Born in Rabat on 10 January 1958, she eventually moved to Cairo in 1977, establishing a dual citizenship and a permanent base that has lasted for over five decades.
Early Career and Move to Egypt
Discovered as a child on the Moroccan television program Mawaheb, Said began her professional musical path at nine years old. After relocating to Egypt, she aligned her discography with the Egyptian Arabic genre, although she continued to record specific tracks in Moroccan Arabic. Notable early singles from this period include Maghlouba and Wa'ady, while her studio recordings often involved collaborations with Egyptian composer Mohamed El Mougi.
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Beyond her singing career, Said acted in the film Saaktob Ismak Ala Arrimal, where she also performed the song Yadamiiti Haddi. Her output frequently hit the top of regional charts, featuring titles such as Ben Lef, Sayidati Sadati, and Akher Hawa. The 2000 release of Lilah Habeebee earned recognition at the Cairo Arabic Music Festival, while her later album Aweeny Beek, released in 2004, became the highest-selling Arabic album in the Middle East and worldwide, with over 10 million copies distributed.
Awards and International Recognition
Throughout her career, Said has secured over 40 accolades. In 2003, she received a World Music Award based on international sales figures and was named the best artist in the Middle East by BBC Radio 3 for her work on Youm Wara Youm. Her contributions to culture have been honored with the Order of the Throne, the Murex d'Or, and the Rabab D'or prize.
Personal Life and Social Advocacy
Said was married to Egyptian musician Hany Mehanna between 1988 and 1994, later marrying businessman Mustafa Naboulsy, with whom she had her son, Shady. Her public profile has also included humanitarian efforts, such as organizing concerts aimed at promoting solidarity following the 2006 riots in France. Despite her long-term residence in Cairo, she has frequently noted a personal desire to return to her roots in Morocco.
Fast facts
- Born: 10 January 1958, Rabat
- Citizenship: Moroccan, Egyptian
- Eurovision Appearance: 1980, 18th place
- Estimated Record Sales: Over 60 million
- Notable Award: Order of the Throne
- First Marriage: Hany Mehanna, 1988–1994
- Son: Shady
- Career Start: Age nine, Mawaheb program
Questions readers ask
How many records has Samira Said sold?
According to the Egyptian newspaper Al Ahram, her albums have exceeded 60 million copies in sales.
Did Samira Said act in films?
Yes, she sang and acted in the film Saaktob Ismak Ala Arrimal.
