 Jordanian comedian, actor, writer, and voice over artist Natheer Khawaldeh, who was involved in the Jordanian co-production Hikayat Simsim in 2009, was chosen to perform the Muppet character Gargur, the show's version of the American character Grover. In addition to puppetry, Khawaldeh performed the voice of six other characters and wrote for the show. According to entertainment reporter Arwad Khalifeh, Khalwaldeh's performance as Gargur sounded similar to Frank Oz's Grover, but Khalwaldeh brought his own nuance to the role. Khalwaldeh called the part "the highlight of my career and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity". He also stated, "Iftah Ya Simsim complements every one of my accomplishments in the field of children's work in Jordan, including theatre work, storytelling, dubbing, presenting children's TV programmes and writing. This project incorporates all those genres under its hat and crowns them like the cherry on top". Khalwaldeh said that being cast in the show inspired him to consider his future projects more carefully. Emirati musician Taha Al Ajami, who was a fan of the original show, created music for the new version.
