The Journey of Filming 30 Episodes of “Beautiful Mosques Around the World”

In 2013, we faced one of the most ambitious and rewarding challenges in our history at ICON Studio. Mr. Nasser Kabour, the esteemed producer from Jeem TV, approached us with an incredible vision: to capture the beauty, history, and architectural splendor of mosques from around the world. His goal was to air 30 episodes during Ramadan, each dedicated to a different mosque, showcasing the diversity and cultural richness of Islamic heritage.

The Challenge

With just months to prepare, the task was monumental. We needed to identify, research, and secure filming permissions for mosques across multiple continents. The production had to be completed in a tight timeframe to meet the Ramadan broadcast deadline.

The Journey

Our journey took us to 17 countries, spanning from the historical landmarks of the Middle East to the serene, lesser-known gems in Southeast Asia, and the iconic mosques of Europe and Africa. Each location presented its own set of challenges:

Logistics and Permits: Navigating complex bureaucratic systems to secure filming permits in multiple countries.
Cultural Sensitivity: Ensuring we respected local customs and traditions while filming sacred spaces.
Weather Conditions: Adapting to extreme weather—from the scorching deserts of Arabia to the cold winters of Central Asia.
Time Constraints: With only a few days allocated per location, efficiency was key.

Highlights

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (UAE): One of the largest mosques in the world, its grandeur and intricate design left us in awe.
Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Turkey): Filming under the mesmerizing blue domes of this Ottoman-era masterpiece was unforgettable.
Faisal Mosque (Pakistan): Nestled against the Margalla Hills, this modern architectural marvel stood as a beacon of faith.
Lalla Sokaina Mosque (Morocco): A hidden gem blending traditional Moroccan craftsmanship with modern elegance.
Kul Sharif Mosque (Kazan, Russia): A stunning fusion of Tatar and Islamic architecture, reflecting the cultural harmony of Kazan.

The Result

After months of intensive work, we successfully delivered 30 captivating episodes, each a visual tribute to the spirit of Ramadan and the architectural ingenuity of Islamic civilization. The series was well-received, drawing audiences into the beauty and serenity of these sacred spaces during the holy month.

A Testament to Collaboration and Dedication

This project exemplified our team’s dedication, adaptability, and passion for storytelling. It also reinforced the importance of collaboration with local communities, officials, and our client, Jeem TV, to bring this ambitious vision to life.

We are proud to have been part of this journey, and we hope that our work continues to inspire and educate audiences worldwide.

Watch the film:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/l0zndct9rqvscrukhsmg9/Giralda-Spain.mov?rlkey=nyr4lsqyf7a9z8vmwfu7abi9z&e=1&st=cdifwz9e&dl=0