Lead:
Entertainment and culture activities are expanding across the Arab world this season, with major platforms investing in training programmes and production partnerships. From creative development initiatives to heritage celebrations and international co-productions, the sector is capturing audience attention through both emerging talent and established figures returning to the screen.
Top Stories:
Netflix and Writers House programme completion — Netflix and Writers House have concluded the "Write the Future: Narrative Filmmaking Lab" training initiative across three regions of Saudi Arabia, supporting emerging screenwriters in the kingdom. The programme targeted aspiring writers and provided structured mentorship in feature film development.Mona Zaki returns to television drama — Egyptian actress Mona Zaki has returned to television production after a three-year hiatus through the series "Talaa Nazil," which has begun filming for release on the Shahid platform. The production brings together Zaki and actor Hani Khalifa for the new dramatic project.Moatasem Al-Nahar completes first Egyptian drama — Syrian actor Moatasem Al-Nahar has finished filming his debut Egyptian television drama "I Am You... You Are Not Me" in Cairo, revealing production details about his acting experience in the Egyptian television industry. The series represents his first dramatic work produced in Egypt.King Abdulaziz Library celebrates Arabic calligraphy — King Abdulaziz Public Library in Riyadh is marking World Arabic Calligraphy Day through specialized exhibitions, workshops, and children's competitions that highlight the aesthetic qualities of Arabic script. The celebration aims to preserve and promote traditional calligraphy arts.International falcon auction 2026 — The National Falcon Centre in Malham, north of Riyadh, is organizing an international falcon breeding farm auction in 2026 featuring multiple species including gyrfalcons, peregrine falcons, and Arabian falcons. The event showcases the diversity of falconry breeding in the kingdom.Daqq Daqq 77 global reach — A Yemeni agricultural workers' chant titled "Daqq Daqq Seventy-Seven" has unexpectedly reached millions of screens worldwide, becoming a cross-border cultural phenomenon. The simple rhythm and organic lyrics from Yemen's farming communities have generated international audience engagement.Coming Up:
The Shahid platform will release "Talaa Nazil" featuring Mona Zaki and Hani Khalifa. The 2026 international falcon breeding auction will take place at the National Falcon Centre in Riyadh.