
Dubai Studios unveils Ramadan lineup with eight premium productions
Dubai Studios has announced the lineup of eight premium productions for the Holy Month of Ramadan. The diverse slate ranges from local Emirati stories to Khaleeji dramas and co-productions from Syria and Lebanon, reflecting the studio's commitment to high-quality storytelling that resonates across the region.
With seven of these productions deeply rooted in Emirati and Khaleeji narratives, Dubai Studios continues to shape the regional content landscape while also expanding its reach through strategic partnerships with top-tier producers across MENA. The studio's partnerships extend to top-tier creatives across MENA, including two standout productions from Syria and Lebanon—one premiering during Ramadan and the other scheduled for post-Ramadan release.
Speaking about the shows, Salem Al Youha Almheiri, General Manager of Dubai Studios, said: 'At Dubai Studios, we believe in the power of storytelling to connect cultures and inspire audiences. This Ramadan, we take pride in presenting a lineup that reflects our deep commitment to diverse narratives, exceptional talent, and meaningful collaborations. Each project is a testament to our vision of bringing stories to life—because this is truly 'Where the Story Is'.'
He added that Dubai Studios continues to build momentum with an expanding slate that now includes feature films, beginning with City of Life Continuum , recently announced, alongside other exciting projects in the pipeline.
Layali Roxy (Syrian Drama) stars acclaimed actors Ayman Zidan and Sulaf Fawakherji in a tale set in 1920s Syria, a period of cultural and social upheaval. The series also marks the long-awaited reunion of Mona Wassef and Duraid Lahham, who last shared the screen 43 years ago in Wadi Al Musk (1982). Directed by Mohammed Abdulaziz, the show blends power struggles, forbidden love and drama to offer a fresh perspective on the Damascene era.
Starring Hayat Al Fahd alongside Ibrahim Al Hasawy, Afkar Ommy (Khaleeji Drama) follows the story of Shahah, a strong-willed matriarch whose unyielding control over her family fuels deep-seated tensions and daily conflicts, offering an intricate exploration of family dynamics.
A major highlight of the season, Al Cirque (Khaleeji Comedy) reunites Khaleeji acting powerhouses Dawood Hussein and Hassan Al Balam after two decades. Featuring a star-studded ensemble, the show follows a group of convicts sentenced to community service, who unexpectedly find themselves working as clowns in a circus. Under the watchful eye of Shabeeb, they learn that the more they make the audience laugh, the sooner they secure their freedom.
Baab Al Seen (Khaleeji Social Comedy) explores themes of family bonds, traditions and modern challenges. Directed by Emirati filmmaker Nahla Al Fahad and written by Maryam Nasser and Maryam Al Qallaf, the show follows a man's struggle to reunite his estranged siblings while balancing life as a single father. The series blends heartfelt connections with comedic twists for a refreshing take on family and belonging.
A suspenseful mystery drama, Al Masaar unravels a web of secrets within a family shaken by the death of its patriarch. As tensions rise, hidden agendas and power struggles emerge, creating an atmosphere of intrigue. Directed by Bassem Shaabo and written by Mohammed Al-Enezi and Badr Al-Jazzaf, the show boasts a stellar cast including Mohammed Al-Mansour, Hussein Al-Mansour, and Suzan Najm Al-Din.
Watan Omri (Emirati Drama) this emotional drama follows Dr. Badr as he grapples with love, societal expectations, and personal struggle. Torn between following his heart and surrendering to fate, he must navigate difficult choices. Directed by Ammar Radwan and written by Maryam Al Zaabi, Watan Omri features Abdulrahman Al Mulla, Layla Al Maqbali, Fatima Al Hosani and Khaled Al Banai.
Dannoun (Emirati Comedy), a comedy following Dannoun, a school bus driver with three wives, whose relentless pursuit of wealth leads to endless mishaps. Directed by Saif Al Sheikh Najib and written by Abdullah Zaid , who stars alongside Ahmed Malallah , Ahmed Al Ansari , Huda Al Ghanem , and Amina Abdulrasoul . Trouble escalates when Sanqoor, newly released from prison, seeks revenge, bringing an unexpected twist to Dannoun's life.
Back for its highly anticipated fourth season, Wadeema & Halima delivers its most dynamic chapter yet. Following its remarkable success and high viewership in the previous season, the series returns with new conflicts, unexpected twists, and fresh characters that add depth and excitement to the story. The season features an all-star cast including Suad Ali , Malak Al Khaldi , Marai Al Halyan , Ahmed Abdul Razzak , Amal Mohammed , and Mohammed Al Mazem .
These series are widely available across major TV channels and digital platforms in the region, ensuring high audience engagement throughout the holy month.
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