Ramallah: 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.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, '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.'
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.
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.
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.
Mays Hijjawi, who plays Haneen, describes her character as a close-minded, conservative young woman who prioritizes her father's words. Hijjawi added that the story felt very real to her, which motivated her to take the role.
Bashar Zaghareh, who plays the main character Sami, described him as a hard-working young man from a middle-class family. Zaghareh said he prepared for the role meticulously, even practicing in front of a mirror.
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.
Bara Muweis, who plays the narcissistic Amr, described his character as full of surprises. Muweis encouraged audiences not to judge his character too harshly and expressed gratitude for participating in a fully Palestinian-made production.
Overall, the cast unanimously described the experience as warm and familial, saying the set felt like a second home to them.