Nayla Al Khaja is a pioneering filmmaker and dynamic motivational speaker who has broken new ground as the first female screenwriter, director, and producer in the United Arab Emirates. Her remarkable story of perseverance and innovation makes her a sought-after voice at conferences and events around the world. Nayla is hired as a speaker not only for her cinematic achievements but also for her powerful ability to inspire audiences through her lived experiences – showcasing the triumphs and trials of navigating male-dominated industries and redefining what is possible for women in the Arab world and beyond.
Nayla’s journey began in Toronto, where she studied filmmaking before returning to the UAE to pursue a career that had never before existed for Emirati women. Undeterred by the lack of a local industry or female representation, she blazed her own trail by founding Al Khaja Films and releasing her first short, “Arabana”, which earned her the Best Emirati Filmmaker award at the Dubai International Film Festival. With unwavering determination, she steadily built her portfolio, which includes acclaimed titles like “Malal” and “The Neighbour”, ultimately securing her place as a central figure in the growth of Emirati cinema.
In recent years, Nayla has continued to make history. Her debut feature film “Three” became the first Arabic production to utilise AI-driven voice localisation for a Mandarin-language release, marking a significant technological and cultural milestone. She also became the first Emirati filmmaker to have her work acquired by Netflix, with “Animal” and “The Shadow” reaching global audiences. Her influence was further cemented by her selection to direct and produce “The Alexandria Killings” alongside Oscar-winner Terry George, as well as being named Businesswoman of the Year and Visionary of the Year. Through her film club, The Scene, she has created a vibrant community of over 22,000 film enthusiasts, further shaping the UAE’s cultural landscape.
Nayla is hired as a motivational speaker for her unique blend of artistic vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and fearless storytelling. She speaks with passion and authenticity, inspiring diverse audiences – from aspiring filmmakers to corporate leaders – with her insights on creativity, leadership, and breaking through societal limitations. Her talks are both practical and profoundly moving, leaving listeners energised to forge their own paths and embrace bold change.
