Yara Mustafa is a Jordanian actress, singer, and writer with Palestinian roots, constantly on the move between Amman, Dubai, and the wider GCC. Many know her as Dina from Netflix’s hit miniseries AlRawabi School for Girls, but her talents extend far beyond the screen. For Yara, acting and music are two sides of the same coin: acting taught her empathy and how to step into someone else’s shoes and bring their story to life, while music gave her the freedom to step into her own and make her voice heard.
With the spotlight has come growth like learning to set boundaries, protect her peace, and still show up authentically no matter how many eyes are watching. The journey has also given her confidence and a sense of responsibility: a determination to make every moment count.
Cosmopolitan Middle East caught up with our cover star Yara to talk about her artistic journey, her heritage, and what’s next for the rising star.
T-shirt, Alexander Wang via Bloomingdale’s UAE
Sunglasses, Gentle Monster
Cosmo ME: You’ve accomplished a lot at a young age. What are you most proud of today?
Yara: I’m proud that I turned my passion into a career at such a young age. What started as a dream in my bedroom is now my reality as I am acting, making music, and connecting with audiences. It took courage to take that leap, and I’m proud I did it despite the doubts and opinions around me.
Cosmo ME: How did you get cast in Al Rawabi School for Girls? Walk us through the moment you found out you were selected.
Yara: I was in my AP European History class when I got pulled out for an audition. At the time, I had no idea what a big deal this project would be. A few weeks later, I was home when I got the call informing me that I got the role. I just stared at my phone in disbelief. That was the moment my life completely shifted.
Cosmo ME: Did you have an ‘aha’ moment after reaching stardom? Share some tea.
Yara: The real ‘aha’ moment came when people started reaching out to say my work, whether acting or music, made them feel seen. That’s when I realised it’s more than just entertainment; it can actually touch people in a meaningful way.
Cosmo ME: How has your Jordanian heritage influenced your art & storytelling?
Yara: My Jordanian heritage grounds me. Growing up across the region shaped how I see the world, the stories I want to tell, and even the sounds that resonate in my music. There’s a richness in our language and traditions that I carry with me. I want my work to feel authentic to where I come from while connecting with people everywhere.
Top, Pinko
Trousers, Alexander Wang via Bloomingdales
Shoes, Skechers Hotshot
Cosmo ME: Does your family support your art?
Yara: I was the kid putting on living room concerts with a hairbrush mic. My parents always saw how much I loved performing. Even though they had concerns about how tough this industry can be, they never stopped me from pursuing it. My little sister is my number-one fan. She is my daily reminder on why I love doing what I do.
Cosmo ME: Al Rawabi School for Girls takes on the subject of bullying with honesty and heart. What personal experiences or observations pushed you to join a series that shows the impact of bullying?
Yara: Bullying is something almost everyone experiences, but in our region it’s often brushed off as something you just “get over.” What drew me to Rawabi was the chance to show the complexity behind it—that every bully and every victim has their own story shaped by family, society, and pressure. The series gave us a chance to hold up a mirror to our culture and start a conversation we don’t usually have.
Cosmo ME: Your work bridges entertainment with social commentary. Do you see storytelling/art as a form of activism in Middle Eastern culture?
Yara: I see art as one of the strongest tools for change, especially here in the Middle East where stories carry so much weight. For me, it’s less about politics and more about honesty. When you tell a story truthfully, it can challenge perspectives, shift norms, and spark conversations that matter.
Cosmo ME: If you could go back and speak to your teenage self, what would you tell her?
Yara: I’d tell her she doesn’t need to be perfect to be worthy. Every mistake and heartbreak is part of the journey and they’ll shape her into someone stronger than she can even imagine.
Jacket, Magda Butrym
Tights, Stylist’s own
Shoes, Skechers Hotshot
Cosmo ME: Many young women across the region look up to you. What advice would you give them and to our readers?
Yara: Don’t compare your path to anyone else’s. Social media makes it look like everyone has it figured out, but nobody really does. Focus on yourself, nurture your passions, and take it step by step. Your journey is yours alone and that’s what makes it powerful.
Cosmo ME: Time to get a bit vulnerable! What are your fears and dreams?
Yara: My fears aren’t about failing or succeeding, it’s about time. Not having enough of it to do everything I dream of or to give enough to the people I love. It motivates me, but it also scares me. I dream of leaving a resonance that feels timeless with stories and music that capture our generation but still resonate decades from now. I want to contribute to the cultural archive of the Middle East in a way that expands how people see us, here and globally.
Jacket, Mrs. Keepa
Sunglasses, Gentle Monster
Cosmo ME: Could you tell us about any upcoming projects you are working on?
Yara: I’m working on new music that feels like my most authentic sound yet, and I’m so excited to share it soon. There are also collaborations in the works, and of course, I’m continuing to grow as both an actress and musician. This year is about creating without limits and surprising people with what’s next.