What's Happening?
Walt Disney Co. has announced a strategic partnership with Saudi media conglomerate MBC Group and UAE firm Anghami to offer a new streaming bundle in the Middle East. This bundle will include Disney+,
MBC Group's Shahid, and Anghami's OSN+, providing access to a variety of content including Arabic originals, live sports, and Hollywood productions. The bundle will be available in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE at a monthly cost of AED89.99, which is equivalent to the price of two of the streaming services. This move is part of Disney's broader strategy to expand its footprint in the region, which also includes plans to build a new theme park in Abu Dhabi in collaboration with local firm Miral.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of this streaming bundle signifies Disney's commitment to expanding its market reach in the Middle East, a region experiencing rapid growth in the entertainment sector. By partnering with local media companies, Disney is positioning itself to tap into new audiences who may not have easy access to its existing hubs in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. This expansion could lead to increased competition among streaming services in the region, potentially driving innovation and offering consumers more diverse content options. Additionally, the planned theme park in Abu Dhabi could further enhance Disney's brand presence and attract tourism, contributing to the local economy.
What's Next?
Disney's expansion in the Middle East is likely to prompt reactions from other major streaming services, which may seek similar partnerships to strengthen their presence in the region. The success of the streaming bundle could lead to further collaborations between international and local media companies, fostering a more integrated entertainment market. As Disney continues to grow its operations in the Middle East, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these developments impact the competitive landscape and consumer preferences.
