Discovery launches Arabic website for Middle East television viewers

The site includes programming information and listings, live webcams, viewer polls and interactive games.

The development strengthens the company's ongoing commitment to build a closer relationship with Arabic speakers and gain a stronger understanding of the interests of viewers in the region.

The new website includes current and regularly updated television listings for the full portfolio of channels available in the Middle East including Animal Planet and Discovery Civilisation, as well as more detailed information and features about key Discovery Channel programmes broadcast exclusively on the Showtime network.

Interactivity is a key feature giving viewers an opportunity to participate in monthly surveys to give Discovery Networks a better understanding of the Arabic-speaking audience and their particular tastes and preferences.

These survey results will subsequently be published on a regular basis. The site is also designed to encourage consumers to contact Discovery directly with any questions as well as give viewers the opportunity to provide feedback on both the website and programming viewed on the channels.
www.discoverymiddleeast.com also offers a high level of entertainment with live webcams that are located in eight different locations around the world in addition to a selection of flash interactive games.

Elie Karam, Discovery spokesperson for the Middle East, commented: "Discovery is the leading global provider of educational, non-fiction programming and localisation is a key to the success of the brand.

"Since Discovery Channel launched exclusively on the Showtime network in the Middle East in 1997, all programmes have been subtitled in Arabic. The new website especially for Discovery viewers in the Middle East is an exciting new-media environment that is both informative and entertaining, and adds value to the Discovery experience."