Egyptian soprano Fatma Said returned to Egypt on September 26 for a performance at Cairo’s Abdeen Palace, marking her first in the country since receiving the prestigious European Culture Award in 2024.
Fatma Said in Maison Yeya gown and Harry Vartan jewelry. Photo: Islam Al-Umar
The concert, held in celebration of World Tourism Day, was organized by RMC Worldwide Partners in collaboration with Egypt’s Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, with the esteemed Maestro Nader Abbassi conducting the event.Dr. Ahmed Hanno, Egypt’s Minister of Culture, emphasized the cultural significance of the concert. “This event combines fine art with Egypt’s rich cultural heritage. It provides an opportunity for the Egyptian audience and international visitors to experience operatic music in a setting of immense historical value,” said Hanno. He added that leveraging Egypt’s artistic wealth is key to enhancing the country’s status abroad, as art becomes an increasingly integral part of Egypt’s tourism campaigns.
Photo: Islam Al-Umar
Photo: Islam Al-Umar
Said’s evening’s performance included a variety of opera melodies, English, and Arabic songs, as well as music by her favorite Egyptian composer, Abdelwahab. “For this special event, I wanted to choose pieces that are close to my heart, spanning from classical opera to musicals, hoping to create something the audience would truly enjoy,” said Said.
Dressed in a gown by Maison Yeya, a designer she deeply admires, Said felt the occasion was elevated by her attire. “It was the perfect dress for performing at Abdeen Palace, making me feel like a princess,” she shared. She paired the dress with stunning diamonds by Harry Vartan, crediting her stylist, Yasmine Kenawi, for pulling the look together.
Photo: Islam Al-Umar
Photo: Islam Al-Umar
Amr El Kady, CEO of the Egyptian Tourism Authority, praised Fatma Said’s contributions to Egyptian culture on the world stage. “We are proud to have such a pioneering talent whose work has blended operatic melodies with Egyptian musical traditions. Her performances resonate deeply with global audiences and shine a spotlight on Egypt’s artistic legacy.”
Reflecting on the performance, Said expressed her gratitude for the experience: “I feel so much gratitude and happiness to be able to share beautiful music in such a special place. The connection with the audience at Abdeen Palace was unforgettable, especially singing iconic Egyptian songs in such an iconic setting.” She added that concerts in Cairo are always among her most memorable, and this one will remain close to her heart.
Photo: Islam Al-Umar
Style: Yasmine Kenawi
Hair: Saeed Ashraf at Á La Mode Salon
Makeup: Dina Ragheb at Yves Saint Laurent Official Pop Up Store
