Art and Culture

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has introduced a new animated series titled ‘Badr Al Musahar’, bringing a fresh and imaginative take on one of Ramadan’s most cherished traditions. The series blends science fiction storytelling with Emirati heritage, highlighting the spirit of community and cultural identity during the holy month.

Launched on March 10, 2026, the production was created in collaboration with Emirati director Haider Mohammed and forms part of the Season of Wulfa, an initiative celebrating family bonds, cultural traditions and togetherness during Ramadan. The project also contributes to the broader Ramadan in Dubai campaign, which showcases cultural experiences and community activities across the emirate.

Reimagining a Ramadan Tradition

The series centres around the Musahar, a traditional figure who would walk through neighbourhoods before dawn during Ramadan, waking residents for Suhoor with rhythmic drumbeats and chants. Through an engaging narrative and futuristic setting, the show reintroduces this beloved tradition to younger audiences while preserving its cultural significance.

The story follows Badr, a young boy living with his parents in a settlement on the Moon. When Ramadan begins, he travels to Dubai to stay with his grandmother, where he becomes determined to revive the role of the Musahar — a tradition once carried out by his grandfather, who was the last Musahar in the neighbourhood.

Using his grandfather’s tabila (drum), lantern and khaizrana (bamboo cane), Badr gathers neighbourhood children to perform traditional chants and wake residents for Suhoor, bringing the warmth of Emirati community life back to the streets.

Celebrating Emirati Neighbourhood Life

The 15-episode animated series will be broadcast on Dubai Culture’s official YouTube channel, making it accessible to audiences of all ages.

Beyond the storyline, the episodes recreate the atmosphere of the Dubai freej, the traditional neighbourhood known for its close-knit community spirit, local dialects and shared traditions. Through this setting, the series reflects the importance of balancing cultural authenticity with modern storytelling techniques, ensuring traditions remain relevant to future generations.

Supporting Local Creative Talent

Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted the importance of animation inspired by local heritage in strengthening cultural awareness among younger audiences.

She noted that productions such as ‘Badr Al Musahar’ play a vital role in bringing cultural stories and social values to life, while also supporting the growth of the UAE’s creative industries.

Al Suwaidi added that the series demonstrates the ability of Emirati creatives to produce culturally rooted content that resonates with modern audiences, reinforcing national identity and social cohesion.

A Contemporary Approach to Heritage

Director Haider Mohammed emphasised that presenting traditional stories in new formats is both a cultural and artistic responsibility.

He explained that the animated series aims to reconnect younger generations with the spirit of the Emirati freej, highlighting the warmth and sense of togetherness that define Ramadan.

According to Mohammed, the project shows that progress does not require abandoning heritage. Instead, modern storytelling and visual technology can help revive and preserve traditions, ensuring they remain an essential part of the UAE’s cultural identity.

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