As a leading production company in Dubai, Countdown Media Production brings the story of two exceptional Egyptian students—Maryam Al-Qadi and Hana Zahri—to life through thoughtful, narrative-driven video production. Their journey through the Arab Reading Challenge 2024 highlights the power of literacy, culture, and youth ambition across the Arab world.

The Arab Reading Challenge, led by Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has become a global movement promoting reading as a foundation for personal growth. In 2024, the initiative welcomed more than 28 million students from 229,000 schools across 50 countries, supported by 154,000 mentors. Amid this remarkable participation, Maryam and Hana stood out as two of Egypt's most dedicated competitors.

Advancing through school, district, and national rounds, both students showcased strong comprehension skills, refined Arabic language mastery, and impressive analytical thinking. The national selection process is known for its intensity, requiring participants to read 25–50 books, present detailed summaries, and excel in advanced oral examinations. Their achievements reflect a high level of discipline and a deep commitment shared by many young Egyptians striving to strengthen their cultural and intellectual identity.

Although the final title went to Omar Abdul Latif—who represented Egypt at the Dubai Opera and earned second place internationally—Maryam and Hana's accomplishments remain an important testament to the challenge's impact. Their journeys demonstrate how reading can inspire confidence, creativity, and academic excellence across communities.

This documentary-style production celebrates not only these students but also the values behind the challenge: curiosity, resilience, cultural pride, and the transformative influence of knowledge. At Countdown Media Production, we specialize in crafting meaningful visual stories for brands, institutions, and educational initiatives across the region. With more than a decade of experience, expert creative direction, and tailored video marketing services, we bring authenticity and cinematic quality to every project.