Warner Bros. Discovery takes minority stake in Dubai's OSN to accelerate MENA growth plan

2025-03-25 00:45:00

Abstract: WBD invests in OSN Streaming, solidifying its MENA presence. The partnership boosts local content and builds on OSN's regional streaming leadership.

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) today announced a strategic minority equity investment in OSN Streaming Ltd., part of the Dubai-based OSN Group. Through this investment, WBD is further solidifying its position in the region's rapidly growing streaming landscape, demonstrating a commitment to the Middle Eastern market.

This investment builds upon OSN's market leadership in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) streaming industry. OSN has been continuously developing its business, establishing long-term partnerships with major global players, including an exclusive agreement with HBO in 2022, and the acquisition of a majority stake in Anghami Inc. in April 2024, highlighting its strategic growth initiatives.

Jamie Cooke, Warner Bros. Discovery's General Manager and Executive Vice President for Central & Eastern Europe, Turkey, and the Middle East, stated, "Our ambition is to tell the greatest stories, while innovating our product and distribution channels. OSN has been a terrific partner and curator of our content, so this is a natural next step for WBD," emphasizing the synergistic nature of the partnership.

WBD's strategic investment in OSN reflects the company's emphasis on partnering with the best creative talent, advancing technology, and building key partnerships to drive sustained growth. Currently, the total number of global streaming subscribers for Max and Discovery+ is approaching 117 million, showcasing WBD's significant reach in the streaming market.

Cooke added, "Through this agreement, we are delighted to announce that both OSN and Warner Bros. Discovery will be investing in high-quality local productions, ensuring a richer and more diverse selection for viewers," emphasizing the commitment to enhance content offerings for the audience.

The partnership with OSN also underscores WBD's continued expansion in the Middle East and North Africa region, solidifying its position in one of the world's most dynamic entertainment markets. Since establishing a regional office in Dubai in 2012, WBD has steadily expanded its operations, bringing world-class entertainment content to audiences in the region, further enhancing its presence.

Joe Kawkabani, CEO of OSN Group, commented, "This investment is a significant milestone in OSN’s journey of growth, reinforcing our dedication to delivering unique and compelling content. It also strengthens our commitment to expand investment in local content, extending its reach from MENA to global audiences," demonstrating the mutual benefits of the partnership.

Kamco Investment Company K.S.C and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (Abu Dhabi office) served as transaction advisors to OSN Group, while A&O Shearman served as transaction advisors to WBD, providing expert guidance throughout the investment process.

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