Zee to invest USD 100m in new Arabic channel

Zee Entertainment Enterprises has said it will invest USD 100 million in Zee Alwan, the second Arabic channel by the television provider, which will be launched here on September 12.

With Zee Alwan, the company is creating a new platform for talent collaboration between the Arab world and India, Zee Entertainment Enterprise LLC CEO, Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan, Mukund Cairae said.
 
Zee Alwan has received overwhelming response from Arab audiences across the Gulf region, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, following its soft launch, he said.
    
"We are further strengthening the programming of Zee Alwan with a focus on providing original Arabic content. This will benefit the creative community in the region, and add to the historic cultural linkages that have existed between Arabia and India for over several centuries," he added.
    
Zee Alwan follows the launch of Zee Aflam a dedicated movie channel beaming Bollywood movies dubbed in Arabic.
    
Zee Alwan VP (Marketing and Sales) and Zee Aflam General Manager in the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan, Patrick Samaha, said, "Providing opportunity for several Arab creative professionals to showcase their talent to a wide audience, Zee Alwan's USP is its content ranging from family serials to lifestyle shows for women, youngsters and the entire family."