Nayla Al Khaja is a trailblazer in the world of cinema, breaking barriers as the first female screenwriter, director, and producer in the United Arab Emirates. Her journey from studying filmmaking in Toronto to directing internationally acclaimed films is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and determination. With a portfolio that includes the award-winning "Arabana", "Malal", and "The Neighbor", Nayla has earned global recognition, including having her films "Animal" and "The Shadow" acquired by Netflix. In 2023, she made history again with her debut feature film "Three", the first Arabic production to use AI-driven voice localisation for a Mandarin release, expanding the reach of Emirati cinema worldwide.
Beyond filmmaking, Nayla is a powerhouse entrepreneur, founding Al Khaja Films and launching The Scene, the UAE’s first independent film club. She has worked with global brands like Apple, Samsung, Porsche, and Gucci, and was the behind-the-scenes director for Star Trek 3, commissioned by the Dubai Film and TV Commission. As a multi-award-winning filmmaker, she has been recognised as one of the most powerful Arab women by Forbes and Variety, earning accolades such as Visionary of the Year and Businesswoman of the Year. Her collaboration with Oscar-winning talents, including Terry George (The Alexandria Killings) and A.R. Rahman (Baab), further solidifies her as a creative force shaping the future of Middle Eastern cinema.
As a motivational speaker, Nayla captivates audiences with her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges, navigating male-dominated industries, and staying true to her artistic vision. Fluent in five languages, she delivers powerful talks on filmmaking, entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, and cultural storytelling. Her ability to bridge traditional values with modern innovation makes her an ideal speaker for corporate events, film festivals, leadership summits, and university engagements. Whether discussing her experiences in global filmmaking or sharing insights on breaking societal barriers, she leaves audiences motivated and empowered to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Hire Nayla today to elevate your event with her inspiring narrative, industry expertise, and bold vision for the future. Whether addressing aspiring filmmakers, business leaders, or changemakers, she delivers engaging and thought-provoking discussions that challenge perspectives and ignite ambition.
