Muawiya Series Season 1 explores the life of Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan in a lavish MBC production. Discover where to watch, meet the cast, and dive into the plot of this controversial Ramadan 2025 historical drama.
The highly anticipated historical drama Muawiya has finally premiered, captivating audiences across the Arab world and beyond during Ramadan 2025. Produced by the Saudi-owned MBC Group, this ambitious series delves into the life and legacy of Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan, the founder of the Umayyad Caliphate and a polarizing figure in Islamic history. With a massive budget, a star-studded cast, and a narrative steeped in controversy, Muawiya Season 1 has sparked widespread discussion. Here’s everything you need to know about where to watch it, who’s in the cast, and what the plot entails.
Where to Watch Muawiya
Muawiya Season 1 officially began airing on March 1, 2025, coinciding with the start of Ramadan in most Muslim countries. The series is broadcast on MBC, the Middle East’s largest television network, and is available for streaming on Shahid, MBC’s digital platform. Shahid offers viewers the chance to watch episodes in high definition, with options for subtitles in multiple languages, including Arabic and potentially Persian through channels like MBC Persia, though access may vary by region.
However, the series has faced regional restrictions. In Iraq, the Communications and Media Commission banned its broadcast on MBC Iraq, citing concerns over sectarian tensions, though it remains accessible via satellite channels and Shahid. Similarly, in Iran, the series has been prohibited due to its perceived portrayal of the Umayyad dynasty, with authorities labeling it an attempt to “whitewash” historical figures. For viewers outside restricted zones, Shahid provides a convenient way to follow the 30-episode season, with new episodes released daily during Ramadan.
Cast
The Muawiya series boasts a diverse and talented ensemble of actors from across the Arab world, bringing depth to its historical characters. Leading the cast is Syrian actor Lujain Ismail, who portrays Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan. Ismail stepped into the role after Palestinian actor Ali Suleiman withdrew, a change that added to the production’s challenges. Egyptian actor Eyad Nassar takes on the pivotal role of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, Muawiya’s rival during the First Fitna, delivering a performance anticipated to be both nuanced and powerful.
Other notable cast members include:
- Ayman Zidan (Syrian) as Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second caliph.
- Wael Sharaf (Syrian) as Amr ibn al-As, a key companion and military leader.
- Samer Al-Masri (Syrian) as Uthman ibn Affan, the third caliph.
- Sawsan Badr (Egyptian) in a significant supporting role.
- Suhair Bin Amara (Tunisian) as Hind bint Utbah, Muawiya’s mother.
- Asmaa Galal (Egyptian) as Muawiya’s wife.
The cast also features Jordanian actress Saba Mubarak, Tunisian actors Aisha Bin Ahmed and Jamila Al-Shayhi, and Saudi actor Naif Al-Dhafiri as Al-Hasan ibn Ali. This multinational lineup reflects the series’ ambition to resonate with a broad Arab audience while staying true to its historical roots.
Plot
Muawiya Season 1 traces the life of Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan, beginning with his early years and rise to prominence under Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab. The series explores his governorship of Damascus, his military victories, and his pivotal role in the turbulent period following the assassination of Caliph Uthman ibn Affan in 656 CE. The narrative centers on the First Fitna, the first civil war in Islam, pitting Muawiya against Imam Ali. Key events include the Battle of Siffin in 657 CE, which ended in a stalemate, and Muawiya’s eventual ascension to the caliphate in 661 CE after Ali’s assassination.
The plot extends beyond Muawiya’s political maneuvers, delving into his personal life, ambitions, and the establishment of the Umayyad dynasty. It portrays his governance, military innovations, and the controversial decision to nominate his son Yazid as successor, setting the stage for the events leading to Karbala. The series also touches on the peace agreement with Al-Hasan ibn Ali, who briefly assumed the caliphate before conceding to Muawiya.
Filmed in Tunisia at locations designed to evoke early Islamic settings, Muawiya combines historical drama with cinematic grandeur. With a reported budget of $75–100 million, it’s one of the most expensive Arab productions ever, featuring elaborate sets and detailed costumes. Written by Egyptian journalist Khaled Salah and directed by Palestinian-American filmmaker Tarek Al-Arian (with contributions from Ahmad Medhat after Al-Arian’s partial withdrawal), the series aims to present a dramatic interpretation of a complex era rather than a definitive historical account.
Controversy and Reception
The release of Muawiya has not been without controversy. Its focus on a figure revered by some and reviled by others has ignited debates across religious and political lines. Egypt’s Al-Azhar University issued a fatwa against watching the series, objecting to the depiction of the Prophet Muhammad’s companions. In Iraq, fears of sectarian discord led to its ban, while Iran’s authorities condemned it as revisionist propaganda. Despite—or perhaps because of—these controversies, the series has garnered significant attention, with some predicting that the backlash will only boost its viewership, as seen with past MBC productions like *Omar*.
As of March 6, 2025, Muawiya Season 1 is still unfolding, with early episodes setting the stage for a dramatic exploration of power, faith, and legacy. Whether it succeeds in offering a balanced portrayal of this divisive historical figure remains a topic of heated discussion.
Conclusion
Muawiya Season 1 is a bold addition to the Ramadan 2025 lineup, blending historical storytelling with modern production values. Available on MBC and Shahid (where permitted), it features a stellar cast and a plot that navigates one of Islam’s most transformative periods. For those intrigued by history, drama, or the intersection of both, this series promises a compelling—if contentious—journey through the life of Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan.
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