Director Saeed Hamed Appeals: “43 Years in Egypt and Treated as a Foreigner”
Sudanese director Saeed Hamed has appealed for Egyptian citizenship, expressing deep sadness over being treated as a foreigner despite spending more than 43 years in Egypt. Saeed confirmed that he faces paying double fees simply because he does not hold Egyptian nationality, although he considers himself part of Egyptian society and one of its own.
In emotional statements, Saeed said:
“I am Egyptian and feel ashamed to ask for citizenship despite deserving it. I have made many appeals but received no response or help from the authorities. I hope to be granted the citizenship I deserve.”
A Long Artistic Journey with Egypt… From Khartoum to the Hearts of Egyptians
Saeed Hamed was born in 1958 in Khartoum, Sudan, before moving to Cairo to study. He joined the Higher Institute of Cinema, majoring in editing, and began his artistic career as an assistant director.
Over time, he achieved great success directing notable films such as:
Love in the Refrigerator (1992)
Short, Fanella, and Cap
The President’s Cook
Hanem Bent Pasha
The Return of the Naughty Girl
Step Aside, Master
Either Me or My Aunt
Friend of a Friend
Hamam in Amsterdam
He also worked on successful theatrical and cinematic productions like Alabanda and Saidi in the American University, collaborating with prominent stars such as Mohamed Henedy.
A Continuing Plea… Will Egyptian Authorities Hear Saeed’s Call?
Despite his long artistic career and clear impact on the Egyptian cultural scene, Saeed Hamed is still awaiting an official decision to grant him citizenship—a right that, for him, is more than just a legal document, but a symbol of belonging and recognition.
Saeed Hamed’s story remains one of the humanitarian cases highlighting the challenges some face amid bureaucratic systems, with great hopes that his plea will reach the hearts of those in charge.
