You've heard of Jewish Matchmaking and have likely binge-watched Indian Matchmaking, but now, there's a new dating series for you to watch non-stop as Muslim Matchmaker has just arrived to Disney+. The show follows two matchmakers, Hoda Abrahim and Yasmin Elhady, who help single Muslims through the world of modern dating, and on the path to finding their life partner.
"For Muslims, marriage is an act of worship," says Yasmin in the series. "Many believe it's actually half your faith because when you're in a union with someone, you have to learn who you really are." In a world of swiping left and situationships, Hoda and Yasmin have a different approach, and encourage their single clients to date intentionally, for the purpose of marriage.
It's not about finding out your date's favourite colour or the name of their pet, only to get ghosted days later. Instead, these two matchmakers follow a special "three rules" framework – go on three dates, court for three months and ask 300 questions. Cosmopolitan chatted with Hoda to delve into the creation of the series, reveal on-set secrets and learn more about her tips for singles, Muslim and non-Muslim, looking for love.
Hey Hoda! What inspired you and Yasmin to start your Muslim matchmaking service?
It's been a part of the way by brain operates for as long as I can remember. When I meet people, I'm always thinking about who I can connect them with to – whether it's for a friendship, someone moving to a new city or looking for new job. Naturally, the romantic part was so exciting and as I'm pretty well connected within the American Muslim community. I was able to help my older brothers get married and it grew from there. What started as a hobby or passion turned into a purpose.
What are some of the challenges that you've seen Muslims experience when dating, that might differ from other cultures or religious groups?
The way dating often works today in the West is a lot more casual than many Muslims are looking for. We don't go on to date for years and live together before getting married. From day one, we have very serious intentions in mind, which shape your interactions and set the tone. But, difficulties can come if people aren't on the same page or looking for the same thing.
What are some misconceptions that people may have about Muslims and dating?
Probably that we all have arranged marriages and have no autonomy or choice in the matter. The process behind it is more serious and intentional, but the decision-making is still there and no one is forced – we're not setting up young women with old men who want four wives. Our ethos is matchmaking driven by values, and it's very much focused on compatibility.
Also, I think people are surprised to see how diverse the Muslim community is. We're the most ethnically diverse religious group and on the show, people vary in how much they practice. We have West Africans, North Africans, South Asians, African Americans, it's a beautiful array of background connected by shared faith.
How did the series, Muslim Matchmaker, come about?
Back in 2020, Indian Matchmaking aired and really shook up the dating show world. Building off of that, the series creator Smriti Mundhra reached out on Instagram about doing this show. It took years to get it off the ground and when we got the green light two years ago, we immediately starting casting and filming. It all came together so quickly and Smriti's vision was the driving force.
What did you enjoy the most about filming your new series?
I really appreciated how much attention, care and sensitivity went into bringing together our cast and crew and making sure everybody's concerns and visions were heard. Going into this, I was afraid, as historically, Muslims are done pretty dirty on screen with stereotypes and false tropes that aren't genuine or authentic.
We had hours of conversations about seemingly insignificant parts of the show, so it was so special to see how much thought came into it. I feel like I can stand behind the work that we did. Also, I was pregnant the entire time during filming so behind the scenes. There was a running joke about me being very hormonal!
How do you respond to any controversy the series has received?
We're really open to feedback and recognise that the show isn't for everybody. Some people don't see the benefit of the show being made or agree with the approach taken. Every piece of criticism that comes is important to sit with so we can see if there's validity, change and and do better. Some of it is crazy, so we take with a grain of salt and move on!
Which singles or couples were you rooting for the most, and what was it like to see their journey?
Every single cast member was so special in their own way. Re-watching it on screen is different because we weren't there for the dates or initiate conversation, Watching Fahim and Noreen, you could see the chemistry and sparks flying – I was grinning from ear to ear! They were so beautiful, open and vulnerable and I really enjoyed seeing their story unfold.
Yasmin B didn't have the best dating experience but I have so much love for her. She's so fun, vibrant and smart and she came from this vulnerable place of ending her first marriage and putting herself back out there. It's so relatable and I'm really happy and proud that we got to showcase her.
What are your hopes for the future of the series?
Whatever happens with the show, I'm so proud of the work we did in bringing these stories to screen. We definitely hope for more seasons, but regardless I'm proud.
What do you hope audiences take away from Muslim Matchmaker?
Everybody can relate to the pursuit of looking for love and that, no matter how the process has looked for you so far, you can also reset and look within. You can begin being intentional to find a serious life partner and take a step back to take 100 steps forward.
Muslim Matchmaker is streaming on Disney+ now.
