Gamal Abdel-Rahim (November 25, 1924 – November 23, 1988) was a pioneering Egyptian composer and educator, renowned for his contributions to classical music in the Arab world. Born in Cairo, he was introduced to music by his father and pursued early musical studies supported by the Music Society of the Faculty of Arts at Cairo University. Abdel-Rahim initially graduated with a degree in history before embarking on formal music studies in West Germany. From 1950 to 1957, he studied musicology and composition under Harald Genzmer at the Hochschule für Musik Freiburg.

Upon returning to Egypt, he became a pivotal figure in music education, teaching theory and harmony at the Cairo Conservatoire. In 1971, he founded the Composition Department at the conservatoire, the first of its kind in the Arab world, significantly influencing the next generation of Egyptian composers. His students included notable figures such as Ahmed El-Saedi and Rageh Daoud.

Abdel-Rahim's compositions are characterized by the fusion of traditional Egyptian musical elements with contemporary European techniques, often incorporating Arab rhythms, melodies, and maqamat. His works span orchestral, choral, chamber music, songs, and music for films, theater, and ballet. Among his acclaimed compositions is the "Osiris Symphony."

He was honored with the State Prize for Composition and the Order of Arts by the Egyptian government. Abdel-Rahim was married to Samha El-Kholy, a distinguished musicologist and former president of the Academy of Arts in Cairo. He passed away in Frankfurt, Germany, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music.