In this episode of The Ajyal Show, we thread our way through the fascinating world of costume creation with award-winning fashion designer and stylist Saadia Khabab.

Saadia shares how her journey into cinema began unexpectedly—shifting from fashion aspirations to film sets, where she found a new canvas for expression. From styling 250 looks on her very first commercial job, to leading costume design for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 music videos and ceremony, Saadia’s career is a masterclass in creative adaptability and bold storytelling through fabric.

She opens up about the artistry and pressure behind designing for screen—where every piece must tell a story, support the scene, and withstand the chaos of fast-paced sets. Saadia walks us through her meticulous process, from script breakdowns and sketching to fittings and final looks.

But the glamour is only part of the story. Saadia speaks candidly about long shoot days, tight deadlines, and the physical demands of a job that rarely fits into neat seams. She reflects on the challenge of carving out time for rest, the value of teamwork on chaotic sets, and how moments of creative freedom—are the true reward.

This is an episode about more than style—it’s about structure, storytelling, and the quiet power of clothes to shape a scene, signal identity, and spark imagination. Whether you're dreaming of a career in design or curious about the world behind the wardrobe, this conversation is a textured look at what it means to shape character and culture—one stitch at a time.

To learn more about Doha Film Institute's initiatives, workshops and funding that help support Qatar’s filmmaking community, visit our website here.