Born in Rabat, Simone Bitton has written and directed several documentary films that have contributed to increased understanding of the current events, history and cultures of the MENA region. Her commitment to formal rigour and attention to artistic demands has resulted in her films being selected for many prestigious festivals, where they have won numerous awards. Several of her documentaries are considered reference works and are broadcast on a regular basis. Among her best-known films are: Ziyara (2020); Rachel (2010); Wall (2005); Mahmoud Darwich (1998); Palestine, histoire d'une terre (1993); Les grandes voix de la chanson arabe (1990). Bitton has taught in the cinema department of the University of Paris VIII since 2013.