MBC Group - statistics & facts
In a rapidly evolving media landscape, Saudi-based MBC Group has distinguished itself with its financial performance, recently highlighted by Bloomberg as the world’s best-performing Initial Public Offering (IPO). As the largest media conglomerate in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and home to the world’s leading Arabic streaming platform Shahid, MBC has established a significant presence both locally and internationally. With a diverse portfolio encompassing television, radio, digital streaming, and content production, MBC influences media consumption for over 270 million Arabic-speakers worldwide.
MBC Group remains an influential player in the media landscape, both across the MENA region and globally, well poised to adapt to the changing media environment due to its solid financial backing and strong understanding of its audience. Despite challenges such as the impact of the Israel-Gaza war, the group’s strategic focus on expanding content production and maintaining its leadership in digital streaming positions it for continued success.
MBC’s expanding influence
MBC Group stands out as a major force in MENA’s media industry, offering a broad range of programs through more than 17 channels. Its digital streaming service, Shahid VIP, is a leader in the Arab world’s OTT market, with subscription revenue exceeding 486 billion Saudi riyal in 2022. The group’s extensive operations span key cities like Dubai, Riyadh, Cairo, and Beirut, employing thousands of professionals from across the region. Highlighting its commitment to expanding content creation, MBC’s CEO announced plans to produce substantial content in Saudi Arabia, with the first phase of a new production facility in Al-Narjis, Riyadh, completed in 2023. This development is a key part of MBC’s strategy to boost its production capacity within the Kingdom.MBC’s market leadership
MBC Group, now publicly traded on the Saudi Exchange, Tadawul, since January 2024, has reinforced its financial stability with significant revenues from advertising, Shahid VIP subscriptions, and content licensing. Backed by the government owned Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), which holds a majority stake in MBC, the company benefits from strong financial support that aligns with national media objectives. Dominating the MENA market in television viewership and digital usage, MBC attracts a diverse audience across 22 countries, making it a prime platform for advertisers. Despite facing competition from regional rivals like OSN and beIN Media Group and global giants such as Netflix, MBC's local expertise and strong brand loyalty help it maintain a competitive edge. Shahid leads the region in share of SVOD subscription users, surpassing Netflix, further solidifying MBC's position in the digital media arena.Navigating controversies
MBC Group has faced its share of controversies, particularly allegations of censorship and bias in its news coverage on Al Arabiya, which critics link to the company’s close ties with the Saudi government. These concerns intensified after the Saudi government acquired a majority stake in MBC during a 2018 corruption crackdown. The recent Israel-Gaza war further challenged the group, as the conflict’s widespread trauma in the region deeply affected MBC's audience and content. Although the group maintained its scripted shows, there was a noticeable shift towards news and current events, reflecting the somber mood of the region. This trauma was mirrored in a significant drop in advertising revenue as advertisers withdrew joyful FMCG ads amid the ongoing crisis.MBC Group remains an influential player in the media landscape, both across the MENA region and globally, well poised to adapt to the changing media environment due to its solid financial backing and strong understanding of its audience. Despite challenges such as the impact of the Israel-Gaza war, the group’s strategic focus on expanding content production and maintaining its leadership in digital streaming positions it for continued success.
