If you have a curious mind and love exploring fascinating, unusual topics, or simply want to expand your knowledge by listening and watching, documentaries in Arabic are an excellent way to immerse yourself in the language. We’ve specifically recommended series instead of standalone documentaries, so you can enjoy continuous learning over time. These are just a few of the many great options available; consider them as starting points to help you discover even more through related videos or curated playlists on the channels.

To fully enjoy these documentaries, it’s best to have reached at least an intermediate level of Arabic. Some of them, especially the dubbed ones, can be quite fast-paced. Don’t hesitate to watch them more than once, as you’ll likely catch new details the second or third time that you may have missed initially. If you’ve already completed your formal Arabic studies, these documentaries are an excellent way to maintain and enhance your language skills.

However, if you’re a complete beginner, do not despair! Some of these have subtitles, so you’ll still be able to follow along and pick up useful bits of the language! Moreover, listening to a language helps you become familiar with its rhythm, sounds, and common words, even if you don’t understand what’s being said. You’ll pick up words passively that might get activated later in your language-learning journey.

“الخواطر” (Reflections)

The “الخواطر” (Reflections) series aired in multiple seasons. In this series, Ahmed Alshugairi tackled various societal issues and addressed them through the lens of youth, offering insights and solutions to improve communities and inspire positive change.

Watch: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLM7DHPAGxHOGkKI9XI_w6a5-pI3DdiR8z&feature=shared

About the presenter: Ahmed Alshugairi

Ahmed Al-Shugairi is a well-known media personality in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world, gaining fame through his successful TV series “الخواطر”, which addressed youth and societal issues with a unique approach. He often started each episode by humbly stating, “I am not a scholar or a mufti, just a student of knowledge.” Born in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on June 6, 1973, of Palestinian descent, Al-Shugairi studied in the U.S., earning a Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of California.

In addition to his media career, he runs a business in home goods and has authored several books, including “رحلتي مع غاندي“ (My Journey with Ghandi), “أربعون” (Forty) , and “الخواطر” series. Al-Shugairi has produced and presented various educational programs, such as “يلا شباب”, “قمرة”, and “لو كان بيننا” (If He Were Among Us).

He has received numerous accolades, including being named the most influential young Arab by Shabab 20 magazine and winning the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award. His program “Khawatir” was also recognized as the best cultural TV show. Known for his inspirational quotes, Al-Shugairi emphasizes self-improvement, kindness, and the importance of purpose and humility in life.

“بالقرآن اِهتديت” (With the Quran, I Was Guided)

Sheikh Fahad Al-Kandari, the host of the programme “بالقرآن اِهتديت” (With the Quran, I Was Guided), narrates the stories of people from the West who embraced Islam. The show highlights how they entered Islam after hearing or reading verses from the Quran, focusing on how specific verses deeply touched their hearts, transformed their lives, and led them to the path of faith. Throughout the episodes during Ramadan, Sheikh Al-Kandari meets with these new converts to showcase how a particular verse had such a profound impact on them, guiding them from darkness to the light of Islam.

The program also emphasizes the moral teachings of the Quran and how these values shape the life of a believer. Through these stories, Al-Kandari illustrates the Quran’s power to inspire change and shows the divine rewards awaiting those who live by its guidance.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwpWNTLjV20_wy9BzIp_pIc3WgEQd4Gah

About the Presenter “Sheikh Fahad Al-Kandari”

Sheikh Fahad Al-Kandari, a renowned Kuwaiti Quran reciter, was born on June 28, 1982, in Kuwait. Raised in a religious environment, he developed a deep love for the Quran from an early age. Al-Kandari began leading prayers at the age of 14 and completed his memorization of the Quran at 15, with guidance from prominent scholars like Sheikh Rashad bin Mohammed.

His dedication to Quranic studies led him to participate and excel in several local and international Quran competitions, winning first prize in Kuwait’s International Quran Recitation Competition. Though he pursued higher education in teaching, he transitioned to a career in religious leadership, serving as an Imam in various mosques in Kuwait and abroad, including Kuwait’s Grand Mosque.

Al-Kandari is also involved in charitable and Islamic outreach activities, and has produced numerous Quran recordings and media programs. His notable works include the TV programs “بالقرآن اهتديت” and “مسافر مع القرآن”, as well as the educational program “لآلئ”. He has also participated in international conferences on family, education, and Islamic preaching in countries like Canada, the U.S., and the UAE.

“أساليب البقاء” (Survival Techniques)

The National Geographic series “أساليب البقاء” (Survival Techniques) showcases extraordinary survival stories and strategies used by people in extreme environments across the world. Each episode explores how individuals or groups overcome harsh conditions, such as freezing cold, scorching heat, or dangerous wildlife, using a combination of traditional knowledge, innovation, and sheer willpower. The series offers an in-depth look at the challenges of surviving in the wild, highlighting human resilience and ingenuity in the face of nature’s toughest tests.

Watch:
Source 1: https://arabsciences.com/category/tv-channels/natgeoad/primal-survivor/#google_vignette
Source 2: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6jwodu

“العلماء المسلمون” (Islamic Scientists)

This Al-Jazeerah series “العلماء المسلمون” (Islamic Scientists) presents examples of some of the most prominent Muslim scholars who left a lasting mark on history, contributing valuable services and unique inventions in various fields for the benefit of humanity.The Islamic civilization, particularly from the 7th to the 14th century, was a beacon of knowledge, literature, and thought, despite the surrounding political circumstances. It drew inspiration from ancient civilizations and, building on that foundation, advanced in both theoretical and applied sciences.

Watch: : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wThroBLO354&list=PLmrET10kAE94VLoOE3p5g1qx3gLKIEhwU

الرحالة “The Travelers”

This Al-Jazeerah series “الرحالة” (The Travelers) is a collection that highlights the stories and experiences of prominent Muslim travelers who explored the world during various periods of Islamic history. These travelers documented their journeys and observations about the people and cultures they encountered. The series aims to showcase their contributions to the fields of knowledge, geography, and culture. Notable figures include travelers like Ibn Battuta and Al-Idrisi, among others. Through this series, viewers gain insight into how these explorers helped bridge different parts of the Islamic world with new knowledge and geographical discoveries, fostering cultural exchange between civilizations.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10Z-OcbcFOk&list=PLmrET10kAE948q3DHnjo3IiVPMbVbej5z

“اكتشاف المجهول” (Discover the Unknown)

The Al-Jazeerah documentary series “اكتشاف المجهول” (Discover the Unknown) is a captivating series that delves into fascinating and mysterious subjects, uncovering remote tribes, hidden natural wonders, ancient civilizations, bizarre rituals, deadly creatures, and extraordinary people. The series takes viewers on an adventurous journey through the depths of the Amazon, the remote regions of Ethiopia, and the islands of Indonesia, offering a closer look at some of the world’s most intriguing and unexplored phenomena.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPxB1sINl2E&list=PLmrET10kAE94wvJV2YraaJnVGDOFKEyKi&index=1

“خطى الرحالة” (Traveller’s Footsteps)

The Al-Jazeerah documentary series “خطى الرحالة” (Traveller’s Footsteps) is hosted by Ali Bin Towar who tours Europe to discover how civilizations mixed to create Europe after the Dark Ages.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCLtqJA3iAY&list=PLmrET10kAE96s1o6dsUCe6bPsjf6Md8cT

“مقاتل الشعراء “ (Warrior Poet)

The Al Jazeera series “مقاتل الشعراء” (Warrior Poets) explores the lives and struggles of Arab poets throughout history who used their poetry as a form of resistance, protest, and expression of dissent. The series sheds light on how these poets, through their powerful words, confronted oppression, injustice, and political challenges in their societies. It blends historical narratives with literary analysis to showcase how poetry has been a weapon for cultural and social change, highlighting the courage and impact of these poets in shaping Arab history and thought.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpNbQ14wh_w&list=PLmrET10kAE96Pxghpqz2m40REDGbPQ2IW

“هذا أنا” (This Is Me)

The Al Jazeera series “هذا أنا” (This Is Me) is an intimate documentary series that features personal stories of influential figures from various fields, including art, politics, sports, and culture. Each episode delves into the life journey of a guest, exploring their experiences, challenges, and achievements that shaped their identity. Through candid interviews and personal reflections, the series offers viewers a deeper understanding of the guests’ motivations, values, and the defining moments that contributed to their success.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-L9ysEm2mwU&list=PLmrET10kAE97cKEe-SPXBWMHB589li1r9

“العيش الحر” (Live Free or Die)

The National Geographic series “العيش الحر” (Live Free or Die) follows individuals and families who have chosen to live off the grid, away from modern conveniences, in remote and wild locations. The series explores their self-sufficient lifestyles, showcasing how they survive by relying on natural resources, traditional skills, and ingenuity. Each episode highlights the challenges they face, from sourcing food and water to building shelter and enduring harsh weather, while reflecting on their reasons for rejecting modern society in favor of a more independent and sustainable way of life.

Watch: https://arabsciences.com/category/tv-channels/natgeoad/العيش-الحر/

Documentaries on Society and Politics

These documentaries examine various societal issues around the world.

A collection by Al Jazeerah
Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10Z-OcbcFOk&list=PLmrET10kAE948q3DHnjo3IiVPMbVbej5z

Documentaries on Palestine

A collection by Al Jazeerah
Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KT9rOnEotB0&list=PLmrET10kAE95G1CqkT7NvBw-OsKNFAeak

History Documentaries

A collection by Al Jazeerah
Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwYsLVHz_uI&list=PLmrET10kAE97njbdonh9G0q1xNTSg1roq

“عمر صانع حضارة” (Omar: Creator of a Civilization)

***Presented in Egyptial dialect (not standard Arabic)

The documentary series “عمر صانع حضارة” (Omar: Creator of a Civilization), presented by Amr Khaled, focuses on the life and contributions of Caliph Omar ibn Al-Khattab (May Allah be pleased with him). The series highlights the pivotal role of Omar (RA) in the early Islamic era, emphasizing his leadership, justice, and vision in shaping a powerful and ethical civilization. It explores key moments from his life, from his conversion to Islam to his tenure as Caliph, showcasing his reforms in governance, societal development, and his deep commitment to equality and fairness. Through historical narration and storytelling, Amr Khaled illustrates Omar’s influence on the Islamic world and his enduring legacy.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFyfGyAw5Gw&list=PLC153501EA0D39FFB