Netflix announces first Arabic series ‘Jinn’

Netflix, the world’s leading internet entertainment service, has announced “Jinn”, its first Arabic original series.

The six-episode series is expected to launch all around the world in 2019. The series will feature Middle Eastern talent, and filmed in Jordan later this year.

The young adult fantasy adventure comes from Lebanese director Mir-Jean Bou Chaaya and Jordanian screenwriter, Bassel Ghandour from Oscar-nominated Theeb, partnering with the twin producers, Elan and Rajeev Dassani.

“Jinn” will be a contemporary supernatural teenage drama focused on young Arab characters. A group of teenagers’ lives are disrupted when a Jinn in the form of a teenage boy appears to them in the ancient city of Petra.

Their friendships and young romances are tested when they set out to stop an even greater darkness that is threatening to destroy the world.

“This is a great opportunity to portray Arab youth in a very unique way. The level of authenticity Netflix is trying to achieve with this show is definitely what attracted me the most to be part of this project.” said Bou Chaaya

Ghandour said, “We are really excited about this. It is very common in Middle East that people know someone who has a Jinn story, so it’s nice to take that and turn it into a fun and mysterious teen adventure that everyone can enjoy. On a broader note, I love that Netflix is investing a lot in the region, it’s a real turning point. We have such a rich storytelling culture, and we’ll finally be able to enjoy Arabic content with Netflix quality.”

“We’re delighted to be working with such a variety of breakout talent to launch our first Arabic original series in the Middle East.” said Erik Barmack, VP of International Original Series at Netflix.

“We are extremely excited to bring this story to a global audience, and to celebrate Arab youth and culture. We can’t wait to share more details later this year.”

“Jinn” is Netflix’s second project in the region. The first project, Arabic stand-up comedy Adel Karam: Live from Beirut, is due to launch on March 1.