In this region, we’ve got some pretty big superstars: from Nancy Ajram to Amr Diab and so many more. But what you didn’t know, is there are several other internationally known celebrities that also have some Arab DNA in them. It’s hard to forget that Gigi and Bella Hadid have Palestinian roots, but you’ll be surprised to see how many other actors, singers and innovators are also partly Arab.

Bella and Gigi Hadid

This powerful sister duo are currently two of the most famous models within the fashion industry, walking down the runway for some of the most luxurious and highly-acclaimed fashion houses internationally. Bella and Gigi are known as American supermodels, but did you know they come from Palestinian descendants? Their mother Yolanda Hadid is a former Dutch model, but their father Mohamed Hadid was born in Palestine and comes from a Palestinian Muslim family. The Hadid sisters might be half Arab, but the lineage does not stray too far and they sure are proud of their Arab roots.

Shakira

Most of us know Shakira as one of the most prominent Colombian singers of all time, but her talent and undeniable skills in the art of belly dancing definitely had us questioning if she had any Arab blood in her. You might be surprised to learn that Shakira’s paternal grandparents were full-blooded Lebanese immigrants. Her proud Arab roots definitely show through in her amazing dancing abilities which have earned her a well-deserved spot in our roundup.

 

Amal Clooney

Successful and equally beautiful human rights lawyer Amal Clooney is a full-blooded, Beirut-born woman. She is married to one of the best looking and most prominent actor/filmmakers in the business, and no one can deny that the two make the ultimate power couple. Although she moved to the UK at the age of two, she proudly acknowledges and honors her Arab roots.

Salma Hayek

Talk about a woman that can do it all; Salma Hayek, the actress and producer who is known for her successful roles in various award-winning movies including Frida and House of Gucci comes from Mexican, Spanish, and Lebanese heritage. This diverse woman is part Lebanese from her father’s side which makes her another member in our roundup that we are proud of.  

DJ Khaled

Dj Khaled, successful DJ and record producer who has worked with some of the most prominent music artists in the industry comes from Palestinian-born parents and is a first generation American. Although born in Louisiana himself, he was raised in a Palestinian household and keeps his Arab roots very close to his heart.

Rami Malek

American actor Rami Malek, famously known for his epic acting role of Freddie Mercury in the Academy Award winning movie Bohemian Rhapsody, is a descendant of Egyptian parents. His parents immigrated to the United States where he was born, yet raised him in an Arab household. His Arabian roots show through in his talent of being able to immerse himself into so many different acting roles.

Steve Jobs

Last but not least on our list is late magnate Steve Jobs, former CEO of Apple and previously one of the richest men in the world. Although he was adopted by his American parents at a very young age, his biological father was Syrian. Due to his many accomplishments he will forever remain a modern technology legend in our hearts.