Ihab was born in Cairo Egypt, on August 15, 1933. From a very young age, he demonstrated a great artistic talent and his parents sent him for professional training in1947. At university, in 1952, Ihab’s professors were so impressed with his abilities, they recommended him to work at El Gomhoreya Newspaper and illustrate for children. When he graduated from the Faculty of Fine Arts in 1957, he was already renowned.

In his early years, Ihab worked as a Press Cartoonist and Illustrator in most Egyptian newspapers and magazines, as well as some magazines in France. He also created theater plays for children in Cairo and in France, while working with UNICEF. In 1968, Ihab moved to France to study animation and work with Paul Grimault. He has created 5 short animated films between Paris and Cairo. 1,2,3 (1974) received “Le prix de qualité du Centre national français” and represented France all over the world. Love Dance (1996) received “Best Animation Film” in Cairo’s National Film Festival. He was member of the jury at several animation festivals.