About the Show

Ahlan Simsim follows the adventures of Basma and Jad, two best friends exploring their world. Each episode features familiar Muppet friends, animated characters, and trusted adults who help our characters learn how to identify and manage big feelings—with lots of fun, laughter, and learning along the way!

Meet the Characters

Jad

Jad is a creative almost-6-year-old yellow monster who’s new to the neighborhood. He expresses himself through visual art and has the special skill of painting in mid-air using his grandfather’s paintbrush. Jad is a natural organizer—before he does anything, he likes to think it through and make a plan!

Basma

Basma is a gregarious almost-6-year-old purple monster who loves new experiences. She’s a born performer and has a special ability to create music and sound effects, which comes in handy when she can’t quite find the words to express herself. When Jad arrived to the neighborhood, Basma welcomed him with open arms and they have been best friends ever since!

Ma'zooza

Ma’zooza is a sweet baby goat who loves Basma and Jad very much. She doesn’t speak yet, but “maaas” to express herself. Ma’zooza loves things that are round—when she locks her eyes on something round or circular, her ears perk up… and she’ll try to eat it!

Abu'l Fihem

Abu’l Fihem is the wise father figure of Ahlan Simsim, who observes the neighborhood from the mural wall and gives guidance to Basma and Jad. He has a thick mustache and a belly that inflates and deflates like a balloon—perfect for belly breathing!

Reesheh, Bulbul, Hassoon

Reesheh is a young female bird who cares about others and loves to explore. She’s funny, playful, and sophisticated. Bulbul is the youngest of the birds. He often makes mistakes, but is always persistent and loves learning new things! Hassoon is a young male bird who loves to sing and play with his friends. He is friendly, thoughtful, and smart—and likes to look sharp.

The Dabke Dancers

The Dabke Dancers are a group of three hilarious characters who help Basma and Jad identify big feelings through song and dance.

Teta Noor

Teta Noor is a Syrian woman who lives on Ahlan Simsim with her son, Hadi. She has a passion for gardening and tutors children in academics, arts and crafts, and computers. Basma and Jad can always rely on her to help them find a solution to any problem.

Hadi

Hadi is a sweet, silly, creative young man who lives on Ahlan Simsim with his mom. Hadi loves to cook and aspires to be a chef, but hasn’t quite mastered his recipes…. yet! He is a big brother figure to Basma and Jad and is there to lend a hand when they need help.

Kaki

Kaki is a googly-eyed, furry blue monster on a persistent quest for food… especially cookies! Kaki always shares his snacks with his friends and is there for them when they need him.

Elmo

Elmo is a 3½-year-old furry red monster with a cheerful voice and a contagious giggle. Enthusiastic, friendly, and curious, he loves to explore new things

Gargur

Gargur is a loveable blue monster who does everything with exuberance and determination. He loves to try new things and go on adventures—even when he takes a few wrong turns along the way!

Highlighted Resources

Soap and Water are your friends

Soap and water are your friends! Our friend Gargur from Ahlan Simsim is here with an important lesson on handwashing. #CaringForEachOther

What is COVID-19

Eat fruits and veggies, get lots of rest, wash your hands – Elmo and his mommy are reviewing all the ways we can stay healthy together! #CaringForEachOther

Soap and Water are your friends
What is COVID-19