Biography
Born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Sumaya is one of the remarkable Saudi Arabian actresses. With her charismatic personality, unique looks and talent, Sumaya came into the spotlight at a staggering pace.
At the age of 16, she left to continue her studies in the United Kingdom. In the summer of 2017, Sumaya got her first role in "Bashar" a Saudi TV show. While continuing her acting training she landed a role in "No Filter" 2018 TV show. And starred in "Another Planet" TV show and "Junoon" film later on Sumaya's very first movie "Roll'em" 2019 was the first Saudi movie to be premiered in the Kingdom cinemas following official legalization.
Sumaya also appeared in "Rashash" TV show 2021, directed by Colin Teague, a major multi million hit show in Saudi Arabia. A thriller that follows the fall of a notorious criminal who lived in 1980s Saudi Arabia. In parallel to her bold acting career, she represented Saudi Arabia in the Dubai Expo 2020 Saudi Pavillion, appearing alongside John Travolta in the short film shaping the narrative of Saudi Arabia to the world.
In 2021, Sumaya starred against Billy Zane in "Rupture" movie, where she performed both in English and Arabic. Filming took place in London and Romania with post-production in Los Angeles. Rupture (2021) aimed to change the perception of the Saudi Film industry to the world, and swept the Best Saudi Film Award at the Red Sea Film Festival in its inaugural edition. Starring Sumaya Rida, who was the ONLY Saudi female actress running for the official RSIFF competition and winning the best film award.
Furthermore, Sumaya starred in Saudi Arabia's Biggest Budget TV show to be ever produced, with a $100M budget, "Rise of Witches" is based on the best-selling fantasy novel "Orchards of Arabistan".
Sumaya is a versatile actress with a wide range of skills and experiences. She possesses strong improvisational skills and is able to project her voice in different vocal ranges. She is fluent in Arabic, English, and Turkish, with experience in various Arabic accents and dialects. Sumaya also has a strong emotional range and can convey complex emotions effectively. In addition, she has experience in stage combat, stunt work, horse riding, singing, motion capture, and voiceover work. She excels in collaborating with other actors and is able to memorize lines quickly.
Being a Saudi actress with an outstanding presence in the Film industry, Sumaya was nominated for the People's Favourite Actress Award at The Joy Awards 2021. Sumaya was also selected by the Saudi Film Commission to represent Saudi Arabia in The Venice 79th Annual International Film Festival 2022 as she was honored as one of the Most influential Arab Women who have exceptional contributions to the filmmaking world.
