Listen And Get Lost: Podcasts About MENA Lifestyle

by Alexandra Mansilla

Listen And Get Lost: Podcasts About MENA Lifestyle

27 Feb 2024

Okay, we all know the jokes about how 2024 people love podcasts... But we really do, though! So, this is why we investigated the space thoroughly and compiled a list of four beautiful podcasts for your busy workdays, nice evenings, cooking time and workouts.

These four will teach you about Arabic culture and how it is maintained across the globe in diasporas, small habits, and culture. Take a bite (or the second to listen).

Yalla! Let’s Talk

Hosted by Hani Dajani, who is, in fact, a lawyer, this series is all about self-improvement in everyday life. Talking about mental wellness, dating, and personal growth strategies, the guests speak about topics that matter to all of us.

Furthermore, authors take pride in dedicating lots of space to the popularisation of Arabic culture and empowering the Arab diaspora across the globe (first of all, in Toronto, as this is where creators are based). Like when they challenge people in Toronto to recognise Arabic rappers or name some Arabic artists.

Follow “Yalla!” for insightful conversations with talents from the Arabic community to learn about their lives and how they are united by cultural code, no matter the setting.

Curated Conversations

It is well-known, but a must- mention. This podcast is “about all things retail, business, and lifestyle in MENA”, as stated in their bio.

Hosted by Rohma Theunissen and Judy Daghestani, this Dubai-based series addresses real-life challenges and uncovers many pitfalls of the retail industry in our region.

If you are interested in launching your retail brand or genuinely want to learn more about entrepreneurship and lifestyle — this could be a great edutainment space for you to pick up some names and tips.

The Dukkan Show

Borrowed from classical Persian, Dukkan (⁧دکان⁩) means shop, which was always an important social space in Arabic cultures, functioning as the main gossip palaces.

Created by Omar Tom, Reem, and Mohamad Ali Akkaoui, The Dukkan Show podcast is essentially conversations that could take place in "Every Dukkan at every neighbourhood”, quoting the authors.

In this series, hosts and their guests engage in thought-provoking discussions about anything in this world, from hip-hop to single motherhood.

Personally, I love this piece in episode 240, also presented in their insta, about how manifestation is a very organic thing in Arabic culture. And honestly, this says it all about conversations in the Dukkan Show. It is just like sitting with your friends at dinner and talking for hours.

Gems of Arabia

Unlike others on the list, this is a Saudi-centric show. Powered by Hatem Alakeel, the award-winning designer and founder of Authenticity branding agency, this podcast is all about Arab empowerment through fashion, design, cuisine and culture at large. Giving the spotlight to emerging Saudi Arabian artists, designers, and other cultural activists, this podcast uncovers the great potential of the country and the region through its people.

Listening to this, enjoy how beautiful guests are as well as how beautiful is what they are talking about.

by Alexandra Mansilla