ABOUT SIMSEM
Simsem: The World’s First app for Middle Eastern travel
Simsem is the world’s first app connecting travelers with Middle Eastern locals through a range of authentic tours and experiences.
Our platform unlocks the region’s rich history, delectable cuisine, vibrant traditions, and unique local gems, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in genuine interactions and meaningful connections.
We envision a world where cultural understanding and appreciation flourish as these unforgettable adventures create bridges of friendship between diverse communities.
Join us and be part of a global community that celebrates diversity and fosters a more inclusive and compassionate society!
The Simsem Team
Our commitment to cultural understanding is not only reflected in our mission but also within the Simsem team.
The Simsem family is a diverse ensemble, consisting of individuals from various cultures and countries.
This diversity fuels our goal of bringing people together through the vibrant Middle Eastern culture.
True to our Simsem core value of fostering cultural diversity, from various corners of the globe, each team member brings a unique perspective and passion for connecting cultures.
Meet the faces behind Simsem.
OUR JOURNEY
How We Started
Our heartfelt journey began in 2014 with a mission to share the beauty of Middle Eastern culture, starting from a cherished Palestinian cultural center in Belgium, called Maramiya Centre.
Now, as it evolved into an app, and became Simsem, we foster meaningful connections, showcasing the region’s rich history, delectable cuisine, vibrant traditions, and unique local gems, bridging the gap between travelers and locals, one authentic tour at a time.
Maramiya Centre, 2014
Our name, Simsem (سمسم), translates to 'sesame’ in Arabic, a staple ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine and are used to make tahini and other dishes.
Just like sesame brings a distinct flavor and texture to dishes, we aim to add depth and authenticity to your Middle East adventures.
The seeds of our passion for this region are sown in our very name!
SIMSEM EXPERIENCES
What We Do
We promote local experiences and shine a light on interacting with locals, giving travelers the opportunity to understand the daily life of the country, its culture, food, religion, and of course, enjoy outdoor activities.
At Simsem, our vibrant community of locals curates a diverse array of authentic experiences that steer away from the noise of the travel industry.
Each activity and tour is carefully designed to provide travelers with never-before opportunities to immerse themselves in the true essence of the region.
With our close bonds with the locals, we offer unparalleled tours and activities that go beyond typical tourist attractions.
Dining Experiences
Savor authentic flavors as you dine with locals, sharing stories over delectable dishes.
Local Living Experiences
Step into daily life with immersive encounters, from coffee shop hangs to bread baking.
Getaway Experiences
Embark on multi-day local trips, featuring thrilling hikes and scenic explorations.
Spontaneous Hangouts
Embrace the unexpected by connecting with active local hosts for unplanned ventures.
OUR DAILY COMMITMENT
Our Mission
At Simsem, our commitment lies in the relentless pursuit of improvement.
We strive to enhance our platform, offered experiences, and systems to deliver genuine, enriching, and sustainable interactions for everyone involved.
Our dedication to continuous improvement fuels our purpose to create unforgettable journeys that foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation while preserving the unique essence of the Middle East
OUR VISION
What our future looks like
We aspire to become the ambassador of authentic Middle Eastern experiences making a sustainable, positive impact on lives and communities of locals, while fostering a society of empathy, appreciation, and mutual respect for all cultures.
Our Guiding Principles
What we Stand For
Authenticity
Authenticity lies at Simsem’s heart.
For our local hosts, we encourage them to showcase their genuine traditions, flavors, and stories, empowering them to share their unique way of life with travelers.
Our curated experiences for travelers offer an authentic window into the local lifestyle, allowing them to savor the true spirit of the Middle East.
quality
We recognize the richness of Middle Eastern culture, and it is our mission to deliver it to travelers with the utmost quality.
Through meticulous approvals of hosts and tours, a top-notch app, and captivating content, we ensure that every experience surpasses expectations.
We hold ourselves to the highest standard, curating journeys that unveil the true essence of the Middle East, forging lasting connections, and creating cherished memories along the way.
quality
Safety is paramount at Simsem. We prioritize the well-being of our local hosts and travelers at every step of their journey.
Rigorous vetting and certification processes ensure that our hosts are qualified to provide safe and enriching experiences for travelers.
For our local hosts, safety means being part of a supportive community. We equip them with the necessary tools and resources to ensure safety during their interactions with travelers.
Transparency
We place great emphasis on clarity and open communication to ensure that both our esteemed local hosts and adventurous travelers know exactly what to expect from their experiences.
For local hosts, we provide comprehensive guidance and supportto enable them to create truly authentic and immersive journeys.
For travelers, we offer transparent and detailed information about each experience, allowing them to make informed decisions and embark on journeys that align with their interests and expectations.
With clear communication, we strive to create a platform where everyone feels confident, informed, and excited about the enriching experience that awaits them through Simsem.
Creativity
Creativity is at the core of what we do.
We love to embrace the imaginative and artistic spirit of our local hosts, empowering them to present their culture in unique and innovative ways.
By curating creative content and interactions, we cultivate a lively atmosphere of cultural exchange and mutual appreciation, ensuring every experience is truly unforgettable for our travelers.