Nickelodeon Arabia hits Middle East screens July 23

Dubai, July 20, 2008 (WAM) - Nickelodeon Arabia, the Middle East's first Arabic-language, free-to-air channel dedicated exclusively to Arab kids aged 2-14 years old, is set to launch on Nilesat and Arabsat on 23 July 2008, delivering the very best in kids' multi-media entertainment.

Abdullatif Al Sayegh, CEO of Arab Media Group, commented: "Nickelodeon is the most widely-distributed, kid-focused multi-media brand in the world and appeals to both girls and boys alike. Key properties such as SpongeBob Square Pants and Dora the Explorer are enjoyed by kids around the world and we're confident Nickelodeon Arabia will become the go-to destination for Arab kids both on and off air.

Nickelodeon Arabia will hit airwaves at 6am (KSA), kicking off with
internationally renowned animated series, Rugrats. The channel will showcase a mixture of programming including international content from Nickelodeon's unrivalled portfolio such as pre-school hit Dora the Explorer as well as SpongeBob Square Pants and Jimmy Neutron for older kids, teen live-action favourites Drake and Josh and Unfabulous, and the famous Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards.

Additionally, Nickelodeon Arabia will air original local productions from launch to ensure a wholly relevant experience for Arab audiences. Shoof Kids, hosted by engaging seven-year-old Emirati, Wa'ad, will give kids the chance to send in their own home-made videos exploring interesting phenomena such as pearl diving, folklore dancing, or anything else of interest to kids, which will be aired on the channel.

Hosts Rani and Asalah will welcome viewers to the Jumetna Friday afternoon programming block, screening some of the best Nickelodeon shows along with lots of interactive games, fun and surprises! Nickelodeon Arabia falls under the umbrella of Arabian Television Network (ATN), Arab Media Group's TV broadcasting arm, which also incorporates MTV Arabia, which is operated under license from MTV Networks International.