If 10 years ago one of the first questions you would ask a stranger to get to know them better was “What is your favourite book?” — today, it could easily be “What is your favourite podcast?” And no wonder. There are now over 2 million podcasts out there, with billions of listeners tuning in globally.
According to recent stats, 1 in every 16 people on Earth listens to podcasts — a pretty big number, especially considering how children and the elderly affect the data. And yes, the Arabic-speaking world has its own favourites too! Below are some of the best Arabic podcasts worth listening to right now.
Business & entrepreneurship
Conversations With Loulou
The host of this podcast, Loulou, is an entrepreneur herself, which makes her deeply connected to the world of business. While she lives in the UAE, the podcast focuses on the entire MENA region — covering everything from startups to established companies across various industries.
What to expect:
Engaging conversations with entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, ranging from automotive to hospitality. Some of the most popular episodes feature Omran Sharaf, who led the UAE’s Mars mission, and Charlie Wright, founder of Humantra — one of the fastest-growing electrolyte brands in MENA.
Where to listen:
Conversational podcasts: Culture, lifestyle & business
Hikmat Wehbi Podcast
If you asked me to place this podcast in just one category, I would hesitate. But if I had the freedom to pick five, I would say it sits somewhere between business, culture, sports, TV, and content creation.
What to expect:
Hosted by Hikmat Wehbi, this podcast brings together well-known guests from diverse fields to explore their personal stories, passions, and professional journeys. Popular episodes include conversations with Dr. Kareem Ali, who shares insights into clinical toxicology and therapeutic nutrition; Kasem Hato, a Jordanian-Palestinian journalist who has travelled to 94 countries, offering a unique lens on the world; and Amy Roko, a Saudi comedian and rapper reflecting on her career and the evolving role of women in the arts.
Where to listen:
#ABtalks
If you live in the UAE, you have likely come across #ABtalks — even if you don't speak Arabic. This podcast, also available on YouTube, blends deep, emotional conversations with high-profile guests. While most episodes are in Arabic, several are available in English as well.
What to expect:
Much like other conversational podcasts, #ABtalks does not follow a single theme — topics vary depending on the guest. Host Anas Bukhash creates space for raw, honest dialogue around life, identity, and personal growth.
Some of the most popular guests include Huda Kattan — founder of the beauty brand Huda Beauty; Ronaldinho — Brazilian football legend and World Cup champion; and Wegz — Egyptian rapper best known for his hit track Dorak Gai.
Where to listen:
Psychology
Rawan’s Diaries
Launched in 2024, Rawan’s Diaries quickly captured attention across the Arabic-speaking world — and it is no surprise why. Psychology has become an increasingly popular topic in the region.
What to expect:
At its core, this podcast is about self-reflection, personal growth, and mental well-being. Rawan brings on a range of guests — from psychology experts to close friends sharing their personal experiences — to explore what it means to grow emotionally and mentally.
Some of the most popular episodes include "Love and Letting Go" — dedicated to the power of moving forward, and "The Power of Words" — an exploration of how self-talk shapes our lives.
Where to listen:
True crime
Sawaleef Tareeq (سوالف طريق)
If true crime is your guilty pleasure or your go-to way to unwind, this podcast might be just what you need. It is especially popular in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait — offering just the right mix of suspense and mystery to keep your nerves tingling.
What to expect:
Each episode lasts around 15 to 20 minutes and dives into the details of famous and mysterious crimes that took place across the Gulf region — from recent cases to lesser-known stories from the past.
Where to listen:
Comedy
Trust Us Podcast
This podcast is a perfect example of what is called educatainment — a blend of fun and fascinating facts shared by the guests. By the way, if you are into gaming, you are in for a treat — many episodes are dedicated to it.
What to expect:
Plenty of laughs, engaging interviews with standout figures from the Arab world, and a fresh perspective on modern Arabic culture. You will dive into the evolution of YouTube and Twitch in the MENA region, hear personal stories, and discover how digital life is shaping a new generation.
Where to listen:
Bonus: For those who study Arabic
A Bit of Arabic
This podcast is truly a gem for anyone studying Arabic. The focus is on the Levantine dialect, but it is also highly useful for learners of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), as many words overlap. Additionally, most Arabic speakers in the UAE use either the Levantine or Gulf dialects, so you will begin to understand both with ease.
What to expect:
In this podcast you will find useful vocabulary and phrases, cultural insights, short lessons, as well as stories and interviews designed to help you practice what you hear and improve your listening skills.
Where to listen:
Things You Need to Know About Arabic… and English
The great thing about this podcast is its focus on Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), the form of Arabic used in news broadcasts, formal statements, and in the Qur'an. It is a perfect gem for English speakers, as the episodes are delivered in both languages simultaneously — making it especially helpful for beginners.
What to expect:
The host explores translation challenges, essential Arabic expressions, and common mistakes made by learners. The episodes follow a comparison format — English to Arabic — offering a fun and effective way to learn through association, while recognising similarities and distinctions between the two languages.
Where to listen:
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