Season 2 of Arabic Sesame Street Rolls Out Across GCC

Iftah Ya Simsim, an Arabic-language kids’ series based on Sesame Street, is launching its second season on national TV channels across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and parts of the MENA region this week.

The sophomore season will explore timely educational themes and introduce Elmo and Ka’aki, the voracious blue monster with an insatiable appetite for cookies. It will also feature guest appearances from well-known Arab personalities. The 52 episodes will expand on the lessons of Iftah Ya Simsim’s first season, including early vocabulary and concepts in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM).

Season two will also promote critical values such as perseverance, cooperation and teamwork. Well-known personalities, including HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed, Cabinet Member and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; HE Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs of the UAE; and singers Fayez Al Saeed and Balqees Fathi, will make appearances on the show.

Iftah Ya Simsim is produced by Bidaya Media, in association with the Arab Bureau of Education for the Gulf States, Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEC), twofour54 Abu Dhabi and Sesame Workshop. Bidaya Media partnered with Fayez Saeed Studios, Lammtara, 3Q, Ajyaal Media, Baynounah TV and twofour54 on the production of Iftah Ya Simsim.

“We’re humbled by the unwavering support of our partners who share in a commitment to produce and deliver the most engaging educational content to children in the region,” said Steve Youngwood, the chief operating officer of Sesame Workshop. “In this sophomore season, Iftah Ya Simsim continues to use storytelling, music, humor and now our beloved Elmo and Ka’aki, to explore important concepts and, ultimately, make a positive impact on today’s young minds.”

“After ten months of hard work by the team, we are very excited to launch the second season of Iftah Ya Simsim, created to help shape young minds across the Arab world,” said Dr. Cairo Arafat, the managing director of Bidaya Media. “With our new episodes, we aim to bring together modern elements of language and learning in a fun and playful way, all while keeping children rooted in Arab heritage and values. We are very grateful to our partners who have helped us bring this season to life and hope our audience enjoys watching the show as much as we liked making it.”