Comedy has always been a cornerstone of Syrian drama, delighting audiences for decades with series that turned every day evenings into cherished family time. We will never forget gathering in front of the TV with our moms, sipping coffee, and nibbling on sweets as we caught up on the latest antics of our favorite on-screen characters. Who could forget when Bassem Yakhour dominated the comedy scene, shining as one of the industry’s rising stars? What about the unforgettable performances of Samia El Jazeri in iconic roles like Jameel W Hanna or Madame W?
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re craving a dose of that nostalgia—those chill, laughter-filled evenings of Syrian comedy at its finest. That’s why we’ve put together a list of our all-time favorite Syrian comedy series to help you relive those golden moments.
‘Sah El Nom’
One of the earliest and most iconic Syrian comedy series, Sah El Nom left a lasting mark on Arab entertainment. Premiering in 1972, it featured unforgettable characters like Ghawar Al-Toshe (Duraid Lahham) and Hosni Al-Borazan (Nihad Qalai). Set in the neighborhood of “Kol Min Ido Elo,” the story revolves around hilarious events in the humble Sah El Nom Hotel. Despite being filmed in black and white, its timeless humor continues to resonate with audiences.
‘Al-Bina’ 22’ (Building 22)
Building 22 humorously depicts the daily lives of residents in a Damascus apartment building. Led by the quirky character Bahloul (Issam Suleiman), the series explores neighborly interactions with lighthearted humor. Premiering in 1990, it remains a beloved classic for its authentic reflection of Syrian communal life.
‘Homey Hon’
This 2004 series offers a comedic glimpse into the life of a traditional Damascus family. Each episode tackles a different social issue with charm and humor, making it a favorite for family viewing. Its relatable characters and cheerful atmosphere has captivated audiences across generations.
‘Yawmiyat Jameel Wa Hana’ (The Diaries of Jameel and Hana)
A standout Syrian comedy that first aired in 1997, it follows Jameel’s (Ayman Zeidan) comedic attempts to win back his wife Hana’s (Norman Asaad) attention. The couple’s humorous escapades created a memorable portrayal of married life, making it a beloved classic in Syrian television.
‘Dunia’
Dunia tells the story of a young rural girl (Amal Arafa) navigating life in Damascus with her friend Tarfa (Shukran Mortaja). Since its 1999 debut, Dunia has become a comedy staple as viewers couldn’t wait to see what kind of hilarious adventures the duo got up to together.
‘Batal Min Hatha Al-Zaman’ (A Hero of This Time)
Starring Ayman Zeidan, this series humorously explores the struggles of a government employee striving to improve his family’s living conditions. Premiering in 1999, it delivers a satirical take on the daily challenges faced by middle-class Syrians.
‘Qillat Zouq Wa Katheeret Ghalaba’ (Lack of Manners and Plenty of Chaos)
This series portrays the life of a widowed father (Qusai Khouli) raising his children while searching for a new partner. Filled with pranks and lighthearted moments, it reflects family dynamics in a comedic and relatable way.
‘Eilaty Wa Ana’ (My Family and Me)
This sitcom tells the story of a businessman facing financial ruin and resorting to small projects for survival. Featuring legendary actors Duraid Lahham and Salma Al-Masri, it first aired in 1999.
‘Al-Waq Waq’
Set on a remote island, this 2018 series follows a group of shipwreck survivors as they deal with their contradictions and conflicts. Featuring stars like Bassem Yakhour and Rashid Assaf, it uses humor to address human behavior and survival instincts in unique circumstances.
‘De’ia Dayia’ (The Lost Village)
One of the most popular Syrian comedy series, De’ia Dayia is set in a remote village and captures the humorous daily lives of its residents. Premiering in 2008, it’s known for its coastal dialect and witty dialogues. Starring Bassem Yakhour and Nidal Sejri, the series is revered for its comedic take on social and political issues.
