MBC Group & NBCUniversal Extend Licensing Deal

MBC Group has extended its licensing deal with NBCUniversal to bring Hollywood movies from Universal Pictures and DreamWorks Animation to audiences across the Middle East and North Africa.

This latest multiyear extension is part of a 20-plus year ongoing relationship between MBC Group and NBCUniversal.

The newly extended licensing deal sees MBC Group securing rights to broadcast a range of titles by Universal Pictures and DreamWorks Animation on the English-language movie channel MBC2 in MENA. This includes the showcase of first-run box-office hits for a free-to-air TV channel, such as F9: The Fast Saga, The Boss Baby: Family Business, The Croods: A New Age and The Invisible Man, as well as the Bourne, Despicable Me, Jurassic Park and The Mummy film franchises.

The enhanced licensing deal also sees titles appearing on the Shahid streaming platform. Featured titles include Shrek, Shrek 2, Sing, Trolls, The Secret Life of Pets, Minions, Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax and Shark Tale.

Sam Barnett, CEO of MBC Group, commented: “We are pleased to extend our licensing deal with NBCUniversal. This deal allows us to bring top Hollywood titles to our audiences in the region.

“Through our collaboration, we are not only able to expand the reach of NBCUniversal content but also to work together to offer a range of films to different groups of people. We can bring major action and drama franchises, as well as family-friendly animations, to our various demographics.”

Belinda Menendez, president and chief revenue officer for NBCUniversal Global Distribution, said, “We are delighted to extend our longstanding relationship with MBC Group through this new licensing deal. As a result of this agreement, MBC Group can ensure that their viewers throughout the Middle East and North Africa will have a front-row seat to watch NBCUniversal’s blockbuster films for many years to come. From animated movies to action-packed thrillers, there truly is something for everyone in the family to enjoy!”