Zee Network, the Indian satellite television broadcaster, is establishing the headquarters for its international operations in the Dubai Media City (DMC).
Zee, which claims to be the world's largest producer of Hindi language programming, will invest Dh30 million in the initial phase of the facility, which will be equipped with the latest infrastructure.
Subhash Chandra, chairman and managing director of Zee Telefilms Ltd., said: "Considering that Dubai is at the crossroads of the Middle East, Europe, Africa and South Asia, this move is strategic to Zee Network as it will enhance our reach to our international viewers.
"Zee Network, as a global media conglomerate, would like to associate with Dubai Media City, which is rapidly emerging as a global media hub. Dubai Media City is not only providing us with a business-enabling infrastructure but also a community of like-minded individuals and companies, with a rich environment and networking opportunities."
Dubai Media City is the base for over 30 broadcasters operating more than 60 TV channels.
With a bouquet of 21 satellite TV channels dispersed around the Indian sub-continent, Zee Network enjoys an estimated reach of 6.5 million households, and a viewership of 225 million people in over 80 countries.
Zee Network will use the Dubai Media City facility for the uplinking of its international broadcasting.
The regions they service include the Middle East, North Africa, South Africa, the Indian subcontinent, CIS countries and Europe.
Ahmad Bin Byat, director-general of Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone, said: "DMC has always been keen to partner with leading international and regional media players which contribute to our vision of building a unique and specialised media cluster.
"We see our partnership with Zee Telefilms as a vehicle to achieve this and at the same time enhance Zee's position of leadership in the global broadcast industry."
Gulf News
