Red Sea Film Festival’s Mohammed Al Turki Honoured with Philanthropic Leadership Award at amfAR Gala
The event, which was held during the Venice International Film Festival earlier this week, raised over nine million dirhams in support of HIV/AIDS research
In between the many film premieres and panel discussions at the Venice International Film Festival celebrities found time to make it out to one of the most important events in the calendar: the amfAR Venezia gala.
Held in partnership with the Rea Sea International Film Festival, the event was hosted by actress Kate Beckinsale and was attended by some of Hollywood’s biggest legends, along with a few famous faces from the region – and one notable champion of Arab cinema was bestowed with an award in honour of his philanthropic efforts.
Saudi film producer Mohammed Al Turki was honoured with amfAR’s Philanthropic Leadership Award by actress and friend Eva Longoria. He shared a few remarks as he graciously accepted the award on stage, noting how amfAR’s “dedication to making AIDS history, finding a cure, and ending this epidemic” was truly inspiring, while also thanking his Red Season Film Foundation family on stage and their unwavering commitment in supporting female storytellers.
He was in good company too – both Richard Gere and Antonio Banderas took home awards at the event, while Kelly Rowland and Rumer Willis treated the guests to special performances.
The gala and auction raised over nine million dirhams ($2.5 million) in support of HIV/AIDS research.
The turn out of regional talent was strong, both sartorially speaking and in terms of attendees. In addition many A-Listers were spotted wearing regional designers on the red carpet, including model Josephine Skriver and fashion photographer Nima Benati. Bazaar Arabia shares a selection of highlights from the red carpet here.
Mohammed Al Turki in Armani
The KSA filmmaker and philanthropist stepped out in a black Armani tux with a Cartier brooch to receive his award.
Zainab Al Alwan in Georges Chakra
The Iraqi model and entrepreneur stepped out in a black velvet dress from the Lebanese label Georges Chakra’s Autumn/Winter Couture 2024-2025 collection. She paired the elegant look with glittering pieces by Juliana Xerez jewellery.
Zarina Yeva in Zuhair Murad
Kazakh actress and model Zarina Yeva attended the charity gala in a dazzling Zuhair Murad dress from thethe brand’s Ready-to-Wear Resort 2025 collection. The shimmery silver gown featured embroidered silver detailing on tulle; she paired the look with accessories from Damiani jewellery.
Josephine Skriver in Zuhair Murad
The model and co-founder of Joja, stepped out in an elegant strapless black gown from the Lebanese designer’s Ready-to-Wear Resort 2025 collection.
Farhana Bodi in Nali Barzani
Dubai based beauty mogul and television personality Farhana Bodi looked stunning in a custom dress by Turkish designer Nali Barzani, paired with Roberto Coin jewellery.
Stella Maxwell in Elie Saab
The runway model wore a vintage Elie Saab Haute Couture archive gown to the gala event.
Nima Benati in Zuhair Murad
The fashion photographer attended the gala in a black gown from the Lebanese couturier’s Ready-To-Wear Resort 2025 Collection.
Rumer Willis in Georges Chakra
The Hollywood actress and daughter of cinematic legend Bruce Willis wore a chocolate silk dress from the Lebanese designer’s A/W 2024-2025 couture collection.
Lead image supplied.
