Zainab Mehdi

London

News and Features Associate Editor at The New Arab

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Articles

New door opens for Palestinian art at Palestine Museum Scotland

1 week ago | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

On 17 May 2025, over 400 visitors entered a bright Georgian townhouse on Edinburgh’s Dundas Street to celebrate the grand opening of Palestine Museum Scotland. What they discovered wasn’t just a museum — it was a space where Palestinian artists could share their stories and challenge dehumanising narratives about Palestine and its people through art. Behind the museum's opening is Faisal Saleh, a Palestinian entrepreneur turned museum founder.
Lina Makoul on her music being her voice against occupation

2 weeks ago | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

"At 19, everyone thought I'd become a doctor, but I decided, 'No, I’m going to make music.' And here I am, 12 years later, just making music... living and breathing it," begins Palestinian singer-songwriter Lina Makoul. With tracks like Fish Masari, On Mute, and Shway Shway, Lina’s powerful voice and melodies address social and political issues close to her heart.
How two lands shape one woman's identity in Babylon, Albion

1 month ago | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

In Babylon, Albion, British-born Iraqi writer, editor, and producer Dalia Al-Dujaili reflects on her personal and political connection to the landscapes of both Iraq — her ancestral homeland — and Britain, the country where she was born and raised.
The Little Sauce: Suzie Bakos’ creative take on Iraqi gastronomy

1 month ago | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

“I’ve always been into food, as you probably know, as a fellow Arab,” laughs British-Iraqi creative force Suzie Bakos. “Our world is centred around food. You know how it is,” Suzie adds, referring to growing up in a Middle Eastern household where meals were never just about sustenance. “We never really eat just for fuel. We eat every meal like it's a moment,” Suzie explains. “A lot of the time, your mum will spend days preparing for a gathering.
A woman’s survival amid Israel’s Gaza genocide

2 months ago | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

Disclaimer: This article highlights a few topics discussed in Episode 1 of Sanaa’s Odyssey, a five-part podcast series produced by The New Arab that chronicles one woman’s survival amid Israel’s recent war on Gaza. To listen to the full episode, visit the podcast section on The New Arab’s website. The remaining four episodes will be released weekly over the next four weeks. “At 6:25 am, I was carrying my cup and standing on my balcony.
The ultimate 2025 Eid al-Fitr gift guide for your loved ones

2 months ago | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

In less than two weeks, Muslims around the world will celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan and a time to exchange gifts with loved ones to show appreciation and gratitude. Like Christmas gifts, finding the right Eid present can be tricky and time-consuming, especially when you're not sure what will make your loved ones smile. To help with the search, The New Arab has put together a list of thoughtful gift ideas to make this 2025 Eid celebration special.
The Cairo-born multi-instrumental artist you need to know

2 months ago | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

At just 28 years old, Ashraf Moawad – better known as Ash – has become a global music force, with a string of chart-topping singles, a worldwide fanbase, and a sold-out world tour. With both French and Egyptian roots, Ash is renowned for his genre-defying style, fusing the rich musical traditions of his heritage with electronic sounds that push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a global artist.
The fashion brand uniting Bekaa's women through crochet

Feb 21, 2025 | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

"Lamsa means 'touch' in Arabic, and its heart is in the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon," founder and creative director Natalie Garland told me when I asked where her community-based fashion brand, LAMSA, got its name from. "But why LAMSA as the name, and why the Bekaa Valley as the focus?" I responded. With smiles on both our faces, Natalie, during an hour-long conversation, explained the full story.
Meet Bea Dero, the British-Iranian Photographer Giving SWANA Communities the Representation They Needed Growing Up

Feb 13, 2025 | milleworld.com | Zainab Mehdi

When looking back at our lives, there are figures we wish we had growing up but never did — mentors, role models, or those who truly reflected our stories. Bea Dero, a second-generation British-Iranian photographer, is one of these rare individuals, offering the authentic representation we’ve longed for but never had.
The top Middle Eastern restaurants in London for Valentine's Day

Feb 7, 2025 | newarab.com | Zainab Mehdi

As Valentine's Day approaches, The New Arab reviews some of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in London, highlighting what makes each one not only unique but also a memorable experience on this day of love. Whether you're celebrating with a partner, family, or friends, or simply just enjoying some well-deserved self-care, this guide has you covered:Located in Notting Hill, Akub is housed in a beautifully restored townhouse.