Middle East pay-TV platform Orbit has gained exclusive distribution rights for EuroNews in 12 countries including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait in addition to non-exclusive rights across 13 other countries including the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt and Cyprus.
Launched in 1993, EuroNews – based in Lyon, France – covers world news from a European perspective. The channel was launched to all Orbit subscribers in English and in French during December. Viewers can select the language of their choice by pressing the language button on the remote control.
This exclusive deal adds to what Orbit describes as its “unmatched portfolio of information and news channels”.
Philippe Cayla, Chairman and CEO of EuroNews said, “The Middle East is a very significant market in terms of our international growth. I am pleased to have concluded an agreement with Orbit, an important platform in the region, EuroNews will be joining their offer which gives viewers the best in Arabic and Western programming. Our mission is to bring European viewers balanced coverage on world events and Middle East news and this is an integral part of EuroNews’ international agenda.
“Since the channel has become widely available worldwide it has been met with interest and EuroNews has proved that it is a leading news channel covering world news with a guarantee of independent, impartial reporting thus successfully avoiding taking a particular national viewpoint something that is clearly important to viewers across the globe .”
Samir Abdulhadi, President and CEO of Orbit Communications Company stated, “With enormous universal interest in news, information and political affairs EuroNews will have a strong appeal among Orbit’s audiences across the Middle East. EuroNews is one of the leading channels in the news category and we are pleased to sign this agreement which will enable us to deliver European news to our valued subscribers.