Huda Hussein Bets on Mystery and Horror
From psychological horror to folklore, artist Huda Hussein continues to expand her artistic horizons through three new dramatic works in preparation simultaneously, reaffirming her renewed presence in the Gulf television landscape. The three series are “Al-Hanouti,” “Al-Mahbula,” and “Layl Kharmais,” each consisting of ten episodes, in an approach that aligns with new transformations in the drama industry, where concentrated works featuring fast-paced, focused plots are attracting audiences away from traditional long-form formats.
Regarding the series “Al-Hanouti,” it is the first of these projects, through which Huda Hussein embarks on a dramatic experience relying on mystery and suspense, within a story characterized by thriller elements. Filming is scheduled to begin in the near future in Bahrain, following the completion of preparations, selection of filming locations, and assembly of the cast and crew.
Starring alongside Huda Hussein are Khaled Al-Buraiki, Shaima Ali, Farah Al-Sarraf, Suad Al-Shatti, Maram Al-Balushi, and Bathina Al-Raish. The series is written by Ali Shams and directed by Mohammed Maghrabi.
As for the second project, “Al-Mahbula,” Huda Hussein is preparing to enter its atmosphere soon. It belongs to the genre of psychological horror rooted in Gulf folklore and folk tales. The series is scheduled to air outside the 2027 Ramadan season, while final preparations and the selection of the remaining cast members are currently underway.
“Al-Mahbula” draws its narrative from a story passed down in Gulf collective memory, associated with the character “Al-Malaya,” whose name has been linked over the years to narratives featuring mystery, mysticism, and mythology. The series offers a modern television treatment of this folk heritage, within a dramatic framework built on suspense and excitement. It is written by Haitham Boudi and directed by Hussein Dashti, and is an original production of Dubai Media Incorporated.
“Layl Kharmais” represents the third milestone in Huda Hussein’s new dramatic ventures. Filming will begin in early September, paving the way for its release outside the Ramadan competition. The series relies on atmospheres inspired by Gulf folklore, through a new story based on myths and folk legends, presented with a contemporary vision suited to current audience expectations. It is written by Mohammed Shams, produced by Saudi Ali Al-Ali, and directed by Moutaz Hussam.
These three projects reveal a clear trend toward short-form drama with concentrated ideas, while also reflecting Gulf producers’ interest in re-presenting folk heritage and old tales within modern formats that blend local identity with contemporary dramatic appeal.
