Ramadan 2026 is shaping up to be a major entertainment event in the Arab world, and Egyptian actor Ramez Galal is once again at the center of the action with his latest prank show, “Ramez Level El Wahsh” (Ramez Level the Monster). The program, slated to premiere on , on MBC Egypt, promises a new level of suspense and psychological thrills, drawing inspiration from the globally popular Korean drama “Squid Game.”
The official trailer, released by Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia, has already generated significant buzz. The promo depicts a setting reminiscent of “Squid Game,” with Ramez Galal disguised in attire similar to the show’s players or guards. The use of frightening sound and visual effects is intended to amplify the tension for unsuspecting guests, who are subjected to a series of challenges and surprises before Galal reveals himself, eliciting reactions described as a mix of shock, and terror.
This isn’t Galal’s first foray into the world of prank shows. For over a decade, these programs have become an annual Ramadan tradition, consistently achieving record viewership and dominating social media conversations. “Ramez Level El Wahsh” continues this established pattern, building on a long career of similar programs that have become integral to Ramadan television in the Arab world.
While the show’s concept leans into the psychological thriller genre, details about the specific challenges and the identities of the “victims” are beginning to emerge. Reports indicate that several prominent football stars are among those who have been pranked. Kooora.com specifically names Zizo and Abu Al-Shamat as having been featured in the show, though the nature of their experiences remains undisclosed.
The program’s arrival is a testament to the ongoing collaboration between the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia and entertainment industry professionals, aiming to deliver “world-class content” to Arab audiences. Al-Sheikh’s involvement underscores the strategic importance placed on entertainment as a cultural force in the region.
However, Ramez Galal’s prank shows haven’t been without controversy. While immensely popular, the programs often spark debate about the ethics of deceiving individuals for entertainment purposes. Despite this, the shows continue to draw large audiences, suggesting a strong appetite for this type of content.
The anticipation surrounding “Ramez Level El Wahsh” is also evident in the reactions from celebrities and their families. Laha Magazine reports that the wife of singer Diab expressed a message of reproach to her husband after his appearance on the show, hinting at a particularly memorable prank. This incident highlights the show’s ability to generate conversation and engagement beyond the initial broadcast.
CNN Arabic’s coverage of the official promo further emphasizes the show’s cultural significance, with the tagline “اللي جاي ما لوش زي” (roughly translated as “what’s coming has no equal”) suggesting a heightened level of spectacle and surprise. The marketing campaign appears to be leaning heavily into the “Squid Game” aesthetic, capitalizing on the widespread recognition and intrigue surrounding the Korean drama.
The success of Galal’s prank shows hinges on the element of surprise and the reactions of the participants. The show’s producers clearly understand the appeal of watching public figures placed in vulnerable and unexpected situations. The “Squid Game” inspiration adds a layer of psychological tension, promising a more complex and unsettling experience than previous iterations.
As Ramadan approaches, “Ramez Level El Wahsh” is poised to become a major talking point across the Arab world. The combination of a popular host, a compelling concept, and a roster of high-profile guests suggests that the show will likely maintain Galal’s streak of record-breaking viewership and social media dominance. The program’s success will undoubtedly be closely watched by entertainment industry professionals, offering insights into the evolving tastes and preferences of Arab audiences.
The show’s reliance on a popular Korean drama for inspiration also speaks to the increasing globalization of entertainment trends. “Squid Game’s” international success has demonstrated the power of culturally specific narratives to resonate with audiences worldwide, and “Ramez Level El Wahsh” appears to be capitalizing on this phenomenon.
“Ramez Level El Wahsh” represents a significant moment in Arab entertainment, blending local traditions with global influences to create a uniquely engaging and controversial viewing experience. The show’s premiere on will be a key indicator of its potential to capture the attention of audiences across the region and beyond.
