Al Jazeera 360: A New Era in Arab Media
Al Jazeera Media Network has officially launched its innovative digital platform, Al Jazeera 360, on Sunday. This new viewing platform and video-on-demand (OTT) service is set to revolutionize the way Arab audiences consume media, featuring a vast digital library of programmes and documentaries. With over 20 original programmes produced specifically for the platform, it aims to cater to diverse viewer interests, including cultural, entertainment, dialogue, and religious themes.
The platform marks a significant return for Al Jazeera News Channel programmes, which had been suspended since last October due to extensive coverage of regional events, particularly the ongoing Israeli war on the Gaza Strip. Al Jazeera 360 will now serve as the exclusive broadcasting venue for these programmes, ensuring that viewers have access to timely and relevant content.
In addition to original programming, Al Jazeera 360 offers an extensive archive dating back to the network's inception in 1996, which includes around 50,000 hours of content from various Al Jazeera channels. This treasure trove of documentaries, films, and investigative pieces will be made available to the public for free, providing a rich resource for viewers seeking in-depth information and diverse perspectives.
- ## Empowering Viewers with Freedom of Choice
- The launch of Al Jazeera 360 comes at a crucial time when media access is increasingly restricted on social media platforms, particularly for Arab audiences. Sheikh Hamad bin Thamer Al Thani, Chairman of Al Jazeera Media Network, emphasized that the platform embodies the network’s commitment to empowering viewers with accurate and balanced media content.
- Dr. Mustafa Souag, the acting director general of the network, highlighted that Al Jazeera 360 is designed to give audiences the freedom to choose what they watch, when they watch it, and where they watch it. This aligns with Al Jazeera's longstanding principle of promoting diverse opinions and fostering informed discussions.
- Furthermore, the platform has attracted prominent Arab media figures while also providing opportunities for emerging talent, reinforcing Al Jazeera's role as a leader in the Arab media landscape.
