Qvest took charge of designing, supplying, installing and commissioning advanced broadcast and digital media solutions.
Qvest has completed a large-scale broadcast transformation and modernisation of the media infrastructure for Sky News Arabia (SNA), a key brand under IMI Media Group. This project facilitates SNA’s seamless transition to IMI’s headquarters at Yas Island. The new facilities enhance operational efficiency, foster collaboration and drive the future of media production.
IMI Media Group is a global media powerhouse, bringing together brands such as Sky News Arabia, The National, Al-Ain News, and CNN Business Arabic, alongside the IMI Media Academy. The new headquarters consolidates many of IMI’s media brands under one roof, creating a dynamic environment that promotes innovation and synergy. Equipped with state-of-the-art studios and advanced broadcast technology, the facility enables visually immersive storytelling experiences for audiences worldwide.
As the Master Systems Integrator, Qvest led the design, supply, installation and commissioning of cutting-edge broadcast and digital media solutions. The project involved deploying an IP-based, ST-2110-compliant broadcast infrastructure, ensuring seamless workflows and integration with key third-party systems, including Avid, Vizrt and Telestream. This modernisation effort guarantees future-proof broadcast operations that align with evolving industry standards.
Brad Elliot, CTO at IMI, said: “The successful completion of this project marks a significant milestone for IMI as we unite our leading media brands under one roof at Yas Creative Hub. These state-of-the-art digital facilities, studios and technologies, made possible through our collaboration with Qvest, have elevated our technological capabilities and redefined how we create and deliver content to our audiences.”
A carefully executed migration plan ensured a smooth transition from legacy systems to the new infrastructure while maintaining uninterrupted on-air operations. Workflows were redefined and automated for content ingest, editing, transcoding and distribution, significantly boosting efficiency, scalability and reliability. Additionally, Qvest provided comprehensive staff training on the new systems, ensuring operational readiness, along with six months of on-site support.
To enhance reliability, the broadcast systems were integrated with redundant, fail-safe mechanisms, while real-time monitoring tools and quality assurance protocols were implemented to maintain high performance standards.
Philipp Glänzel, CTO and General Manager at Qvest MENA, added: “Our collaboration with IMI on this ambitious project underscores Qvest’s commitment to delivering innovative and future-proof solutions that meet the highest standards of broadcast and media production. By implementing cutting-edge technologies and streamlined workflows, we have successfully enhanced IMI’s operational capabilities and supported its vision of becoming a leader in the media landscape. This achievement reflects our dedication to excellence, collaboration, and the advancement of storytelling through technology.”
Beyond the core broadcast transformation, Qvest also designed and integrated advanced digital signage systems to enhance visitor engagement at Yas Creative Hub. These installations include a dual-sided display in the Welcome Center, dynamic screens in the L4 Hub Area and high-resolution monitors on the L7 Executive Floor. Utilising seamless fiber connectivity, advanced video control systems and noise-free technology, these visual solutions create an immersive experience while ensuring operational reliability.
