Major Blaze Engulfs Iconic Film Studio in Cairo

A significant fire destroyed the historic Al-Ahram Studio in Cairo, which is 80 years old. The fire caused extensive damage and spread to nearby buildings on Saturday morning, as reported by the Egyptian state news website Al-Ahram.

The firefighters worked for over five hours to put out the fire, which occurred shortly after the completion of filming for a Ramadan television series. The incident also led to the evacuation of residential buildings in the vicinity, according to Al-Ahram.

The report mentioned that the studio, along with its decorations, wood, photography areas, and corridors, was completely destroyed.

Videos shared on Egyptian media platforms displayed the studio location and the neighboring buildings severely impacted by the fire.

No fatalities have been reported and several injured were transported to hospitals for treatment, according to state media.

A firefighter cools the area as it continues to smoulder.

A firefighter cools the area as it continues to smoulder.

Momen Samir/AFP/Getty Images

Egypt is known for its strong presence in the Arab film industry, often referred to as the "Hollywood on the Nile." The country has produced renowned international stars such as the late Omar Sharif and acclaimed director Youssef Chahine.

Established in 1944, Al-Ahram Studio has been a key player in Egypt's film and television sector. Spanning 27,000 square meters, the studio features three production stages, a screening room, and an editing suite, making it a vital hub for the industry.

The studio played a key role in creating many Egyptian films and TV shows, making it an important cultural treasure.

According to state media reports, Egypt’s Public Prosecutor is looking into what caused the fire at one of the Arab world’s oldest film studios.

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Minister of Culture Nevine El-Kilany visited the site to survey the losses and the impact on the surrounding area. Madbouly announced that each family affected by the fire in nearby buildings would receive 15,000 Egyptian pounds (about $300) to help rent apartments until their own are repaired, the State Information Service said on Saturday.

Editor's P/S:

The devastating fire at Al-Ahram Studio has left an irreplaceable void in Egypt's cultural landscape. This historic studio, a cornerstone of the Arab film industry, has witnessed the creation of countless cinematic masterpieces and nurtured generations of filmmakers. Its loss is not just a blow to the entertainment industry but also a tragic erasure of a significant part of Egypt's cultural heritage.

The resilience shown by the Egyptian people in the face of this adversity is commendable. As authorities investigate the cause of the fire, the country unites in grief and determination to rebuild and preserve its cultural heritage. The studio's legacy will undoubtedly live on through the memories and inspiration it has fostered over the years, and it is hoped that this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for strengthening the industry and ensuring its continued vibrancy. investigation into the cause of the fire is crucial to prevent such tragedies in the future and ensure the preservation of Egypt's cultural treasures.