BBC Arabic to Air 24/7

January 19, 2009 World Screen

LONDON: The BBC’s Arabic-language service, BBC Arabic, has expanded to a 24-hour broadcast format, with five new presenters to be featured from across the Arab world.

The expansion into a 24/7 TV service complements existing radio, Internet and mobile offerings from BBC Arabic. The channel is distributed free to air by Arabsat, Eutelsat and Nilesat satellite systems, and is also available on Channel 41 of the E Vision cable platform in the UAE and is streamed live via the website bbcarabic.com.
 
Hosam El Sokkari, the head of BBC Arabic, said: "Our TV operation has gone from strength to strength since its launch as a 12-hours-a-day operation in March 2008, and our 24/7 television service will offer a non-stop news service for Arabic-speakers whenever, and wherever, they want it. We have reinforced our presenter team with five new talents who will, no doubt, enrich our programming with new dynamics and style."
 
Joining the network as new presenters are Makki Helal, Dima Izzedin, Malak Jaafar, Tareq Naser and Nouran Sallam.