As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, the television industry is in full swing to complete works vying for a spot in this year's prime TV season, securing their place on screens.
In 2026, Emirati drama continues its prominent presence through a number of productions that predominantly have a social character, varying in the issues and ideas they present. These works are also marked by the significant participation of artists from various Arab countries who, through their contributions, express the nature of Emirati society, which hosts over 200 nationalities living in peace and tolerance.
Among the top Ramadan works this year is the series "Wadima and Halima," which continues its success with a fifth season airing in the upcoming Ramadan. It topped audience polls for the best works shown last Ramadan, distinguished by its local flavor reflecting Emirati society in the 1980s and 1990s, and the comedic situations and neighborly interactions it portrays. Directed by Muhammad Ibrahim and written by Jasim Khraz.
The series brings together a distinguished cast, led by Saad Ali (as Wadima), Malak Al-Khalidi (as Halima), and Marai Al-Hilyan, alongside a troupe of other artists.
Also on the list is the series "Stolen Moments," produced by "Gurnas" company, featuring a cast including Ahmed Al-Jasmi, Samira Ahmed, Habib Ghuloom, Haifa Hussein, and Muhammad Al-Dosari. Written by Anfal Al-Dawissan and directed by Egyptian Ahmed Al-Bandari, the series explores various life issues through a collection of human stories unfolding across 30 episodes.
Emirati drama's embrace of artists from different nationalities is also prominent in the second season of the series "Ba Tahda Nuqta," set in a comedic social context within a school for adult women, highlighting the humorous situations among the staff. Written by Mona Al-Zahiri and directed by Heba Al-Sayyagh, it consists of 30 episodes.
The first season of the show also saw the participation of a lineup of Arab stars, including Emiratis Jaber Ngmoush, Fatima Al-Hosni, and Latifa Al-Majren; Egyptians actresses Susan Badr and Iman Al-Sayyid; Syrian actress Shukran Murtagi, along with actors from Iraq and other Arab nations, creating a blend that simply and authentically reflects the nature of Emirati society.
Meanwhile, the series "Al-Bukht" (The Fate) brings together a group of Arab actors, helping the drama reach a broad audience across the Arab world. The cast includes Emirati Marwan Abdullah Saeed, and Egyptians Nasrin Amin, Ahmed Abdelaziz, Abier Sabry, and Ahmed Wafik. Written by Husam Moussa and directed by Motaz Husam.
The Emirati-produced series "Al-Darbah Al-Qadhia" (The Decisive Blow), a working title that may change, assembles a group of Arab actors, including Khalid Al-Qaish, Kanna Hanna, Youssef Al-Hosni, Hussein Saeed, Fatima Al-Bustaki, Ala Shaker, Dogaan Isa, and Muhammad Ibrahim. Directed by Mayar Al-Nouri, the series spans 15 episodes and follows the journey of Al-Hosni in the world of combat, intersecting with mafia conflicts in a mix of action, suspense, and human drama.
Wide Sudanese Participation in "Hanan"
Produced by the Emirati company "Al-Mazoun" for Media and Film Production, the series "Hanan" features extensive Sudanese participation, starring Ahmed Al-Jakr and Rubi Kamal. Directed by Ali Buta.
The series revolves around nostalgia for the homeland and the experiences of expatriates, attempting to present a work with a human touch and a significant addition to Sudanese drama.