'5 Questions' with Nayla Al Khaja, UAE's First Female Film Director

Meet UAE’s first female film director, Nayla Al Khaja. She shares her insights on filmmaking as a tool for cultural exchange, taking Emirati culture to the world, working with the legendary AR Rahman, and more. She also walks us through portraying universal emotions on celluloid and shares tips for young filmmakers just starting out.

Q1. How do you see the future of the UAE and Arab filmmaking evolving on the global stage?

The future of the UAE and Arab filmmaking on the global stage is incredibly promising. We’re at a pivotal moment where the world is eager to hear fresh, authentic stories, and the UAE and the Arab world have a wealth of untapped narratives to offer. Our culture, heritage, and unique perspectives are assets that can strike a chord universally when paired with strong storytelling.

For me, the focus is on creating authentic, emotionally resonant films that are deeply rooted in our identity while remaining relatable to global audiences. By nurturing talent, embracing bold storytelling, and investing in cinematic infrastructure, the UAE and Arab filmmaking will not only thrive locally but also become a key contributor to the global film industry.

Q2. How does Emirati culture influence your films, and how do you make it appealing to international audiences?

Emirati culture is the backbone of my films – it influences everything from the themes I explore to the visual storytelling and the characters I create. Our traditions, landscapes, and values have profoud depth and emotion, and I strive to bring these elements to life. By incorporating cultural nuances, like rituals, language, and family dynamics, I aim to immerse audiences in the essence of Emirati life.

To ensure genuineness, I spend time deeply researching and collaborating with local voices to reflect the truth of our stories. I also focus on universal feelings like love, loss, and resilience, which transcend cultural boundaries and connect with audiences everywhere. It’s about striking a balance – remaining true to our heritage while crafting narratives that are universally resonant.

I see my films as an invitation for global audiences to experience Emirati culture, not as something foreign, but as a reflection of our shared humanity.

Q3. How do behind-the-scenes dynamics contribute to the overall success of a film? Young filmmakers often find people management challenging.

Behind-the-scenes dynamics are the heartbeat of any successful film. A well-functioning set depends on clear communication, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose among the entire crew. Filmmaking is inherently a team effort, and when everyone – from the director to the production assistants – feels valued and aligned, it directly translates into the quality of the final product.

It’s also crucial to resolve conflicts quickly and foster an environment where everyone feels heard and supported. When the crew works cohesively, they bring passion and energy to the set and that synergy is reflected in the film itself. Great people management isn’t just a behind-the-scenes skill – it’s the foundation for creativity and excellence in filmmaking.

Q4. With AI tools reshaping post-production, what new creative opportunities do filmmakers now have that weren’t possible before?

One of the most exciting opportunities is the ability to refine visual and auditory elements with unprecedented precision and speed. Tasks like colour grading, sound mixing, and creating highly realistic visual effects and virtual environments can now be streamlined at a fraction of the cost, allowing filmmakers to focus more on the creative aspects of storytelling.

Additionally, AI can assist in voice localization, enabling seamless dubbing and subtitling, which helps films reach wider audiences globally.

Another game-changing aspect is the use of AI for generating previews, helping directors visualize scenes or test creative ideas before committing to costly production changes. This enhances flexibility and innovation during the post-production phase. All of this is making the art of filmmaking more accessible and dynamic than ever before.

Q5. What has it been like teaming up with Indian, Oscar-winning music composer A.R. Rahman for your upcoming feature film BAAB?

The film follows Wahida, who struggles to make sense of her twin sister’s mysterious death, and is plagued by a haunting rhythm in her ears. It explores the four stages of grief, though we don’t present them in a black-and-white way. Wahida is young and creates a fantasy world to cope with her sister’s death. They were identical and had spent their whole lives together – so, how do you move on from there?

Rahman’s music doesn’t just accompany the film – it becomes an integral part of the narrative, elevating the emotional depth and surreal elements of the film. His decision to work with an all-female orchestra adds another layer of resonance, perfectly complementing the themes of resilience and empowerment within the story. The score will serve as the heartbeat of the film, guiding audiences through its layered, immersive journey.

Collaborating with an artist of Rahman’s calibre has been a humbling and inspiring experience, and I’m confident that his music will leave a lasting imprint on BAAB, transforming it into a truly cinematic experience. His artistry brings a global dimension to the film while remaining deeply attuned to its cultural essence.