MY DRIVER AND I

Saudi Arabia I 2024 I  Arabic dialogue with English subtitles I 110 min

About Film

Saudi filmmaker and actress Ahd Kamel made her feature film debut with My Driver and I, an intimate coming-of-age story that reflects the evolving landscape of contemporary Saudi cinema. The film had its world premiere at the Red Sea International Film Festival, where it quickly gained attention for its personal storytelling and authentic portrayal of everyday life in Jeddah. Following its premiere, the film continued its journey through international festival circuits and cultural film programs across the Middle East, Europe, and North America, contributing to the growing visibility of Saudi filmmaking on the global stage.

Set in Jeddah in the early 2000s, the film follows the relationship between a spirited young girl and the Sudanese driver who becomes an important figure in her life. Through their evolving bond, the story explores themes of friendship, belonging, and the quiet transformations that accompany growing up. The narrative unfolds through everyday moments that gradually reveal deeper emotional connections between the characters, offering audiences a perspective on family dynamics and cultural life rarely depicted in international cinema.

The performances by Roula Dakheelallah and Mustafa Shehata anchor the film in a naturalistic tone, bringing warmth and authenticity to the story. Director Ahd Kamel draws on her own memories and experiences growing up in Saudi Arabia, crafting a narrative that balances humor, tenderness, and reflection.

Visually, the film presents a distinctive portrait of Jeddah’s urban landscapes, from residential neighborhoods to coastal roads along the Red Sea. These environments play an important role in shaping the film’s atmosphere, capturing the rhythms of everyday life in the city during a period of social and cultural change.

The screening in Stockholm on April 7, 2026, as part of MAFF Arabian Nights, marks the film’s Swedish premiere, introducing this celebrated Saudi feature to audiences in Scandinavia.