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The renowned Syrian director Momen Al Mulla, director of ‘Bab Al-Hara 5’ – one of the most popular television series ever produced in the Arab world, together with his production team; and twofour54 today announced the filming of a major new Syrian drama titled ‘Hammam Shami’ at twofour54’s studios, Abu Dhabi. The announcement was made during a press conference taking place on the ‘Hammam Shami’ set.

‘Hammam Shami’ is to be aired across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region during the forthcoming Holy month of Ramadan.  It is the first ever Syrian production, on this scale, to be filmed in Abu Dhabi.

The drama of ‘Hammam Shami’ takes place in 1950s Damascus and chronicles traditional family life revolving around the time-honoured Syrian ‘Hammam’ where much of the action takes place. Harking back to the heritage of old Damascus, ‘Hammam Shami’s’ appeal is cross-generational and will draw viewers from all over the Levant region and the wider Arab world.  The show stars a celebrity cast of renowned Syrian actors including: Salim Sabri, Abdulhady Al Sabbagh, Mustafa Khani, Waha Al Raheb, Maha Al Masri, Marah Jaber, Dima Al Jundi, Ahmad El Ahmad, Wafiq Al Zaeem, Zuhair Ramadan, Jinan Al Baker, and many more.

Noura Al Kaabi, CEO of twofour54 said: “The production of this major Syrian drama here at twofour54, reinforces Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a world-class production hub and the home of original Arabic broadcasting content. We are very pleased that the partnership with Momen Al Mulla and his production team reflects our capability to facilitate the most large-scale of production projects.”

Al Kaabi added: “This series is another major production project to add to our rapidly growing portfolio.  The incentive scheme, which is administered by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission and gives a 30% cash rebate on qualifying spend in the Abu Dhabi, is proving very attractive to executive producers of international feature films, TV shows and commercials.”

Momen Al Mulla commented:“We hope ‘Hammam Shami’ will be a huge success and attract audiences from across the Arab world. This project reflects the true spirit of Damascus with an all-star cast which has previously portrayed life in Damascus flawlessly. Recreating the atmosphere of old Damascus has been challenging, but it has also allowed us to introduce new horizons to the typical Syrian drama. We have built an amazing set that replicates old Damascus perfectly.  Our Arab audience will be the judge of ‘Hammam Shami’s’ success.”

“Syrian drama continues to flourish and I would like to extend my gratitude to all who have supported this show, especially our partner twofour54 for providing us with all the support required to turn this into a successful venture. We look forward to further collaboration with twofour54 on new strategic projects.”

Asem Al Awa, Production Manager of the show, said: “With this project we are building on the strong foundations and history of drama in this region. The production of ‘Hammam Shami’ will set the standard for drama productions produced this year. This regional production collaboration is the first step in the artistic journey of Syrian drama produced in Abu Dhabi. ”

‘Hammam Shami’ will be the latest in the emerging modern tradition of the ‘Ramadan drama’. Arab satellite channels traditionally broadcast special programming each evening during Ramadan to capture audiences from families who have gathered together to eat and break the fast. Exact broadcast dates and channel are to be announced.

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