Al-Hurra, a new Arabic-language satellite television network, began broadcasting to millions of viewers in 22 countries across the Middle East on 14 February 2004.
Al-Hurra (Arabic for “The Free One”) is devoted primarily to news and information. In addition to reporting on regional and international events, the channel broadcasts discussion programmes, current affairs magazines and features on a variety of subjects including health and personal fitness, entertainment, sports, fashion, and science and technology.
Al-Hurra is operated by The Middle East Television Network Inc., a non-profit corporation funded by the US Congress through the Broadcasting Board of Governors BBG (a federal agency that supervises all US non-military international broadcasting). The channel broadcasts from studios in Springfield, Virginia and bureaux throughout the Middle East.
Norman J. Pattiz, chairman of the BBG’s Middle East committee who spearheaded development of Al-Hurra, said, “Al-Hurra will present fresh perspectives for viewers in the Middle East that we believe will create more cultural understanding and respect.”
Al-Hurra is available to viewers in the Middle East on the region’s two major satellite systems, Arabsat and Nilesat. The broadcast schedule is posted on the channels web site.
The Broadcasting Board of Governors is a member of the AIB.