Purpose: We serve as a comprehensive resource for all your artistic needs, including Actors, Cultural Advisors, Directors, Producers, Voice-Over Artists, and Writers. We collaborate closely with Casting professionals and Filmmakers through referrals. Our mission is to provide the film industry with top talent from the Middle Eastern and African (MENA) regions, as well as South Asian (SA) talent, collectively known as MENASA.

The Idea: The inspiration for this initiative emerged on the set of the Oscar-winning film Argo, featuring Ben Affleck, where SAG-AFTRA actor Hamzah Saman connected with a diverse group of Middle Eastern individuals. Saman remarked, “I found my home,” as he formed lasting friendships with many Arabs and Middle Easterners in Los Angeles. After filming, he felt a deep sense of homesickness for the community he had encountered.

Following Argo, Saman landed a role in Kadaffi Goes Hollywood (2011), directed by Oscar-winner Ari Sandel. When asked if he could recommend Arab Actors for certain roles, he seized the opportunity to cast talented individuals for the first time. His passion for Arabic culture and language drove him to establish a Facebook group, Arab American Casting (A.A.C.), which has since flourished.

Putting People to Work: Arab American Casting (A.A.C.) gained significant traction on social media in 2012, garnering support from Arab Americans and many in the film industry. With a follower count reaching 70,000-100,000, A.A.C. frequently receives 5-star reviews on platforms like Yelp and Google, thanks to contributions from supporters like Joey Naber.

Mission Statement: Our goal is to unite Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian Actors on a single platform that ensures equal opportunities and services for Casting Directors and Filmmakers.

Vision Statement: We aim to transform perceptions of Arab/Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian (MENASA) Artists both in the United States and globally.

How it Works: Arab American Casting (A.A.C.) functions as a search engine, providing free profile photos and job opportunities for its members. For inquiries about our talented artists, please reach out to Hamzah Saman.

What’s Next? We are excited to introduce Arab American Content, a production and management company that bridges the Middle East and Hollywood. We represent exceptional Arab and Middle Eastern directors, writers, actors, and comedians, collaborating closely to help them achieve their goals. Together with our distinguished clients and projects—ranging from feature films to commercials—we strive to enhance our reputation in the entertainment industry.