afikra is a pioneering global media and educational platform that evolved from a grassroots movement into a leading engine that fuels intellect and cultural understanding of the Arab world.
Reframe the Arab World
Reframe the Arab World
Latest in Podcasts
The afikra podcast network
Nov 10, 2025
Nurturing Authentic Voices in Arab Filmmaking
The afikra Podcast
Award-winning filmmaker Rana Kazkaz on the evolving landscape of Arab cinema, authentic local narratives, and the role of the Doha Film Institute in fostering emerging talent.
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Aug 13, 2025
An Impossible Friendship | Sonja Mejcher-Atassi
This Is Not a Watermelon
Prof. Sonja Mejcher-Atassi on her book detailing the bonds of a circle of friends in Jerusalem before and after 1948, and the deep fractures the Nakba left behind.
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Dec 17, 2025
Huda Asfour & Mohamed Abozekry | Habibi Festival
Quartertones
Palestinian oud player Huda Asfour performs tracks written during the Gaza campaign at Habibi Festival 2025, including "From the River to the Sea," with the Mohamed Abozekry Sextet.
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May 23, 2025
Ahmed Shawky | Arab Film Criticism & FIPRESCI
Kawalis
FIPRESCI president Ahmed Shawky on his journey into Arab film criticism, the evolution of Arab cinema, and experiences at international festivals from Cairo to Cannes.
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May 2, 2025
Susan Darraj | Writing Arab-American Life
Ehkili
Author Susan Darraj on her acclaimed novel longlisted for the 2025 PEN/Faulkner Award, the experience of writing Arab-American identity, and Palestinian heritage in fiction.
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Apr 25, 2025
Palestinian Ingredients Through Time & Space
Matbakh
Chef Fadi Kattan and food historian Salma Serry explore Palestinian culinary heritage, the politics of food under occupation, and how these traditions survive in diaspora communities.
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Latest Episode
Discovering Arab Artists
The Art Library Podcast
Deep dives into the lives and practices of Arab visual artists — their inspirations, their craft, and the work that defines a generation of contemporary Arab art.
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Latest Episode
NYUAD Arts Center Podcast Series
NYU Abu Dhabi Arts Center
afikra and The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi in conversation with visionary creators — showcasing the rich tapestry of music, theater, drama and poetry from the region.
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The afikra podcast network
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Daftar: Beginnings
Afikra’s First Book
Celebrating 11 years of fostering global curiosity and understanding about the Arab world, afikra has published its first book “Daftar: Beginnings“ with Kaph Books. It is the inaugural print edition of daftar, which began as a journal and developed into a quarterly online platform featuring essays and interviews on the region's histories and cultures.
Meet Our Community
Each monthly newsletter features a Q&A with someone from our local diaspora. It’s a small way to get to know our community and discover the interesting things they’re reading, watching or listening to.
Check out our community events and stay in the loop: @afikra_community