Eastenders writer is heading to the UAE for the country's first Arab soap opera

Eastenders is probably one of the biggest things to come out of the UK since the scone, so we’re all pretty in-tune with drama. And, with an almost 35-year run, it’s obviously a hit. But now, the UAE is getting its very own answer to life in Albert Square as Tony Jordan, a writer of the popular show, is teaming up with producers in Abu Dhabi.

Alongside twofour54 Abu Dhabi, MBC Studios announced a new partnership to produce Inheritance, “the world’s first Arabic-language soap opera.”

According to Arabian Business, Jordan has had his eye on the project, saying, “One of my long-held ambitions has been to create and help develop major drama projects outside the UK. This project is truly groundbreaking and I think we’ve created something really special.”

Maryam Eid AlMheiri, vice chair of twofour54, said: “Partnering with MBC Studios and Image Nation to produce the world’s first Arab soap opera is truly a landmark moment in Arab entertainment industry and cultural history.

“These soaps are very labour intensive and collectively we view this agreement as a long-term opportunity to rapidly develop aspiring production professional through extensive training of local cast, crew and writers. When it comes to producing key long-running shows in Abu Dhabi, this is only the beginning,” added Peter Smith, managing director of MBC Studios.

The show is set to film within 250 days a year, and the producers have suggested that the first year will open up 200 new jobs, according to the press release.

Although we don’t know very much about the show’s plot, we can safely assume there will be drama, romance, dysfunctional family-ties and an extra serving of drama.