beIN ramps up MENA content with two Scripps channels Rebecca Hawkes
| 29 July 2016
Scripps Networks’ HGTV and Travel Channel are launching in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), following the latest content deal announced by pay-TV operator beIN Media.
beIN Media GroupTravel Channel, which will be available from 1 August, will air shows such as House Hunters International, Delicious Destinations, and Expedition Unknown.
The DIY-focused HGTV, which will be available on the MENA pay-TV platform from November, will include programming from new commissions Listed Sisters and Tiny House Hunters, as well as new seasons of renovation and real-estate Property Brothers and Love It or List It.
Premium content will be subtitled in Arabic at launch, with more subtitles added during the year.
“When you are looking for inspiration [HGTV] is the premiere destination for home improvement, DIY, design, real estate and landscaping content,” said Phillip Luff, the managing director, UK & EMEA at Scripps Networks Interactive. “We are thrilled to bring HGTV’s high quality content to audiences in the Middle East and North Africa in partnership with beIN.”
Yousef Al Obaidly, deputy chief executive officer, beIN Media Group, added: “Scripps Networks is well known globally for its premium quality factual programming. Their ability to produce and package content that is extremely relevant for discerning high net worth individuals and families is well recognised. I am pleased that through this partnership, beIN is able to bring two great channels to our viewers”.
The move follows the recent announcement that beIN Media was adding five channels from AMC Networks International to its MENA subscription-based offer, namely AMC, CBS Reality, Extreme Sports Channel, Outdoor Channel and JimJam.