From costume fantasy to modern romance and comedy, the free streaming service Starz ON will release a diverse range of Chinese-language dramas, animations, and movies across the MENA region.
Evision, the media and entertainment arm of e&, has acquired the rights to popular Chinese dramas, animation, and movies from iQIYI, an online entertainment service in China. This strategic partnership aims to position Starz ON, Evision’s free streaming service, as the go-to destination for Chinese entertainment in the MENA region.
Commenting on the content deal, Olivier Bramly, Chief Executive Officer, Evision, said: “This partnership transcends simply expanding our content library, whilst becoming the first partner of iQIYI in the MENA region. It’s a strategic move to position Starz ON at the forefront of a global entertainment shift. Chinese content is captivating audiences worldwide, and by offering this diverse and high-quality selection to MENA viewers, we’re fostering cultural exchange and solidifying our commitment to delivering the most in-demand entertainment experiences.”
In recent years, Chinese dramas have surged in popularity across global markets. With their storytelling, rich cultural elements, and production quality, these shows have garnered a substantial international following. MENA viewers will now have the opportunity to discover stories that resonate with their interests, enhancing their viewing experience with diverse narratives that cater to varied audience preferences.
Sunil K Joy, Head of Content at Evision, added: “The global appeal of Chinese-language dramas is undeniable. Hits like the 2023 fantasy drama series Love Between Fairy and Devil, which topped iQIYI’s global rankings and soon to be on Starz ON, exemplify their growing popularity. Yet, to capture a broader and more diverse audience in newer markets like MENA, such strategic initiatives are essential. To this end, all content will feature Arabic subtitles, ensuring viewers can fully immerse themselves in these captivating stories.”
The partnership brings a treasure trove of narratives to MENA audiences. From the action of Kung Fu epics like Monkey King: The One and Only to the intricate tales of love and destiny in Destiny’s Love, viewers can explore a rich tapestry of genres. The library also features the world of fantasy with the anime No Choice But to Betray the Earth, the drama Destiny’s Love, and the lighthearted romantic comedy Chasing Love.
Xianghua YANG, Senior Vice President of iQIYI, stated: “This partnership marks a milestone for iQIYI’s global presence. By bringing premium Chinese content to MENA audiences, we believe this collaboration with Evision will resonate deeply, creating new and diverse business opportunities. We are excited to deliver a superior viewing experience to Evision’s users while expanding the reach of Chinese content.”
