Tracing the Global Footsteps of Bellydancing Icon Samia Gamal

Trailblazing her way through Egyptian history, Samia Gamal, the iconic Egyptian belly dancer and silver-screen veteran, earned her status as a true Egyptian hall-of-famer through her exceptional talent, skill and all-around charisma, remaining – to this day – a household name. 

With dreams of becoming the next Badia Masabani, the Syrian ‘Godmother of Oriental Dance’ and Egypt’s pioneering belly dance artist, Gamal set off on her star-studded journey across the globe, which began under her idol's guidance. 

Soon enough, Samia Gamal’s fame would surpass even that of Masabani. 

Stardom in Egypt

Samia Gamal performing at the Deauville Casino in France for the Frano Egyptian Gala in front of His Majesty King Farouk, 1950. 

Proclaimed the ‘National Belly Dancer of Egypt’ by King Farouk, for whom she frequently performed, Gamal would go on to showcase her skills in the presence of high-status members of society. 

Now a national star in her own right, it did not take long for her fame to quickly spread beyond Egypt. 

The Flight to the States 

Photo: Photoshoot with Gjon Mili, 1950. 

Her talents attracted the attention of US-based Albanian photographer Gjon Mili, who invited her for a life-changing photoshoot in the mid-20th century. Perhaps unbeknownst to both Gamal and Mili, this photoshoot would alter the trajectory of her life. 

The American Dream 

Photo: With Husband Shepherd King III, the ‘Texas Billionaire’. 

Gamal’s career found new footing in the US after she married ‘Texas Millionaire’ Sheppard King III. She lived a socialite’s dream, performing across the country, including in Los Angeles and Texas. 

Photo: With Husband Shepherd King III, the ‘Texas Billionaire’. 

Having made her big break out of Egypt, Gamal made her presence known all throughout the world…

Making Waves at Miami Beach 

Photo: Samia Gamal in Miami Beach, Florida, 1952. 

Living the New York Life

Photo: With Husband Shepherd King III, the ‘Texas Billionaire’, arriving in New York City, 1952. 

Chasing the L.A. Dream 

Photo: With Husband Shepherd King III, the ‘Texas Billionaire’, in Los Angeles, California, en route to Las Vegas, Nevada, 1952. 

The End of an Era

Though the unlikely couple had spent years of happiness together, their marriage eventually came to an end in 1954. Afterwards, Samia Gamal found her footing solo, taking the silver-screen by storm.

Calling Paris, France, home for most of 1954, Gamal starred in ‘Ali Baba & the Forty Thieves,’ the French classic directed by Jacques Becker. This film would become the crowning achievement of her career, leading to over 50 classic cinematic roles and solidifying her legacy across the region and beyond. 

Clip: ‘Ali Baba & the Forty Thieves’, 1954. 

Home Sweet Home

Finally back in Egypt, Gamal had audiences falling in love with her all over again…

Photo: Samia Gamal at the Giza Plateau, 1960.