better with your loved ones.