Basil El Haj is a renowned travel and foodie vlogger with a passion for exploring different cuisines and cultures around the world. He has gained a massive following on his Arab-language YouTube channel, which has more than 3.3 million subscribers.
Basil was born in the United Arab Emirates to Jordanian parents. Growing up, he developed a love for good food and cuisine, which eventually led him to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the American University of Sharjah. After graduating in 2010, he realized that his true passion lay elsewhere and decided to further his education in a field that aligned with his interests.
He then moved to London, where he completed a Master's degree in Media and Communication at Kingston University in 2013. It was during this time that he began to envision a career that combined his love for food, travel, and media.
With a newfound sense of purpose, Basil launched his YouTube channel in 2017 with the goal of showcasing the diverse cuisine of the Middle East and Arabic countries. His videos not only highlight the delicious food of these regions but also explore the unique cultures that produce them.
Through his channel, Basil has produced several successful shows, including 'The Best Food in the World,' 'Eat and Travel,' and 'My Belly is My Guide.' His work has been instrumental in increasing representation in an industry that has often been dominated by white-washed travel and food shows.
During his time in Sharjah, Basil met his wife, Mona Abdullah, who has been a supportive partner in his journey as a vlogger. Together, they have two children, Ryan and Zaid, who often accompany them on their culinary adventures.
After spending nine years in London, Basil and his family decided to return to the UAE in October 2020. Despite the challenges of relocating, they embraced the opportunity to reconnect with their roots and continue their exploration of global cuisine.
Basil El Haj's contributions to the world of food and travel vlogging have been substantial. His dedication to showcasing authentic cuisines and cultures has inspired a new generation of content creators to embrace diversity and inclusivity in their work.
Through his collaboration with his wife in their production studio, Twenty30 Media Company, Basil continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes in the industry. His commitment to excellence and passion for exploration have earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the top vloggers in the Arab world.
As Basil's journey as a vlogger continues to evolve, his fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his culinary adventures. With his unwavering dedication and innovative spirit, he is sure to leave a lasting impact on the world of food and travel entertainment.