25 Celebrities With Arab Heritage

25 Celebrities With Arab Heritage

This region an array of seriously huge superstars like Balqees and Elissa. But here’s something you might not realize: there are a bunch of internationally knowA-listers out there who have Arab roots too. From Gigi and Bella Hadid proudly displaying their Palestinian heritage, to Jade Thirwall’s Egyptian and Yemini roots, you’d be amazed to learn how many other actors, singers, and innovators out there also share a bit of Arab DNA. It’s like a hidden connection that spans across the entertainment world!

25 Celebrities With Arab Heritage

Jade Thirlwall

Jade Thirlwall is a powerhouse performer and she’s known for her captivating performances as part of the girl group Little Mix, has Arab heritage through her Egyptian and Yemeni ancestry. Her maternal grandfather is Yemini, and her maternal grandmother is Egyptian, which gives her a diverse background and cultural influence. This mix of Egyptian and Yemeni heritage has been an important part of Jade’s identity and has influenced her perspective on music, fashion, and advocacy.

DJ Khaled

DJ Khaled is a highly successful record producer who is also known for his energetic personality and iconic catchphrases like “Another one!” and “Major key alert!”. He’s achieved numerous hit songs and albums, collaborating with top artists in the music industry like Rihanna. DJ Khaled proudly embraces his Palestinian heritage, often referencing it in interviews and on social media.

Iman

Iman, the iconic supermodel, is known for her trailblazing career in the fashion industry. She’s graced countless magazine covers and runways, becoming a symbol of beauty and elegance. Beyond her modeling career, Iman is celebrated for her philanthropic work and entrepreneurial ventures. Her name means “faith” in Arabic, reflecting her Somali heritage. With her father having served as a Somali ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Iman’s upbringing reflects a blend of diverse cultures and influences.

Imaan Hammam

Imaan Hammam, the Dutch supermodel of Egyptian and Moroccan descent, has made waves in the fashion industry with her striking looks and versatile style. She’s known for her high-profile campaigns and runway appearances from Victoria Secret to top fashion houses like Chanel and Versace. Imaan’s heritage reflects a rich blend of Egyptian and Moroccan roots—her father hails from Cairo, Egypt, while her mother is Moroccan from Zagora.

Bella Hadid and Gigi Hadid

Gigi and Bella Hadid are not only celebrated for their modeling careers but also for their outspoken advocacy for Palestine, a cause they are deeply passionate about due to their father’s Palestinian heritage. Additionally, Bella’s entrepreneurial spirit is highlighted by her successful venture into the fragrance industry with her company, Orabella.

Salma Hayek

Salma Hayek is known for her versatile acting career, starring in films like “Frida” and “Desperado.” She has received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for her role in “Frida.” Salma’s heritage includes Lebanese roots, which she often proudly acknowledges. Her advocacy for Arab culture and her success in Hollywood contribute to her influential presence in the entertainment industry.

Shakira

Shakira is a global superstar known for her distinctive voice and captivating performances in hit songs like “Hips Don’t Lie” and “Whenever, Wherever.” She’s won multiple Grammy Awards and has been recognized for her humanitarian efforts. Shakira’s Lebanese roots are evident in her music and personal style, reflecting her diverse cultural background and heritage. Her music and philanthropy have made her a beloved figure around the world.

Rami Malek

Rami Malek is a talented actor known for his captivating portrayal of Freddie Mercury in “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. He’s also recognized for his role in the TV series “Mr. Robot.” Rami Malek, of Egyptian descent, has been celebrated for his acting skills and contribution to film and television.

Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana is a versatile actress known for her roles in blockbuster films like “Avatar,” “Guardians of the Galaxy,” and “Star Trek.” Her performances have earned her widespread acclaim and made her a prominent figure in Hollywood. With Lebanese roots, Zoe Saldana embraces her diverse heritage, contributing to the representation of Arab culture in the entertainment industry.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller gained fame for his role in the TV series “Prison Break,” where he played Michael Scofield. Beyond acting, he’s also a screenwriter and producer. With Syrian and Lebanese ancestry from his mother’s side, Miller has openly embraced his diverse heritage. His talents and advocacy efforts have made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Amal Clooney

Amal Clooney is renowned as a prominent human rights lawyer and activist. She’s known for her work advocating for international law and human rights, often representing high-profile cases. Amal’s Druze Lebanese heritage from her father’s side and Palestinian descent from her mother’s side have influenced her commitment to justice and global issues. Her accomplishments and dedication have earned her widespread respect in legal circles and beyond.

Ramy Youssef

Ramy Youssef is a comedian and actor best known for his Emmy-winning show “Ramy,” which explores the complexities of Muslim identity in America. His unique humour and storytelling have earned him critical acclaim and multiple awards. Ramy proudly embraces his Egyptian heritage, infusing cultural insights into his work while challenging stereotypes.

Jenna Dewan

Jenna Dewan is a talented actress and dancer known for her roles in films like “Step Up” and TV shows like “Supergirl.” She’s recognized for her impressive dance skills and charismatic on-screen presence. Jenna’s heritage includes Syrian and Lebanese roots from her father’s side, which she has openly celebrated.

Teri Hatcher

Teri Hatcher is best known for her role as Susan Mayer on the TV series “Desperate Housewives.” She’s been a prominent figure in Hollywood, showcasing her acting skills in various TV shows and films. With Syrian ancestry from her mother’s side. Apart from her acting career, she’s also an advocate for various causes, including women’s empowerment and health awareness.

David Guetta

David Guetta is a renowned DJ and music producer known for his electronic dance music hits. He’s achieved international fame with chart-topping songs and collaborations with top artists. With Moroccan heritage from his father’s side, Guetta has mentioned how his background has influenced his music and style. He’s won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, and continues to be a dominant force in the electronic music scene worldwide.

Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs was a visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of Apple Inc., revolutionizing technology with products like the iPhone and Macintosh. Despite having Syrian roots from his biological father, Abdulfattah Jandali, Jobs was adopted by a family of Armenian and Swiss descent. His innovative spirit and commitment to design aesthetics have left an indelible mark on the tech industry. Jobs’ impact is evident in the global success of Apple products and his influence on modern computing.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi is a talented actress known for her role in the TV series “Black-ish” and its spin-off “Grown-ish.” She’s also an activist and fashion icon, advocating for social issues like education and diversity. With her Iranian heritage from her father, Yara embodies cultural pride and promotes inclusivity in Hollywood.

French Montana

French Montana, known for his chart-topping hits like “Unforgettable,” is a Moroccan-American rapper and songwriter. He’s celebrated for his unique blend of hip-hop and North African influences in his music. French Montana has collaborated with top artists and earned several accolades in the music industry. With his Moroccan roots, he brings a multicultural flair to the rap scene, showcasing his heritage through his music and style.

Mena Massoud

Mena Massoud is an Egyptian-Canadian actor known for his breakout role as Aladdin in Disney’s live-action adaptation of the classic tale. He’s gained recognition for his charming portrayal and impressive singing abilities. Mena’s heritage adds depth to his roles, allowing him to bring authenticity to characters like Aladdin. Beyond acting, he’s an advocate for diversity in Hollywood and uses his platform to highlight Arab representation in film and television.

Faouzia

Faouzia is a talented Moroccan-Canadian singer known for her powerful vocals and impressive range. She gained prominence through her covers and original songs on YouTube, showcasing her unique style and emotive performances. Faouzia’s most popular songs include “Tears of Gold,” which gained significant traction on streaming platforms and showcases her impressive vocal range. She has also collaborated with artists like John Legend on the song “Minefields,” which further highlighted her talent and versatility.

Peso Pluma

Peso Pluma, the stage name of the talented artist Hassan Emilio Kabande Laija, whose rich heritage includes Lebanese-Mexican roots. With tracks like “Sabor a Mí” and “Arre,” he brings a unique blend of cultural influences to the forefront, captivating audiences with his soulful beats and rhythmic flow.

Elyanna

Elyanna is a rising star known for her soulful vocals and captivating stage presence. Hailing from Palestinian roots, she uses her platform to raise awareness about Palestinian culture and issues. Elyanna made waves by performing at Coachella, showcasing her talent to a global audience. Her music blends Arabic influences with contemporary pop, creating a unique and powerful sound that resonates with fans worldwide. Keep an eye on this talented artist as she continues to make waves in the music industry.

Saint Levant

Saint Levant is a dynamic singer-rapper celebrated for his energetic performances and thought-provoking lyrics. With Palestinian and Algerian heritage, he’s a strong advocate for Palestinian rights, using his music to amplify important messages. Saint Levant electrified audiences at Coachella, showcasing his unique blend of hip-hop and Middle Eastern influences. His music reflects his diverse background and commitment to social issues, making him a rising star in the music scene.

Zeina

Zeina is an Egyptian-Lebanese singer known for her hit songs “Hooked” and “Nasty.” She has gained popularity for her unique style and captivating performances. Zeina proudly embraces her Arab heritage, blending cultural influences into her music. Her songs have resonated with audiences, showcasing her talent and versatility in the music industry.

Lolo Zouaï

Lolo Zouaï is a rising singer known for her soulful voice and captivating melodies. With popular songs like “Desert Rose,” “Sak Pase,” and “Encore,” she’s made waves in the music scene. Lolo proudly embraces her Algerian heritage from her father’s side, infusing her music with cultural influences that resonate with her audience. Her unique style and honest lyrics have garnered her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

Lead Image courtesy of Instagram/@salmahayek