As the world marks International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting the Arab and North African artists making a mark on the global music scene. From commanding stages at major festivals like Coachella to gracing Time Square billboards and collaborating with international icons, these artists aren’t just emerging—they’re thriving.

Arab and North African musicians have long faced barriers to global recognition, from limited representation in Western media to language and industry challenges. But today, a new wave of talent is breaking through, blending Arabic sounds with contemporary influences, weaving multiple languages into their music, and embracing globally resonant production styles—from hip-hop to pop.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re highlighting the women leading this movement, carving out space on international stages and finding new opportunities through platforms like Spotify EQUAL, Apple’s In Her Own Words, and global festivals.

From Elyanna’s groundbreaking Coachella performance to Zeyne’s upcoming performance in the OFFLIMITS Music Festival, amongst a lineup of stars such ase Ed Sheeran, here are the next-generation of Arab female artists proving that music transcends borders.

Elyanna: Shining on the Stages of  Coachella & Lollapalooza

Elyanna has become a force for Arabic music on the world stage. In 2023, she made history as the first artist to sing an all Arabic set at Coachella, one of the biggest music festivals in the world. In 2024, she landed a Billboard Arabia cover, and later she brought her signature sound to Lollapalooza, blending Arabic textures with contemporary production and captivating global audiences with her distinctive vocals. In another 2024 milestone, Elyanna collaborated with Coldplay in the song “We Pray”, alongside other hit makers Lil Simz, Burna Boy, and TINI. This later led to her becoming the opening act for a tour that took the world by storm; Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour. 

Felukah: An Egyptian Voice at the Recording Academy

Rapper and singer Felukah has been crafting a distinct, self-contained hip-hop voice, blending English rap with Arabic flourishes and storytelling that deeply reconnects with her Egyptian roots. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed—she was recognized by the Recording Academy, the organization behind the Grammy Awards, further solidifying her place as an artist of global importance. In addition, Felukah went on her first headline tour “Qabl el Shams” towards the end of 2024, performing in cities like Paris and Berlin. 

Zeyne: From Colors to Sharing a Stage with Ed Sheeran

Zeyne is making major moves on the global stages, as delivered a standout performance last year of her song “Ma Bansak” on the renowned A Colors Show, a platform known for spotlighting rising talent from around the world, blending Arabic lyrics with contemporary indie pop. Zeyen is set to take things even further with her booking at the OFFLIMITS Music Festival in Abu Dhabi this April, sharing the lineup with global superstars like Ed Sheeran and OneRepublic, proving that independent artists from the region are ready for the world.

Zeina Mates: Lighting Up Toronto’s Time Square

Zeina Mates has been making waves with her R&B-inspired sound, catching the attention of Spotify EQUAL—an initiative that highlights female artists from around the world. Her face was showcased on a billboard in Toronto’s Time Square, marking a major milestone in her career. Adding to her growing recognition, Zeina also landed a spot on the cover of Vogue Arabia, further cementing her presence in the global music and fashion scenes. Her recognition on such major platforms signifies a growing appreciation for Arab artists in international music spaces, where diversity and new sounds are becoming more celebrated.

Haneen Hussain: Taking Over New York’s Times Square

Haneen Hussain was also spotlighted by Spotify EQUAL, with her image featured in New York’s Times Square. Being placed in such a high-profile location is not only an achievement for Haneen but also a moment of pride for Arab representation in the global music scene. She has also made a significant stride on the international music scene, as she collaborated with artists Ayed and Nasser Al Kubaisi on the Arabic version of “Arhbo,” featured in Ooredoo Qatar’s FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Official Soundtrack. 

Manal’s Global Rise: From Morocco to Lollapalooza Paris 

In 2023, Manal made history as she performed at Lollapalooza Paris, marking a major milestone in her global journey. In addition, she was the first Spotify EQUAL ambassador in the region. Her bold stance and powerful lyrics have resonated with audiences far beyond Morocco, earning her recognition as both a trailblazing artist and a voice for empowerment.

Cosmicat: From Saudi Arabia to Tomorrowland’s Global Stage

Cosmicat, Saudi Arabia’s pioneering female DJ and producer, has been gigging globally, with bookings in some of the biggest international electronic music festivals including from Tomorrowland to Ultra. Her fusion of techno, deep and melodic house, techno has earned her international recognition. Starting as a self-taught DJ and producer in her bedroom, she rose to fame after performing at the inaugural MDLBEAST Soundstorm in 2019, sharing the stage with international icons like Steve Aoki and David Guetta. 

Lella Fadda’s Expands Her Influence Worldwide

Lella Fadda is making waves internationally, with her her A Colors Show session, with her hit song “TARAT TARAT TAT”, off her debut album MAGNÜN.  Commanding the Colors stage in a sleek black suit, she delivers razor-sharp bars, tackling themes of resilience and gender equality. She also performed as the opening act for Marwan Pablo in Paris, further cementing her reach beyond the Arab world, in addition to performing alongside Abyusif in Berlin. 

These rising artists are proving that Arabic music is no longer confined to regional audiences—it’s taking over global stages. As International Women’s Day honors female achievements, their impact goes beyond individual success, paving the way for the next generation of women in music within the region