Emirati filmmaker Nayla Al-Khaja BAAB film is gaining praise for its visual boldness, emotional depth, and partnership with Canon middle east. As the UAE’s first female director, Al-Khaja completed BAAB—her second feature film—as a creative milestone.
she shared, “It really feels like I found a language i enjoy—my own artistic voice.” From its haunting tone to immersive style, BAAB represents a leap from her debut Three.
Moreover, the story follows wahida, a woman tormented by a strange rhythm after her twin sister’s death. As she searches for truth in the mountains, grief begins to distort her sense of reality.
Unlike Three, which premiered at major festivals in saudi arabia and shanghai, BAAB shows significant growth in tone and cinematography. A. R. rahman, the oscar-winning composer, created the film’s original score. His music deepens the emotional layers of this psychological horror.
Furthermore, al-Khaja explained her connection to the genre. “You feel like you’re pulled into a haunting world. It’s visually stunning,” she said. Her preference for low-light filming also enhances the mood, creating a dreamlike, eerie experience.
In addition to the film, Nayla Al-Khaja BAAB aligns with canon’s “see no limits” campaign. She has worked with canon since 2011 and recently led a workshop for young filmmakers. Using the EOS R5 Mark II, she demonstrated how visual storytelling starts with a clear creative vision.
“Having a camera is one thing,” she explained. “But knowing how to use it to serve your story—that’s where it matters.”
However, canon’s latest initiative supports women in film across the gulf region. Al-Khaja emphasized the need for mentorship. “When I started, I didn’t have a role model,” she recalled. “Now, I want to be that guide for others.”
As Nayla Al-Khaja BAAB approaches release later this year, the film showcases her talent, canon’s impact, and a growing wave of regional female storytellers. Together, they’re reshaping the future of Arab cinema—one powerful frame at a time.
