The Arab audience, and the Saudi audience in particular, are preparing to welcome a promising social drama entitled “Hay Al-Jaradiyah”, which is scheduled to find its way to screens during the Ramadan season of 2026. The series belongs to the category of realistic drama that delves into the depths of Saudi society, presenting a human story that takes place in the alleys of an old popular neighborhood, where the threads of the past intertwine with the present and the stories of love, struggle and daily relationships between neighbors intertwine.
The story and events of the Al-Jaradiyah neighborhood series
The main storyline revolves around Saqr bin Sulaiman Al-Kafouf, who returns to his childhood neighborhood after years of forced absence. Saqr finds himself confronting the memories and consequences of his past, attempting to rebuild his life amidst a changed environment that still echoes with old conflicts. As the plot unfolds, Saqr faces complex challenges linked to his past, and his struggles highlight profound social and human issues concerning family, belonging, and identity in a rapidly transforming society. The series focuses on portraying the details of life in the neighborhood and the complexities of social relationships, delivering compelling dramatic elements while maintaining a realistic portrayal of the stories and events.
The context of Saudi drama and the importance of the work
The series “Hay Al-Jaradiyah” comes within the context of a remarkable evolution in Saudi drama in recent years. The industry has shifted from a heavy reliance on light comedy to producing more profound and daring works, drawing their stories from reality and the rich history of Saudi Arabia. Old neighborhoods and heritage villages have become the setting for many successful series, as they represent the collective memory of the community and provide rich material for stories that resonate with viewers. The Ramadan season is considered the most important arena for showcasing these large-scale productions, with channels and platforms competing to attract the largest audience in the Arab region.
Expected impact locally and regionally
The significance of works like "Al-Jaradiyah Neighborhood" lies in their ability to document an important period in the history of Saudi cities, such as Riyadh, and to offer a vivid portrayal of the social relationships that prevailed at the time. Locally, the series is expected to evoke nostalgia among older generations and introduce younger generations to the lifestyle of their parents and grandparents. Regionally, the work provides a cultural window for Arab viewers to learn about the nuances of Saudi society, thus fostering cultural and artistic exchange. With its release on the leading platform "Shahid," the series gains the opportunity to reach a wider audience, contributing to the enhanced standing of Saudi content on the international stage.
The cast of the Al-Jaradiyah neighborhood series
Behind this work stands a professional artistic team. The story was written by Ibrahim Al-Naami, and the direction was handled by Munir Al-Zoubi, who possesses extensive experience in Gulf drama. The series stars the renowned actor Ibrahim Al-Hasawi, alongside a distinguished cast. It is produced by Al-Sadaf Production and Distribution Company, owned by producer Hassan Asiri. The series is scheduled to air on MBC Drama and the Shahid platform, guaranteeing its wide reach during Ramadan.
