Saudi-Egyptian broadcast deal raises issue of censorship
In line with the reform campaign launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi TV has signed a contract to broadcast two Egyptian-produced series.
CAIRO — Saudi TV has signed a contract for the exclusive broadcast of two Egyptian drama series across the Arab world beginning during Ramadan 2018. On Dec. 8, Khaled Madkhali, director of state-owned Saudi TV, tweeted that he had signed a contract with Magnum Productions to broadcast “Hidden Worlds,” starring the legendary Egyptian actor Adel Imam, and “Tayeh,” starring the popular Amr Youssef. In a separate tweet, Madkhali added that the move is supported by Saudi Culture Minister Awad al-Awad, noting that it represents a quantum leap for Saudi TV. The cost of this deal has not been disclosed.
At a Cairo press conference on Dec. 3, Madkhali explained that a fondness for Egyptian dramas because of popular actors like Imam will make Saudi TV a center of attention in the Gulf and larger Arab world. Saudi TV is free and accessible across the Middle East.
