The new channel will provide 24/7, free-to-access entertainment with a curated lineup of timeless and contemporary animated favorites from the Warner Bros. Discovery vault. The channel will debut with the legendary Tom & Jerry, Gumball, Ben 10, Teen Titans Go, Scooby Doo  and will refresh its programming lineup quarterly to ensure a constantly engaging and dynamic viewing experience.

Viewers can look forward to a rotating slate of iconic, family-friendly titles, including:

• Tom & Jerry 
• Gumball
• Ben 10
• Teen Titans Go
• Scooby-Doo

Sean Gorman, VP of pay TV networks, Kids, EMEA commented: “This launch marks a major milestone in how we connect with our youngest fans in the MENA region. We’re incredibly proud to work with Etisalat on a pioneering FAST channel that not only brings some of our most iconic characters into homes but does so in a format that suits the modern viewing habits of kids and families alike. It’s an exciting step in ensuring that our content remains accessible, engaging, and inclusive for audiences of all ages.”

The partnership between Warner Bros. Discovery and Etisalat signals a new era of regional content delivery, leveraging the reach and innovation of the StarzOn platform to bring kids’ entertainment to millions of households. This aligns with Warner Bros. Discovery’s global mission to make world-class storytelling available to wider audiences and Etisalat’s commitment to innovation in digital media and customer experience.

You’re absolutely right—there’s a clear and growing recognition across the industry that MENA audiences are distinct and incredibly dynamic. For Warner Bros. Discovery, this region is no longer viewed through a one-size-fits-all lens. The appetite here spans everything from high-end drama and comedy to documentaries and regional reality formats—and what stands out is how deeply rooted that appetite is in cultural nuance, language, and storytelling authenticity.

We’ve seen that viewers in the region respond strongly to content that reflects their lives, values, and identities, but they’re also increasingly discerning—expecting world-class production quality and storytelling that can sit comfortably alongside global titles. That’s why we’re not just looking to localize content; we’re investing in original productions that are made for the region, in the region, and by regional talent. This is a long-term commitment for us, not a trend.

The region is of course united by colloquial Arabic, even if has an uncalculated number of dialects. Is there any intention of producing Arab-language films or television?

Absolutely. As Warner Bros. Discovery, we recognize the richness and diversity of the Arabic language and its many regional dialects. We are firmly committed to producing more Arabic-language content—both films and television—that reflects this part of the world’s stories, cultures, and voices. Our recent partnerships and investments, such as Asharq Discovery and our strategic stake in OSN Streaming, are a testament to that commitment. We see tremendous potential in original Arabic-language programming and are excited to continue working with regional talent to create content that truly resonates with local audiences.

Truth be told, telling stories to the MENA region audiences all while not being from the region might be very complicated. Is there any way Warner is circumventing this?

That’s a very fair point—and one we take seriously. At Warner Bros. Discovery, we understand that authentically connecting with MENA audiences requires more than just translating content. It demands local insight, cultural nuance, and collaboration with storytellers who live and breathe the region’s realities.

That’s why our approach is rooted in partnership. We work directly with local creators, producers, and talent to ensure the stories we tell are grounded in authenticity. Whether through co-productions, talent development initiatives, or commissioning original Arabic content, our aim is not to speak to the region but with it. We see immense value in empowering local voices to shape narratives that are true to the communities they reflect.

On a more personal note, do you speak any language from the region. Is so which? If not, how do you relate to content aimed at the MENA region without speaking the language?

I don’t speak any languages from the MENA region. My remit extends across Turkey and Central Eastern Europe, so it is hard to master one single language for all the places I need to work and travel to. It makes my job harder. You miss nuance, you miss things that are obvious to people’s shared cultural and linguistic experience. It’s why I am very careful when I use English to not bring in words or phrases that people, I work with won’t understand or ‘get’, it can be alienating to do so. My trick is to surround myself with people who are from the country – it’s why I have built teams in countries in all the major places I work, be that in UAE, Turkey, Romania or Hungary for example. Secondly, it’s all about being curious and asking questions – in my experience while there are of course very specific cultural elements to every place in the world, there are also more things that unite and are familiar, especially when it comes to storytelling – the human condition is the human condition!

When it comes to adapting storytelling for audiences with diverse mental, social, and behavioral contexts, it's less about restrictions and more about opportunities to connect deeply, respectfully, and authentically.

First and foremost, it’s about listening. Understanding the unique challenges, values, and aspirations of your audience is key. In the Arab region, for example, cultural nuances and shared histories play a significant role in shaping narratives that resonate. At the same time, there is a growing appetite for contemporary, global themes that are relatable while remaining grounded in local traditions. Striking the right balance between these elements is crucial.

We also prioritize inclusivity. Stories must reflect the diverse realities of the audience, whether through characters who mirror their lives or themes that speak to their struggles and dreams. When addressing senior citizens, people of determination, or other groups, this approach isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about creating narratives that feel authentic and meaningful. For example, in the campaign with the Community Development Authority (CDA) and Fatafeat, inclusivity extended beyond representation; it was about fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring every voice was heard and valued.

Sensitivity is another critical aspect. We strive to empower, not alienate, by thoughtfully exploring topics and steering clear of stereotypes or oversimplifications. By creating stories that empower individuals and communities, we foster pride and connection, ensuring audiences feel seen, understood, and valued.

Creativity can thrive within boundaries. When faced with societal constraints, we see it as a chance to innovate rather than compromise. This approach often leads to richer, more meaningful content.

Arabs have always been treated stereotypically in major productions, how is this narrative shifting and what steps are done to create new stories with nuance and more real and relatable characters?

I’m optimistic about this topic, as we indeed see that the narrative is shifting, and we’re committed

to being at the forefront of this change.

Understanding Audience Preferences

For us, understanding our audience is the foundation of meaningful content. Arab region is one of the most diverse regions in the world, with layers of cultural, social, and generational nuance. We invest in research and data insights, but we also actively engage with our viewers. Listening to their voices helps us create stories that feel authentic, addressing the evolving tastes and expectations of audiences who are eager to see themselves represented in a way that feels real, not reductive.

Creating Compelling Storylines

Storytelling is at the heart of everything we do. At its core, a compelling story bridges universality and cultural specificity. Our goal is to portray characters that feel like they could be your neighbor, your friend, or even yourself—authentic, multifaceted, and relatable. These are stories that don’t just entertain but also reflect the aspirations and challenges of people across the region.

Localizing Content

Localization is another important factor of our approach. In a region as diverse, adapting global formats to reflect local languages, traditions, and values isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. Take our Fatafeat channel as an example. It’s not just about food; it’s about showcasing the essence of Arabic culture through cuisine, stories, and lifestyle. By tailoring content that aligns with local tastes and traditions, we create a sense of belonging and trust with our audiences.

Interactive and innovative experiences are now leading the way, how can one translate this into an Arabic format which would still interest and draw audiences in the region or in Arabophone territories elsewhere?

Interactive and innovative experiences are really changing the game, and for the Arab world, it’s about making sure these new formats feel culturally relevant while still having that global appeal. What we’ve seen is that when you ground content in local stories and traditions, you create something that resonates deeply here and has the potential to travel far.

Take Nana Zanana, for example. We worked with the Egyptian animation studio Folk to create this short series, which started as 13 one-minute episodes on Cartoon Network MENA’s YouTube channel. It took off, with over 10.6 million views, and because it’s language-agnostic, we were able to easily share it across EMEA markets. Some regions aired it on their Cartoon Network channels, some on their digital platforms—it fit seamlessly everywhere.

Another great example is Beneath the Surface: The Fight for Corals and Wild Dubai. These are locally inspired stories that showcase the beauty and urgency of our region’s natural world, and they’ve connected with audiences globally. It just shows that when you mix innovation with authenticity, you can create content that feels fresh, exciting, and meaningful—both here and internationally. That’s the sweet spot we’re always aiming for.

That the region is going through a major creative shift is a given, considering the major awards that are being sweeped, how is Warner Bros. Discovery contributing to this change and positioning?

The creative shift happening in the region is undeniable, and it’s inspiring to see Arab talent being recognized on global platforms. We are deeply invested in contributing to this momentum by not only telling compelling stories but also by creating meaningful connections with our audiences through initiatives that truly matter.

Our involvement extends far beyond entertainment and into areas that align with human interest and social responsibility. A great example is our work with Cartoon Network’s Buddy Campaign in collaboration with UNICEF, where w e partnered with Saudi content creators "Saudi Reporters" to address bullying. This initiative empowers kids with tools to stand up against bullying and create positive friendships, which is such a relevant issue across the region. It’s not just about airing content—it’s about creating real change in the community and supporting a positive, inclusive environment. By working on campaigns like this, we amplify our brand’s presence in a way that resonates on a person a level with viewers, making them feel heard and valued.

We also believe in the power of amplifying regional voices on a global stage. That’s why we’re always exploring new ways to collaborate with local creators, storytellers, and innovators to bring stories that not only resonate locally but can also connect with a wider, international audience. Through these collaborations, we aim to showcase the incredible talent and diverse cultures of the MENA region, ensuring that the world sees the richness and depth of our region's storytelling. It’s this combination of creativity, relevance, and purpose that allows us to play a meaningful role in the region’s creative evolution, positioning the Arab world as a hub for powerful storytelling that extends well beyond borders.

There are currently a lot of companies trying to invest in either regular programming or online streaming platforms aimed for Arabic audiences, where does Warner Bros. Discovery stand vis a vis such initiatives and where does one go from here?

There’s no doubt that the region is seeing a surge of investment in both traditional programming and online streaming platforms aimed at Arabic audiences. It’s an exciting time for the industry, and we are well positioned to make a significant impact in this space. A key part of our strategy is forming strong, long-term relationships with regional players.

For example, in 2021, we launched discovery+ as a branded area on Jawwy TV, Intigral’s leading OTT service. This initiative provides Jawwy TV subscribers with access to a wide array of content from Warner Bros. Discovery international linear channels, including Discovery Channel, Fatafeat, TLC, HGTV and Investigation Discovery. We also strengthened our partnership with OSN last year, designating it as the exclusive home for HBO content in the region. This multi-year licensing deal ensures that audiences in MENA continue to enjoy high-quality programming like never before. Furthermore, our expanded collaboration with Evision, the media arm of eC, guarantees that viewers in the UAE can keep enjoying popular channels like CNN International HD, Cartoon Network HD, and CN Arabic.

We also understand the importance of catering to local tastes and interests. Our partnership with SRMG on launching Asharq Discovery, a free-to-view Arabic-language infotainment platform,

reflects our commitment to creating content that is both locally relevant and globally impactful. It’s about blending entertainment with meaningful engagement that adds value to the community.

I believe the next phase for Warner Bros. Discovery is about deepening these partnerships and continuing to innovate—whether that’s through new content formats, more localized programming, or further expanding our digital presence. We’re not just about bringing international content to the region but also making sure that the voices and stories of the Arab world are heard and celebrated on the global stage. That’s the path we’re on, and we’re excited to continue driving the future of entertainment in the region.

With significant growth in the industry, the Middle East media and entertainment market size is estimated at USD 42.72 billion in 2024. This is leading to a dynamic landscape that demands constant innovation and adaptability to not only meet but exceed the expectations of our audience in the ever-evolving world of children's entertainment. 

Journey of Brand Visibility and Emotional Connection

The challenge of the children's brand visibility among the competition becomes apparent. Pre-schooler kids have important developmental needs, so to keep this in mind, we must ensure when building content targeted towards them, it should carry social and emotional elements that can help nurture their young minds. Aligned with these principles, the goal is to amplify our presence among preschool audiences, offering content that fosters creativity, empathy, and resilience — the essential building blocks of early childhood.

To strengthen our connection with our audience, developing a distinctive and enjoyable brand identity is vital. Reviving nostalgic characters not only evokes cherished memories for existing fans but also establishes a bond between parents and children as they share experiences of beloved kids shows from their past. This approach aims to tap into the nostalgia of current fans while captivating a new generation of viewers.

Forging Bonds Between the Community

I firmly believe in the power of collaboration and partnerships, recognizing that great things happen when we work together. Partnerships play a pivotal role in elevating brand awareness and providing a platform for innovation and change.

Our approach takes a human-centric perspective, focusing on combating bullying through initiatives like Cartoon Network's – The Buddy Network. This year, our emphasis is on raising awareness and addressing bullying, encouraging children to unite against it, and promoting values of kindness and empathy. The initiative equips kids with tools to recognize and address bullying behaviors, instilling a sense of responsibility.

The changing preferences of young people in the region have gained a lot of attention, and there's a growing interest in local Arabic content. This is expected to significantly boost the growth of regional media. To deeply connect with the MENA community, local collaborations are essential. Partnering with local establishments like popular kids' play areas or theme parks allows us to integrate seamlessly into the community's narrative. 

Navigating Trends in 2024

Staying relevant in today's children's media landscape demands adapting to current trends and being present where kids love to spend time. An example of this is Climate Champions. Through multiplatform strategies, gamification on Roblox, and bespoke content on social media, we empower kids to combat climate change through multiple touchpoints.

AI's transformative technology is ubiquitous in discussions, from news and advertisements to movies, with countless companies now incorporating it into their products. Many media and production companies explore AI's potential, and as AI-generated content emerges, audience reception will become evident. I believe whilst AI has the power to reshape working methods, certain uses can pose serious risks. Ensuring any potential AI use is smart, responsible, ethical, and legally compliant, is paramount. As an animation studio, it's also crucial to protect artists and the art form.

As of October 2023, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were the highest countries with a TikTok reach of over 130%. Short-form video content is surging as kids spend substantial time on smaller screens. Promoting more short videos is vital, acting as a gateway to encourage viewers to watch longer show formats. With platforms like Instagram and TikTok's popularity, short-form videos are expected to dominate social media, providing engaging content aligned with users' shorter attention spans.

As we move forward into the remainder of 2024, the success of children's entertainment companies hinges on their ability to adapt, innovate, and maintain a deep understanding of the evolving preferences and needs of their young audience.

Asharq Discovery is a new venture in the infotainment sector, born from the collaboration between SRMG, an integrated media group from the MENA region, and Warner Bros. Discovery. This partnership taps into viewer preferences and the demand for Arabic-language shows and aims to enrich the Arabic-language content available for viewers, offering content for free. The platform went live in October 2023 and includes thousands of hours of premium content from Discovery's renowned catalog, carefully selected acquisitions from the MENA region, and a range of original productions​​​​​​. All content is re-versioned with Arabic voiceovers and graphics, and available for the first time in Arabic for free​​.

2. Have you noticed a growing preference for original Arabic content as opposed to existing content that is merely dubbed into Arabic?

The increasing demand for authentic Arabic content is undeniably evident. Viewers across the MENA region are growing in preference for original Arabic content, which offers narratives and storytelling that resonate with their cultural and social contexts. This shift is not just about language; it's about seeing their stories, perspectives, and experiences reflected on screen, which dubbed content may not fully capture.

At Warner Bros. Discovery, we recognize the importance of original storytelling, and it's why we're committed to developing content that speaks directly to Arabic audiences. Through our partnership, we provide a platform for dubbed content from our catalog and we’re investing in the production of original Arabic programming, which will foster regional narratives and talent, with production happening within the region.

3. Are viewers more inclined to enjoy Arabic-dubbed content from various countries, or do they tend to prefer subtitled versions? What other MENA consumer habits have you been tapping into with your streaming platforms?

Our insights at Warner Bros. Discovery reveal a subtle preference among MENA viewers regarding Arabic-dubbed versus subtitled content. The inclination varies widely depending on factors such as the genre of content, the target demographic, and the individual's media consumption habits. For instance, family and children's programming and action and adventure genres tend to be more prevalent when dubbed, as they offer ease of understanding and a more immersive experience for all age groups. Conversely, for content that is more dialogue-driven or where performance is key to storytelling, such as drama series or feature films, many viewers prefer subtitles to retain the authenticity of the original performances.

In adapting to these preferences, we ensure that our streaming platforms provide options for dubbed and subtitled content, catering to the region's diverse tastes. Moreover, we are tapping into other consumer habits, such as the MENA audience's love for mobile-first content consumption, by optimizing our platforms for mobile devices and offering downloadable content for on-the-go viewing.

Through Asharq Discovery and our streaming services, we're leveraging data-driven insights to tailor our content offerings and ensure that we meet the evolving demands of MENA consumers. By adapting to these habits and preferences, we aim to serve our audiences with content that entertains, informs, and fosters a deeper connection with them.

4. How does Asharq Discovery align its content with the cultural values of the Arab region? Can we anticipate content that resonates with Arab values?

Asharq Discovery is committed to respecting and reflecting the rich cultural values of the Arab region. Our content alignment strategy begins with a careful selection process, ensuring that the programs we choose to showcase not only entertain, but also resonate with our audience's values, traditions, and social norms. This is evident in our approach to dubbing international content with a sensitivity towards cultural nuances and our creation of original content from within the region.

We are particularly excited about the locally produced content with regional creators such as The recently launched shows The Critics and Test Drive. The Critics is a weekly program that highlights the most prominent films and box office revenues, in addition to the latest releases hosted by Passant Shamseddine, and Maher Mousli. Test Drive is a show hosted by Saudi influencer and comedian Tareq Al-Harbi that combines entertainment, competitions, and general knowledge. Such types of local shows enable us to present stories that are authentic, relatable, and genuinely representative of Arab culture and values.

Additionally, Asharq Discovery aims to be a platform where Arab viewers see their lives and experiences reflected and is aiming to launch more original shows in the next few months. From lifestyle and reality programming that mirrors contemporary Arab society to documentaries that delve into the region's history and future aspirations, we are curating a collection that speaks directly to the hearts and minds of our audience.

5. Given the current regional developments, how do you envision the future of the entertainment industry?

The MENA region's entertainment industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation, marked by rapid technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and a burgeoning appetite for diverse content. Looking to the future, I anticipate a continued trajectory of growth and innovation.

Digital streaming platforms are at the forefront of this revolution, offering access to various content, and it's likely to persist as viewers appreciate the convenience and personalization these services provide. The trend towards on-demand content consumption is driving traditional media to adapt, leading to a hybrid future where linear TV and digital platforms coexist and complement one another.

Furthermore, the rise of local content production is set to reshape the entertainment landscape. As viewers seek stories that reflect their own experiences and cultures, there is a growing investment in regional talent and storytelling. This focus on local narratives will satisfy regional audiences and introduce the richness of Arab culture to a global audience.

We also anticipate a more integrated entertainment experience, with cross-platform content and interactive media gaining prominence. Virtual and augmented reality is set to enhance the viewer's engagement, offering immersive experiences beyond traditional viewing.

Sam Barnett, CEO of MBC GROUP, commented, “We have had a strong relationship with Warner Bros. Discovery for two decades and this deal cements it for years to come. The deal allows MBC GROUP to show some of the biggest theatrical titles by Warner Bros. to our audiences across the Middle East and North Africa and expand our Cartoon Network offering across the region. We’re delighted to maintain this partnership and we are looking forward to all the benefits it can bring both to our channels and to our streaming platform Shahid.”

Jamie Cooke, GM CEE, Middle East & Turkey of Warner Bros. Discovery says: “MBC is a highly valued and longstanding partner for Warner Bros. Discovery in MENA. We are happy to have found new ways to deepen our longstanding relationship while reinforcing our commitment to Free TV. This partnership with them allows us to offer our unparalleled collection of content and provide consumers with entertainment variety.”

The partnership with Warner Bros. will result in the group securing rights to broadcast the studio’s latest Hollywood blockbusters on MBC2 – the leading English-language movie channel in MENA – up to the year 2026. This includes the showcase of “first-run” box office hits for a free-to-air TV channel, such as “Tenet”, “Wonder Woman 1984”, “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part”, “Godzilla: King of the Monsters”, “It Chapter Two”, and “Joker”.

Major franchises that also form part of this extension include Batman, Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts, and Lord of the Rings. The extended partnership also results in MBC Group expanding on its Cartoon Network offerings, by launching the Cartoon Network Arabia channel on Shahid – the Arabic streaming platform,  for one year until September 2023.

English-language content will also be made available, with an additional 250 episodes of Cartoon Network content expected to be added to a brand-new Shahid Kids subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) Cartoon Network-branded hub. Titles including “We Are Bears”, “Teen Titans GO!”, “The Amazing World Of Gumball”, “Coach Me If You Can” “Tom & Jerry”, and “Looney Tunes” will continuously be updated on Shahid Kids every quarter.

The companies set out to merge and become a standalone media business in May 2021, with AT&T aiming to focus more on its wireless ambitions and Discovery looking to beef up its content library. Warner Bros Discovery’s portfolio includes Discovery Channel, Warner Bros. Entertainment, CNN, HBO, Cartoon Network; streaming services Discovery+ and HBO Max; and franchises like “Batman” and “Harry Potter”.

Today, the company announces its leadership team for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Priya Dogra, President, and Managing Director, EMEA commented on the announcement,  “My focus has been to build a senior team that harnesses and balances the experience, perspective, and talent from across the Discovery and  WarnerMedia businesses. Each leader will be responsible for continuing the necessary transitions into new  means of distribution and new forms of growth, as well as integrating our two organizations into one team,  with one clear strategy and a common, respectful culture.”

The following executives will be responsible for Warner Bros. Discovery’s combined businesses in their respective territories working in close coordination with the company’s global functions across Streaming,  Sport, US Programming, and the Studio, and for each line of business, developing territory-specific strategies to drive growth and efficiencies. These include pay and FTA networks, leading significant efforts in marketing and monetizing US content across lines of business including theatrical, licensing, consumer products, games, and home entertainment, and shared responsibility for the streaming services.

Alessandro Araimo becomes General Manager, in Italy, Spain, and Portugal. He was previously EVP and General  Manager for Discovery in Italy.

Pierre Branco becomes General Manager, France, Benelux, and Africa. He was previously Country Manager for WarnerMedia in France, Benelux, Middle East, and Africa and Head of Affiliates and Ad Sales for EMEA.

Jamie Cooke becomes General Manager, CEE, Baltics, Middle East, Mediterranean, and Turkey. He was previously Country Manager for Discovery across CEE and Middle East & Africa.

Jamie Cooke becomes General Manager, CEE, Baltics, Middle East, Mediterranean, and Turkey.

Hannes Heyelmann becomes General Manager, in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. He was previously EVP  Programming for WarnerMedia across EMEA.

Antonio Ruiz becomes General Manager, UK, and Ireland. He was previously General Manager for Discovery in Spain, France, and Portugal.

Christina Sulebakk becomes General Manager, Nordics. She was previously General Manager of HBO Max across Europe.

Other executives that will be part of Priya Dogra’s leadership team and supporting the General Managers across the region are:

Vanessa Brookman continues as SVP Kids and Family, EMEA, and takes on responsibility for Adult Swim across  EMEA with a dual reporting line to Michael Ouweleen, who leads Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, and  Boomerang.

Antony Root continues his responsibilities for original production for HBO Max across EMEA as well as original production for the WM general entertainment channels in Germany, France, and Spain.

Ragnhild Thorbech continues her responsibilities for programming and acquisitions for HBO Max EMEA.

Myriam Lopez-Otazu continues her responsibilities for guiding investment, planning, and prioritization for the Discovery linear channels and discovery+ working closely with the territory GMs and coordinating with the US programming team. 

Qaisar Rafique becomes lead for Commercial Strategy expanding the role he played at Discovery to the broader portfolio.

As previously announced, Leah Hooper is the regional lead for Streaming for EMEA, sitting on JB Perrette’s leadership team and being an integral part of Priya Dogra’s senior team. 

The following executives have decided to step down:

Sylvia Rothblum, Country Manager, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland for WarnerMedia. Susanne Aigner, GSVP & General Manager, Germany, Switzerland, Austria & Benelux for Discovery. Thomas Ciampa, Country Manager for Italy, Spain, and Portugal for WarnerMedia.  Lydia Fairfax, SVP Commercial Partnerships, EMEA for Discovery. 

David Fisher, VP Advance Advertising for Discovery.

Priya Dogra, President, and Managing Director, EMEA, further added, “Sylvia, Susanne, Thomas, Lydia, and  David have created enormous value for our company and each has shaped the careers of so many along the way. I am grateful for their many contributions and their assistance in ensuring a smooth transition and  I wish them the very best.”

This deal represents one of the most comprehensive content acquisition deals for beIN. Starting this year, beIN will have access to series such as Arrow, Gotham, and Originals, and will acquire the exclusive second pay window rights to Warner Bros. theatrical features.

From 2019, beIN will become the exclusive home of Warner Bros.’ first-run programming, series and first pay window feature films. In addition to acquiring the pay TV window, beIN has acquired catch-up rights as well as access to the library of content from Warner Bros.

Commenting on the deal, Yousef Al-Obaidly, deputy CEO of beIN Media Group says in a statement, “I am thrilled that we would be able to feature amazing super-hero movies and franchises on beIN Movies. Warner Bros. deal will also enable us to access amazing series like Arrow, Gotham and Originals and bring these great series to our subscribers in the region through beIN Series. beIN is constantly trying to achieve a leadership position within entertainment space and this deal with Warner Bros. will help us become the number one choice for movies and entertainment lovers in MENA”.

Jeffrey Schlesinger, President, Warner Bros. Worldwide Television Distribution, adds, “We are pleased that our feature films and television series will have a home across beIN’s channels in the Middle East and Africa, with our content making its regional debut across these channels starting in 2019. We are looking forward to working with the teams at beIN to market our programming in this important region for our business.”

This means, OSN subscribers will have continued first and exclusive access to Warner Bros.’ breadth of movies in the shortest possible span after their theatrical release as well as its TV series. OSN aims to offer some key shows, at the same minute as they premiere in the US.

OSN subscribers can access all of Warner Bros. content in full HD on both OSN pay-TV channels and on a catch-up basis via OSN On Demand and OSN Play, the online viewing platform.

David Butorac, CEO of OSN, says in a press satement: “This is a milestone partnership that enhances our content delivery and demonstrates our focus on delivering outstanding entertainment for our subscribers.”

Jeffrey Schlesinger, President, Warner Bros. Worldwide Television Distribution adds: “OSN has quickly become as the top-rated and fastest growing pay-TV network in the MENA region, one of the key markets for Warner Bros. Through this deal, we will deliver our premium content spanning hit movies, popular TV series to OSN’s subscribers exclusively.”

OSN subscribers will have the opportunity of accessing Warner’s premium portfolio of movies such as Gravity, Interstellar, The Lego Movie and 300: Rise of an Empire; franchises including The Hangover, Superman and The Hobbit. Viewers can also look forward to an upcoming slate of potential hits like Mad Max: Fury Road, The Man From U.N.C.L.E. and Entourage and superhero movies from the D.C. universe such as Batman v. Superman and the entire Justice League franchise.

Khulud Abu Homos, OSN’s executive vice-president for programming, adds: “Warner Bros. is a top-rated content creator and a world leader in premium and popular entertainment, with one of the largest portfolios of mega-hit movies. Through the agreement, OSN becomes the ultimate home for top-notch, exclusive Hollywood entertainment for the next five years. We will be the first to telecast blockbuster movies from Warner Bros. in our region following their theatrical release, providing unmatched value for our subscribers.”

OSN will also be the home of all of Warner’s upcoming TV series and will continue to exclusively screen shows such as The Flash, Supernatural, 2 Broke Girls, Two and a Half Men and The Ellen DeGeneres Show, among others.