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Kuwaiti actor Hamad Al-Omani is set to compete in the Ramadan drama race with two major television series this year. According to reports from Cairo, Al-Omani will appear in “Years of Darkness” and “Small Steps,” both scheduled to air during the highly competitive Ramadan viewing season. The announcement confirms the actor’s growing prominence in Gulf television production.
“Years of Darkness” features Al-Omani alongside actors Abdullah Al-Tulaihi and Intisar, under the direction of Mohamed Salama. The series tells the true story of a young man whose life is upended just as he prepares for his wedding when he faces fabricated charges and spends seven years wrongfully imprisoned.
Hamad Al-Omani Takes on Dual Ramadan Roles
The narrative of “Years of Darkness” follows the protagonist through his ordeal of false imprisonment, during which he loses his health. However, even after his innocence is proven and he is released, his challenges and suffering continue for more than 18 years. The series aims to highlight issues of justice and the lasting impact of wrongful conviction on individuals and their families.
Meanwhile, Hamad Al-Omani’s second project, “Small Steps,” places him alongside prominent stars Mohamed Al-Ramadan and Heba Al-Durri. Written by Anfal Al-Dweisan and directed by Munir Al-Zoabi, the series tackles contemporary humanitarian issues affecting families and society. The production focuses on the details of daily life through a realistic approach that emphasizes the human dimension.
Ramadan Drama Competition Intensifies
The Ramadan television season represents the most competitive period for Arabic-language drama productions, with networks and streaming platforms vying for viewer attention. Additionally, the season has become a crucial showcase for actors seeking to expand their audience reach across the Arab world. Productions typically feature high budgets and star-studded casts to attract maximum viewership during the holy month.
Al-Omani’s participation in two series simultaneously demonstrates his rising status within the regional entertainment industry. The actor’s selection for both a social drama and a true-story series reflects the versatility that producers seek in leading performers. Industry observers note that dual roles during Ramadan can significantly boost an actor’s profile.
“Small Steps” distinguishes itself through its focus on relatable family dynamics and social issues that resonate with contemporary audiences. In contrast to historical or action-oriented productions, the series adopts an intimate storytelling style. The collaboration between writer Anfal Al-Dweisan and director Munir Al-Zoabi suggests a character-driven narrative approach.
True Stories and Social Commentary
The choice to adapt a real-life story for “Years of Darkness” reflects a broader trend in Ramadan programming toward authentic narratives. Such productions often generate significant public discussion about justice system reform and human rights issues. However, the series balances its serious themes with the dramatic elements necessary to engage viewers throughout the month-long viewing period.
Both productions featuring Hamad Al-Omani address themes central to Gulf societies, including family relationships, social justice, and personal resilience. The emphasis on humanitarian issues in “Small Steps” and the wrongful imprisonment narrative in “Years of Darkness” provide audiences with thought-provoking content. These themes align with increasing demand for socially conscious entertainment that goes beyond pure escapism.
The exact premiere dates for both series have not been officially confirmed by the production companies or broadcasting networks. Typically, Ramadan drama schedules are finalized and announced in the weeks immediately preceding the holy month, allowing networks to maximize promotional impact and audience anticipation.
