ABOUT SIMSEM
Simsem: The Worldās First app for Middle Eastern travel
For over a three years, we've been connecting travelers with local hosts who open their homes, share their stories, and welcome you into their traditions. We believe the best journeys are built around genuine human connectionsāthe kind that happen over shared meals, heartfelt conversations, and local secrets passed between friends.
Whether you're looking for a carefully crafted authentic package, a personalized private tour built around your curiosity, or a transformative group retreat, we've got you covered. Our local hosts design every experience to be deeply authentic, surprisingly fun, and truly local. This isn't just tourism; it's an invitation to experience the Middle East through the eyes of people who call it home.
We started Simsem because we saw how travel could build bridges of understanding between cultures. Every cup of tea shared, every story exchanged, and every hidden gem discovered together creates a ripple effect of empathy and connection. Our hosts are your doorway to experiences that go beyond the guidebook, from cooking family recipes passed down through generations to finding their favorite sunset spots away from the crowds. This is travel that feels personal, meaningful, and truly human.
Simsem Founder
From a Brussels Dream to a MENA Journey
In 2014, I opened Maramiya Centre in Brussels, dreaming of sharing the true heart of the Middle East. I watched strangers become friends over shared meals and musicāand saw how genuine connection could transform perspectives.
hat small centerās magic inspired something bigger: Simsem. We took its spirit across the MENA region, starting in Jordan, connecting travelers directly with locals who open their homes and lives.
Our name, Simsem (Ų³Ł Ų³Ł ), means āsesameāāa small but essential ingredient that adds depth and flavor to our cuisine. Like those seeds, we add authenticity and richness to your journey, turning trips into meaningful encounters.
Iāve spent years replacing stereotypes with understandingāone conversation, one cup of tea, one sunset at a time. When you travel with Simsem, you donāt just see places. You join a family building bridges across cultures.
To be the ambassador of authentic MENA experiencesāmaking a sustainable impact on local communities while fostering a world of empathy, appreciation, and mutual respect.
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 regionās 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 (Ų³Ł Ų³Ł ), translates to 'sesameā 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
Our Experiences
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.
Local Living
Experiencing Middle East local living tours is an immersive adventure that unveils...
SIMSEM EXPERIENCES
What We Offer
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.
Getaway Experiences
Experience the allure of the Middle East with expert Middle East local...
Spontaneous Hangouts
Embrace the unexpected by connecting with active local hosts for unplanned ventures.
Discover the Authentic Middle East with Simsem!
WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO
We exist to share the richness of the Middle Eastern culture and create a bridge of understanding and appreciation among travelers and locals, one authentic experience at a time
Our Purpose
Simsemās purpose is driven by the passionate desire to share the richness and beauty of Middle Eastern culture with the world.
We believe there's no better way to truly experience and understand this region's culture, traditions, and stories than by connecting travelers with passionate local hosts.
Through responsible travel, we want to make a positive impact on both travelers and locals. We're dedicated to offering exceptional and authentic experiences that break stereotypes and build connections between cultures..
Our dedication to this purpose fuels our commitment to providing exceptional and genuine experiences through our platform.
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
At Simsem, authenticity is at the heart of everything we do. We empower local hosts to share their true traditions, flavors, and stories with pride.
For travelers, our curated experiences offer a genuine glimpse into the local lifestyle, capturing the real spirit of the Middle East.
quality
We celebrate the richness of Middle Eastern culture and strive to share it with travelers at the highest quality. With trusted hosts, curated tours, and a seamless app, every experience is designed to exceed expectations.
Our journeys reveal the true essence of the Middle East, building connections and creating lasting memories.
Safety
At Simsem, safety is our top priority. We safeguard the well-being of both travelers and local hosts through every step of the journey. Rigorous vetting and certification ensure only qualified hosts provide enriching experiences.
For hosts, safety also means being part of a supportive community. We provide the tools and resources they need to ensure secure and meaningful interactions with travelers.
Transparency
At Simsem, we value clarity and open communication so that both local hosts and travelers know exactly what to expect. We guide and support hosts to create authentic, immersive journeys.
For travelers, we provide transparent details about every experience, helping them make confident choices and embark on enriching adventures with peace of mind.
Creativity
Creativity is at the heart of Simsem. We embrace the artistic spirit of our local hosts, empowering them to showcase their culture in unique and innovative ways.
Through creative content and interactions, we foster cultural exchange and mutual appreciation, making every experience unforgettable for travelers.
