JEDDAH: The literary gathering Writers’ Night took place at Cinema Al-Balad in Jeddah’s historic district, featuring prominent Saudi screenwriters Afnan Linjawi, Dahlia Baeshen, and Dania Al-Tayeb, who shared insights into their creative journeys.
Organized by Maflam, a filmmaking training platform, the event attracted literature and cinema enthusiasts eager to explore the craft of writing for film and television. Media personality Reham Farrash moderated the session.
Danya Al-Hamrani, co-founder and chief creative officer of Maflam, said, “It’s a pleasure to bring together such talented scriptwriters under one roof. Events like this reflect Maflam’s mission to spark meaningful dialogue and inspire the next generation of creatives.”
The screenwriters engaged in an open discussion about the challenges and inspirations shaping Saudi storytelling today. Linjawi described her evolving journey, saying, “I have experimented with many forms of creative writing, from poetry to stage plays to screenwriting. My goal tonight was to demystify the writing process and encourage others.”
Al-Tayeb shared her approach to storytelling: “Real-life conversations fuel my writing, but curiosity and emotional honesty truly drive the process. My stories aim to reflect truth without easy answers, capturing the struggles behind the scenes that shape my characters.”
Cinema Al-Balad, founded by director Abdullah Saharti and producer Waheed Jamjoum, has quickly become a cultural hub in Jeddah’s historic area as part of the Ministry of Culture’s efforts to position the city as a global heritage destination.
Saharti said, “This artistic cinema revives the spirit of Jeddah’s first cinematic courtyard, Cinema Hosh Jamjoum, blending modern creativity with local heritage.”
He emphasized that Writers’ Night is “an important evening to empower Saudi filmmakers” and outlined the cinema’s diverse weekly programs featuring film screenings, workshops, and special sessions celebrating Saudi talent.
