By: Khaled Tayeh

RAMALLAH, December 14, 2025 (WAFA) - Following two years of hard work, challenges, numerous changes, unwavering commitment, and often overwhelming conditions, the moment has finally arrived: the cast has gathered, the crew is ready, the lights are on, and the audience can hardly wait to discover who “Ibn al-Sheikh” is.

“Ibn al-Sheikh,” which literally translates to “The Son of the Sheikh,” is a Palestinian-produced television series—originally written by a Palestinian author, produced by Palestinian companies, and, by definition, featuring a 100 percent Palestinian cast.

Produced by Elia Production and Kawader Production, the series, which its creators describe as the first Palestinian television show of its kind, made its debut on YouTube on December 12, 2025. Its release was marked by a special launch event at Al-Qasaba Cinema in Ramallah, where the trailer and first episode were screened before an audience of artists, filmmakers, and cultural enthusiasts.

“Ibn al-Sheikh” is directed by Mohammad Najjar—who also stars in the series—alongside Amir Zabana and Ahmad Abu Fukhaidah, the author of the novel “A Hakatha Kont Athon,” upon which the show is based. The series focuses on a range of social issues affecting Palestinian youth. Across 15 episodes, it follows its characters as they confront and navigate the challenges within their community.

The series stars a group of young Palestinian actors, including Mohammad Najjar, Bashar Zagharneh, Mays Hijjawi, Zakaria Salameen, Bara Muweis, Issa Hatu, Imtiyaz Shakeeb, and Ayham Al-Sheikh, among others. What makes the cast particularly notable is that, for the majority of them, this series marks their first acting experience.

Mohammad Najjar, who portrays Khaled, describes his character as controversial, offering a perspective that differs from conventional viewpoints on several issues.

“I don’t want to get into too many details, as I don’t want to spoil the show for people, but my character is a special one,” Najjar said. “The script attracted me like no other. It’s a Palestinian story that deserves to be told because it doesn’t provide answers—it asks questions and challenges people’s awareness.”

When asked about the message he hopes to convey through his character, Najjar said, “We need to be more thoughtful when analyzing things, especially those that may appear good on the outside but carry a different meaning beneath the surface. Nothing is ever exactly what it seems.”

“It’s a historic moment for Palestinian drama, to say the least,” Najjar added. “Not only for us as the show’s team, but because the entire project is deeply special. It provides a narrative about compliance, asks important questions, and refuses to follow the same old stereotypical image of Palestinians. Palestinians are normal people—they get tired, they break, they make mistakes, but they also experience victory in the end.”

Zakaria Salameen, a gym coach who stars in the series as Karam, describes the character as “a student who faces challenges shaped by the country’s circumstances.”

As this is his first acting experience, Salameen said that what attracted him most to the role was the lifestyle his character represents. He added that once people watch the show, they will understand how young men often endure significant struggles in pursuit of experience—sometimes in ways that can ultimately lead them down the wrong path.

Issa Hatu, another young co-star who plays Fady, says his character closely mirrors his real-life persona, describing himself as a caring, down-to-earth person who looks out for his friends.

Hatu added that he felt a sense of responsibility when offered a role in a show that tackles social issues faced by Palestinian young men, noting that the series aims to deliver its message thoughtfully.

Waseem Abu Thuhaiba, the production manager and sound master, discussed the challenges the team faced due to the situation in Palestine. Travel between cities in the West Bank was often difficult, and transporting filming equipment from location to location posed additional obstacles.

He also noted that the lack of an official sponsor was a challenge, but expressed hope that the show would succeed, as it stands out from other TV productions in Palestine.

Mays Hijjawi, who plays Haneen, was excited to finally see audience reactions after doing her own hair for the role. She describes her character as a close-minded, conservative young woman who prioritizes her father’s words. Though simple in nature, Haneen has a significant impact on the story.

Hijjawi added that the story felt very real to her, which motivated her to take the role. She said she would accept any role offered because she is captivated by how authentic the show’s narrative is.

Bashar Zaghareh, who plays the main character Sami, described him as a hard-working young man from a middle-class family. He noted that he plays two characters, which was a major factor in his decision to join the cast. Zaghareh said he prepared for the role meticulously, even practicing in front of a mirror, and hopes audiences will see how his character overcomes challenges.

Imtiyaz Shakeeb, who plays Um Amr—a mother of two married to a suspicious businessman—explained that her character represents many married women who are emotionally neglected by their husbands but financially comfortable, struggling to control their children. Shakeeb contributed to developing her character and expressed her happiness in collaborating with the producers.

She emphasized the importance of actors reflecting real experiences through their art and noted that, as a Palestinian actress, participating in a “first-of-its-kind” show during challenging times in Palestine was very meaningful. She hopes the series, along with the team’s efforts, brings a little light into people’s lives through entertainment.

Bara Muweis, who plays the narcissistic Amr, described his character as full of surprises. Though Amr may act mean at times, Muweis stressed that this does not reflect his real personality, and it was precisely this contrast that attracted him to the role. He encouraged audiences not to judge his character too harshly and expressed gratitude for participating in a fully Palestinian-made production, which made him feel a strong sense of responsibility. Muweis humorously added that he was excited for viewers to see his car in the show.

Mohammad Yaseen, who portrays an antagonist in the series, said working with the crew was easy due to their friendly atmosphere.

Overall, the cast unanimously described the experience as warm and familial, saying the set felt like a second home to them.

K.T