Maydan is the first Italian journal of Arab, Semitic, and Islamic studies directed by PhD candidates, graduates, and undergraduates. It was founded in Autumn 2020 by Alessia D’Accardio Berlinguer, Antonio Pacifico, Luigi Sausa, and Pietro Menghini. Its main purpose is to encourage the production of first research articles by young scholars.

This platform serves as a continuous training path involving both authors and editors, encouraging critical reflection on research and the development of skills necessary for the production, editing, and dissemination of scientific articles. In this way, Maydan aims to support the entry of young scholars into the world of research while promoting dialogue and the creation of networks of contacts.

Maydan revolves around a broad vision of Arab, Semitic, and Islamic worlds that includes the SWANA region (Southwest Asia and North Africa), the Sahel, the Caucasus as well as Central and Southeast Asia. Maydan also welcomes contributions regarding the connections between these geographical areas and Europe, North America, and the rest of the world. In this regard, the journal proposes to explore the presence and experiences of Arab, Semitic, and Islamic worlds beyond regions traditionally characterized as "Arab" or "Muslim", while highlightig the internal differences within these contexts. In accordance with this critical perspective, Maydan also encourages analyses that investigate the links and relationships between these areas and other communities as well as the political, economic, social, and cultural dynamics that traverse the globalized world.

Furthermore, the journal invites critical reflection on the concept of Area Studies and the problematization of notions and culturalist approaches that reiterate an essentialist and fundamentally colonial view of Arab, Semitic, and Islamic worlds. Maydan therefore values contributions capable of deconstructing the gaze and methodologies of research and elaborating innovative methods and questions. Alongside the problematization of restricted and culturalist notions often widespread in Area Studies, the journal shows particular interest in research approaches that look at the dynamics of interconnection and interdependence between different contexts. All this is central to Maydan's vision, both to grasp the specificities of the worlds, dynamics, and historical moments under scrutiny, and to move beyond "exceptionalist" intepretations.Maydan is an annual publication. Submitted articles undergo a double-blind peer review process and may also involve, when necessary, the assistance of an international scientific committee, consisting of professors from various disciplines. Accepted languages are Italian, English, and French, to favor the journal’s international profile and dissemination.

Maydan is an annual publication. Submitted articles undergo a double-blind peer review process which also involves, when necessary, the assistance of an international scientific committee, consisting of professors from various disciplines. Accepted languages are Italian, English, and French, to favor the international profile and dissemination of the journal.

The journal accepts contributions from PhD candidates, graduates, and undergraduates from foreign and Italian universities.