Strengthening Regional Streaming with a Strategic Investment
In a move to expand its footprint in the Middle Eastâs booming entertainment market, Warner Bros. Discovery has invested $57 million in OSN+, the UAE-based streaming platform owned by OSN Group. This investment gives Warner Bros. an approximate 30% stake in the company, signaling a strategic push to cater to the regionâs growing demand for premium content.
The deal, which is still subject to regulatory approvals, will conclude in stages. It is part of OSNâs broader vision to enhance its streaming services and produce more regional content for Middle Eastern audiences.
A Deepening Partnership
This investment further solidifies the relationship between Warner Bros. and OSN. In 2022, OSN signed a multi-year licensing deal with HBO, securing exclusive rights to stream and broadcast the networkâs content in the region. Additionally, in 2023, OSN secured exclusive rights to Warner Bros.â film catalog, strengthening its library of globally recognized titles.
Now, with Warner Bros. taking a direct stake in OSN+, both companies are looking to expand content offerings, produce more localized shows, and enhance streaming experiences for Middle Eastern audiences.
Investing in Regional Content
Joe Kawkabani, CEO of OSN Group, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating:
âWhether itâs producing content, expanding our content library, or creating better content, this deal allows us to do it all.â
The Middle Eastern streaming market is experiencing rapid growth, with audiences demanding high-quality local and international content. With Warner Bros.â backing, OSN+ is now in a stronger position to compete with global streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video while continuing to dominate the regional streaming space.
OSNâs Expanding Investments
This partnership comes just after OSN Groupâs $55 million investment in Anghami, the Lebanon-founded music streaming platform, in December 2024. This move highlights OSNâs broader strategy of strengthening digital entertainment services across different media sectors.
With Warner Bros. joining as a stakeholder, OSN+ aims to scale its operations, produce original Arabic-language content. Furthermore, it wants to establish itself as a key player in the regionâs digital entertainment landscape.
The Future of OSN+ and Warner Bros. in the Middle East
With this investment, Warner Bros. Discovery is betting on the Middle Eastâs growing appetite for premium streaming services. The collaboration with OSN+ is expected to bring new exclusive titles, and local productions. It also wants to enhance streaming experiences to audiences across the region.
As the streaming industry in the Middle East continues to evolve, OSN+ is well-positioned to lead the charge, offering both Hollywood blockbusters and homegrown stories tailored to the regionâs diverse audience.