Media
From The Report: Qatar 2024
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Since the inception of its first mass media outlets – both radio and TV – in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Qatar has transformed into a major regional and global media centre, with a reach of 430m households by its major networks worldwide. However, the industry faced challenges following the 2017 trade blockade imposed by some Arab neighbours, which resulted in competing narratives on regional networks. Progress since the January 2021 agreement to restore ties has been accelerated by Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which garnered coverage from the international press. Building upon its success, the media segment is now evolving in tandem with dynamic changes in the international media landscape.

This chapter contains interviews with Marwan Kraidy, Dean and CEO of Northwestern University in Qatar; and Jaber Al Ansari, Group CEO of ELAN Group.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Emerging broadcaster: Ongoing state support and access to modern technology are allowing domestic media outlets to expand their global reach
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As a pioneer in media investment, Qatar has emerged as a regional leader in the media and entertainment segments. Since the inception of its first mass media outlets – both radio and TV – in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the country has transformed into a major regional and global media centre, with a reach of 430m households by its major networks worldwide. The establishment of Media City Qatar (MCQ) in 2019 sought to help the country build on past achievements. Home to both domestic and international…

Interview

Nurturing talent: Marwan Kraidy, Dean and CEO, Northwestern University in Qatar, on changing trends within the higher education space
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Interview:Marwan Kraidy In what ways is higher education adapting media programmes to address evolving trends? MARWAN KRAIDY: Liberal arts higher education institutions focus on enduring skills, such as writing and critical thinking, which remain relevant regardless of industry changes. We are quick to adapt to industry developments. However, we recognise that we can never be fast enough. Our approach involves a dual focus: an emphasis on foundational skills and an agile response to…

Interview

Digital trends: Jaber Al Ansari, Group CEO, ELAN Group, on data integration, advanced technology and sustainability initiatives within the country’s expanding media segment
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Interview:Jaber Al Ansari How has the outdoor advertising landscape evolved in recent years and what emerging trends do you foresee shaping its future? JABER AL ANSARI: Qatar’s outdoor advertising scene has undergone a significant transformation, propelled by technological advancement, economic shifts and evolving consumer preferences. Key trends, including digital transformation, interactive advertising, datadriven targeting and sustainability are shaping the future of the segment. These…

Analysis

Expanding coverage: New avenues of growth and investment by domestic firms are influencing the global sports and entertainment arenas
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With Qatar’s increased global prominence following its hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, domestic media companies are continuing to expand their international footprint. In the past, these entities have spearheaded the acquisition of renowned international media brands. Notably, Al Jazeera Media Network, a pioneering Qatari media outlet and the first independent news channel in the Arab world, ventured into the international market by acquiring US-based Current TV for $500m in 2013. Qatar’s…