Bahrain TV has launched a vibrant 2026 Ramadan drama season, marking a strong return of homegrown productions that blend heritage storytelling, comedy and contemporary social themes – a move widely seen as reinforcing support for national talent while celebrating Bahraini cultural identity at the heart of the holy month.
Leading the line-up is Ghanawi Al Shouq, a large-scale heritage epic directed by acclaimed Bahraini director Ahmed Yacoob Al Muqla. The series paints a sweeping portrait of Gulf life in a bygone era, weaving together human stories, customs, traditions and folk music.
Mr Al Muqla with the cast
The production brings together a stellar cast from Bahrain and across the GCC, including top Bahraini actor Jamaan Al Ruwaie, Fatima Abdulrahim, Zahra Arafat, Shaymaa Sabt, Salwa Al Jarrash and a host of other regional stars, including Kuwaiti sensation Meshari Al Mujeibel (Headache).
Bahraini actress Fatima Abdulrahim
Speaking to Gulf Daily News, Mr Al Muqla said the series represents ‘a deeply rooted Gulf story told with a contemporary cinematic language’.
From left, Ahmed Mubarak, Shafeeqa Yousif and Mr Al Ruwaie in a scene from Ghanawi Al Shouq
“We wanted to create a work that honours our heritage while speaking to today’s audience,” he said. “The participation is wide, with leading actors from across the GCC, because our history and culture are shared.”
Mr Al Muqla, one of Bahrain’s most decorated directors, began his career as an assistant director at the Information Ministry in 1982. He rose to prominence with Ghanawi Boutaab and went on to direct landmark productions such as Hazawi Al Dar, Farjan Luwal, Malafa Al Ayaweed, Saadoon and Niran – all dubbed into multiple languages. He also co-directed the award-winning Syrian drama Al Awsaj besides winning multiple gold medals for his works.
Mr Al Qaffas, top left picture, on the right, with his cast
“This season is a turning point,” he added. “Bahraini drama is reclaiming its presence on the Gulf map with confidence and artistic ambition.”
Mr Al Muqla during the shoot
In a different vein, Ramadan will also feature the social comedy Juha Bin Juha, a modern reinterpretation of the legendary Juha character, tackling community issues with wit and satire, as well as social dramas Noba wa Toba and Darb Al Dahab, which explore contemporary human struggles and family dynamics.
Bahraini actor Jumaan Al Ruwaie in a scene
Meanwhile, prominent Bahraini director, writer and actor Mohammed Al Qaffas has announced that he has completed his new series Nos Qalb (Half a Heart) – scheduled to air after Ramadan.
Mr Al Qaffas, born in 1968, began his career as an actor in Wonders of the Past (1996) before establishing himself as a respected director. His credits include Permissible and Forbidden (2013) and No More Tears of Sorrow (2013), as well as adapting Saud Alsanousi’s International Prize for Arabic Fiction-winning novel The Bamboo Stalk into the acclaimed television series Saq Al Bamboo.
Nos Qalb tells a poignant love story set in the 1970s, shedding light on the customs and emotional complexities of that era. Egyptian-Kuwaiti actress Hiba Al Durri takes the lead role.
“We chose to air the series after Ramadan to give it the space it deserves,” Mr Al Qaffas said. “It is a nostalgic love story, but at its heart it questions how traditions shape personal destiny. Ms Al Durri brings emotional depth and authenticity to the role.”
Produced by Tiger Films in its first major television venture, the project features a Gulf and Arab ensemble cast.
Together, the Ramadan 2026 offerings and the post-season productions aim to signal a confident new chapter for Bahraini drama – one that balances heritage and innovation while strengthening its competitive presence across the Gulf.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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