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Syrian actress Dima Kandlfat is currently filming her scenes for the new thriller miniseries “Kawalis,” a ten-episode production written by Nadine Jaber. The short-format drama marks a shift for Kandlfat as she takes on the role of an investigative journalist turned podcast host, navigating mysterious events from the past.
In “Kawalis,” Kandlfat portrays Lara Haddad, a former investigative journalist who transitions into podcasting. According to production details, the story begins when her character discovers a photo album revealing the forgotten tale of a young singer who vanished under mysterious circumstances during the 1990s. This discovery propels Lara into darker realms as she uncovers buried secrets in a dramatic narrative that exposes the hidden side of fame and celebrity culture.
Dima Kandlfat Joins Ramadan 2025 Drama Lineup
Additionally, the actress will appear in the upcoming Ramadan series “Al Nuwaylati,” starring alongside Samer al-Masri, Fadi Sabieh, and Nadine Tahseen Bek. Written by Othman Jaha and directed by Yazan Sherbaji, the series represents a significant addition to the Ramadan drama season.
In this historical fantasy drama, Kandlfat embodies the character of Khawla, described as a strong and influential woman whose life intersects with the main protagonist. According to the series synopsis, her character becomes central to the unfolding events within a dramatic plot combining power dynamics and intertwined interests amid escalating human conflicts.
Historical Fantasy Rooted in Damascus Heritage
The series belongs to the historical fantasy genre while drawing from realistic foundations inspired by the weaving profession in Damascus. The production highlights the traditional craft associated with silk production, including silkworm cultivation and silk extraction processes that defined the region’s economic identity.
Furthermore, “Al Nuwaylati” shines a spotlight on the sheikhs of the kar, master weavers who formed an essential part of Damascene identity across the centuries. The series weaves together historical authenticity with fantastical elements to create a unique viewing experience that honors Syrian cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, the dual roles showcase Kandlfat’s range as an actress, moving between contemporary thriller territory in “Kawalis” and period drama in “Al Nuwaylati.” The investigative journalist character allows her to explore modern storytelling through the podcast medium, while her role in the Ramadan series demands embodying historical power dynamics.
Short-Format Drama Gains Popularity
However, “Kawalis” represents a growing trend in Arabic drama production toward shorter, more focused series formats. The ten-episode structure allows for tighter storytelling and sustained suspense, departing from the traditional thirty-episode Ramadan format that has long dominated regional television.
In contrast to conventional dramas, the thriller miniseries format enables creators to maintain narrative tension throughout without the need for extensive subplot development. This approach has gained traction among streaming platforms and viewers seeking more condensed storytelling experiences.
The mystery surrounding the disappeared singer in “Kawalis” creates opportunities to explore themes of media ethics, truth-seeking, and the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry. According to the series premise, the investigation reveals how fame can obscure troubling realities and forgotten tragedies.
Production timelines for both series suggest completion in advance of the Ramadan broadcast window, though specific air dates have not been confirmed by the networks. Industry observers expect both dramas to compete for viewership during the highly competitive holiday season when Arabic television audiences reach their annual peak.
