Ramadan 2026 in Egypt Faces Unprecedented Delays and Star Withdrawals

With less than two months until the start of the Ramadan 2026 drama season, the Egyptian entertainment industry is experiencing significant turmoil. A series of delays and production challenges have led to the withdrawal of several prominent stars from the Ramadan lineup.

* Yousra Withdraws from "Harem Al-Safir" Series

Star Yousra was the first to announce her departure, citing delays in her new series "Harem Al-Safir." The project faced multiple setbacks, beginning with the exit of director Rami Imam, who was replaced by Abdel Aziz Al-Najjar. Further production crises ultimately resulted in the series being canceled for Ramadan.

* Mohamed Henedi Postpones "Qandil" to 2027

Actor Mohamed Henedi had been preparing for his return to drama with the series "Qandil," in collaboration with writer Youssef Maati, known for the hit series "Monsieur Ramadan Mabrouk Abou Al-Alamein Hamouda." Despite initial preparations and casting choices including Dalia Mostafa and Mahmoud Hafez, the production company announced that the series would be postponed until Ramadan 2027, meaning Henedi will miss the upcoming season.

* Mai Ezzidine Delays "Qabl wa Baad"

Actress Mai Ezzidine was set to film "Qabl wa Baad" alongside Emad Ziyada and Hani Adel, with a script by Mohamed Suleiman Abdel-Malek and direction by Marqus Adel. However, she has announced a one-year delay to ensure a high-quality artistic product.

* Ahmed Adam Absent from "Al-Qarmouti Aamil Qalaq"

Actor Ahmed Adam, who has been away from drama for several years, was slated to appear in the 15-episode series "Al-Qarmouti Aamil Qalaq," written by Mohamed Mahrez and directed by Ahmed Abdel-Aal. However, the project has been halted without any explanation provided.

* Khaled El Nabawy and Yasmine Rais Withdraw from Competition

Actor Khaled El Nabawy was preparing for the series "Tahir Al-Masri" alongside Ghada Adel, written by Amin Gamal and directed by Ahmed Khaled. However, the project was halted due to the inability of the team to meet the special requirements for the roles. Similarly, actress Yasmine Rais has also withdrawn from the Ramadan competition with her series "Is'al Rouhak," which has been postponed to 2027 without clear reasons.

* Mohamed Sami Delays Acting Debut

Director Mohamed Sami was set to make his acting debut in the series "8 Talqat," featuring Fathi Abdel Wahab and other stars. However, the project has been completely halted after initial preparations, with no reasons disclosed for the delay.

As the launch date for the Ramadan season approaches, it appears that creators are facing significant challenges in salvaging what they can before the year's biggest competition, amid expectations of further surprises and changes in the coming days.