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A devastating fire struck Studio Al-Ahram, one of the oldest film studios in Egypt and the Arab world, without causing any casualties.
On the night of Friday to Saturday, a large-scale fire broke out at Studio Al-Ahram, located in the Giza region, west of Cairo. Built in 1944, this iconic studio is considered one of the oldest and most important in Egypt and the Arab world. Although the incident fortunately did not result in any casualties, the material damage is considerable.
According to security sources, the fire spread to three neighboring buildings, which were evacuated in time before the flames arrived. The residents of these buildings had to spend the night sleeping on the ground in the surrounding streets, testifying to the extent of the catastrophe. Minor cases of suffocation were reported, but they were quickly treated on-site by emergency services.
Local media reports suggest that the fire broke out after the filming of a television series aired during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. This period is known for its record television audiences in Egypt and the Arab world, highlighting the importance of this studio in the region’s film industry.
Studio Al-Ahram, which spans an area of 27,000 square meters, is equipped with three soundstages, a screening room, and an editing room. These facilities have enabled the production of numerous films over the decades, contributing to the cultural richness of Egypt and the Arab world.
Egypt has long been a major player in the global film industry. In the 1950s, the country ranked as the third-largest film producer internationally. Today, despite a decline in production, which fell to 21 films in 2022 due to the economic crisis the country is experiencing, Egypt still claims three-quarters of Arab film production.
This fire is a severe blow to Egyptian and Arab cinematic heritage. Studio Al-Ahram, a true institution, has been a witness to the golden age of Egyptian cinema and has helped shape the cultural identity of the region. Its partial destruction represents an immense loss for film professionals, cinephiles, and the general population.
The Egyptian authorities have not yet commented on the causes of the fire or the exact extent of the damage. However, it is certain that the reconstruction and restoration of Studio Al-Ahram will require considerable efforts and significant financial support.
As Egypt goes through a difficult economic period, it is essential not to neglect the importance of culture and cinema in the construction of national identity and the country’s international influence. The reconstruction of Studio Al-Ahram will need to be part of a broader approach to supporting the Egyptian film industry, enabling it to regain its prominent place on the world stage.
With AFP
