Maryam Raafat

Maryam Raafat is an Egyptian journalist who has been writing about cultural and social issues since 2009 for local and international outlets, including the Egyptian Gazette and Xinhua. On Twitter: @Maryam28853298

Egypt | Nov 3, 2021

Egyptian female religious chanters break gender barrier

A group of young women who love the art of religious chanting decided to break into the field of chanting, which has been dominated by men since its inception, and unleash their creativity.

Culture | Oct 27, 2021

Cairo Jazz Festival kicks off

Jazz music fans in Egypt are about to enjoy the 13th edition of the Cairo Jazz Festival, which will take place from Oct. 28 to Nov. 5 at the American University's Tahrir Campus in Cairo.

Cairo Jazz Festival announement for the concert Oct. 31 with Frances-Marie Uitti and Ayman Fanous.

Culture | Oct 17, 2021

Dancer pushes for UNESCO to recognize Egyptian belly dancing

Egyptian dancer Amie Sultan is working to get classical belly dance recognized as Egyptian heritage globally.

Egypt | Mar 29, 2020

Egyptians feel demoralized by empty churches, mosques

The decision to suspend collective prayers in mosques and churches was criticized by some Egyptians who feel deprived of spiritual support during hard times.

A few people walk in the vicinity of the closed Al-Azhar mosque in Egypt's capital Cairo on March 20, 2020, after the country's Muslim religious authorities decided to put the Friday prayers on hold, in order to avoid gatherings and the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 disease. (Photo by Khaled DESOUKI / AFP) (Photo by KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images)

Originals | Jun 11, 2019

Will Egypt privatize electricity delivery?

Two international companies have approached the Egyptian government about buying shares in three of its electricity stations, sparking discussion over the pros and cons of privatizing energy distribution.