

XP News: Marwan Moussa Wins Egyptian Artist of the Year at BIAF 2025
By Sara Wael
August 12 2025
XP News: Marwan Moussa Wins Egyptian Artist of the Year at BIAF 2025
By Sara Wael
August 12 2025
Rapper and producer Marwan Moussa was named Egyptian Artist of the Year at the 2025 Beirut International Awards Festival (BIAF), marking a notable achievement for his career and reflecting the growing presence of hip-hop in the region.
Upon receiving the award, Moussa took to the stage with heartfelt emotion, dedicating the win to his late mother, before lighting up the stage with a live performance of his hit track “Batal 3alam.” This presence added a contemporary edge to the evening, showing how rap and hip-hop are now part of the region’s mainstream cultural voice.
“This award means so much to me,” Moussa shared after the ceremony. “I put my heart and soul into this project, creating it especially for my mother. It feels incredible to see people connect with this conceptual album and to share my emotions with my fans.”
Reflecting on the moment, he also expressed gratitude to his team: “I want to give a special thanks to my management for their constant support.”
Held in the heart of Beirut this August, the 12th edition of BIAF unfolded over two days of celebration, honoring achievements across music, film, art, humanitarian work, and more. This year’s edition paid tribute to poet and philosopher Saiid Akl, while also celebrating the legacy of Ziad Rahbani—both towering figures whose work helped shape Lebanese cultural identity.
Moussa, whose music is influenced by a wide range of voices, was moved by the ceremony’s tribute to the late Ziad Rahbani. “I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Ziad Rahbani, whose music and experience inspired my father and, in turn, inspired me,” he said, honoring the artist’s lasting impact across generations.
Receiving an award in such a culturally rich city added weight to the moment, reinforcing the deep ties between his artistry and the region’s creative legacy, as he expressed “Beirut will always remain a city close to my heart—a place where I find joy and inspiration every time I visit.”
The ceremony also saw appearances by regional stars including Massari, George Nehme, and Maya Diab, while awarding other artists for their contributions—among them, Lebanese soprano Abeer Nehme, who received the “First Star” award.
More than just a red carpet celebration, BIAF continues to highlight the stories behind the stars — their passions, struggles, and influence. Marwan Moussa’s recognition stands as a testament to the evolution of Egyptian music and the artists who dare to shape its future.
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