MBC Group has boosted the distribution of its seven high definition (HD) channels through a deal with a Dubai-based satellite-TV company.
The Arab world's biggest broadcaster said My-HD Media will carry its HD channels on a satellite-TV service available across the Middle East and North Africa.
The channels included in the deal include MBC1, MBC Drama, and the Al Arabiya News Channel.
Consumers must purchase a My-HD viewing card to access the channels, and also need a compatible set-top box.
Sam Barnett, the chief executive of MBC Group, said he anticipates reducing the number of standard-definition (SD) channels run by MBC as HD becomes more popular.
“We anticipate more viewers will upgrade their SD receivers for approved HD receivers,” said Mr Barnett in a statement.
The deal marks the latest move by MBC to boost distribution of its free HD channels, which are supported by advertising.
Late last year MBC said it had signed a deal with YahLive, the TV arm of the Abu Dhabi satellite company Yahsat, to carry all seven of MBC's HD channels.
The Abu Dhabi TV Network – part of Abu Dhabi Media, which owns and publishes The National – also carries the MBC channels.
