As Saudi Arabia prepares for its historic hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a groundbreaking television series is offering authentic insight into the Kingdom’s grassroots social evolution. “Ozoum,” currently dominating prime time ratings on the Saudi Broadcasting Authority’s main channel, has captured national attention through its raw and honest portrayal of everyday citizens breaking social barriers.
Unlike internationally-targeted content, “Ozoum” airs exclusively on domestic television in Arabic, making its widespread success particularly significant. The show has become a cultural phenomenon, consistently ranking as the most-watched programme in its time slot, with viewers particularly engaged by its authentic approach to storytelling.
“What makes this show different is that it’s made for our local audience,” explains Mohammed Al Hamed, supervisor producer from SBA. “These are real Saudi stories, told in our language, addressing our challenges. The fact that it’s become one of our highest-rated show proves there’s a genuine appetite for content that reflects our society’s transformation.”
Each episode of “Ozoum,” hosted by celebrated Saudi presenter Ahmed El Bayed, showcases individuals overcoming societal barriers. Stand-out stories include a disabled woman who fought to achieve her dream of obtaining a driving licence. Her journey, aired just three years after Saudi Arabia granted women the right to drive, resonated deeply with viewers and sparked widespread social media discussion about accessibility and independence.
Another powerful narrative features a young woman with Down’s syndrome who challenged perceptions by pursuing her acting ambitions. The episode not only documented her successful journey to securing roles in local productions but also prompted several Saudi production companies to implement inclusive hiring policies.
The series also follows a teenage cancer survivor whose story of rebuilding confidence and securing employment at a prestigious Riyadh hotel has inspired other businesses to expand their inclusion initiatives.
The show’s creation marks a historic milestone in Saudi broadcasting, stemming from a collaboration between Saudi Broadcasting Authority and Pink Llama Films, a British production company – making it the first non-Arab company to produce a prime-time show for Saudi domestic television. The series is helmed by internationally acclaimed director Timothy Baker, known for directing “Wake Up Call” with Dwayne Johnson, who sees parallels between Saudi Arabia’s current social evolution and broader global movements toward inclusion.
“What’s remarkable about ‘Ozoum’ is its authenticity,” Baker explains. “This isn’t a show created for international audiences – it’s Saudi Arabia talking to itself about its own transformation. The stories we’re telling reflect real changes happening at a community level. As the country prepares to welcome the world in 2034, these narratives demonstrate how social progress is being driven from within.”
The programme’s impact extends beyond television ratings. Several episodes have sparked national dialogues about disability rights, youth employment, and social inclusion. Local businesses have reached out to featured participants, leading to employment opportunities and community initiatives.
“The response shows that Saudi society is ready and eager for these conversations,” notes Al Hamed. “When we see a young cancer survivor not just surviving but thriving, or challenge preconceptions about Down’s syndrome, it changes perceptions. These aren’t just television stories – they’re catalysts for real change in our communities.”
As Saudi Arabia continues its preparations for the 2034 World Cup, “Ozoum” provides evidence of how the nation is evolving organically from within. The show’s success on domestic television, rather than international platforms, underscores that this evolution is being driven by local demand for progress rather than external pressures.
“Ozoum” airs weekly during prime time on SBA’s main channel, consistently drawing millions of viewers and generating significant social media engagement across the Middle East.
