The study conducted by Arabsat in conjunction with IPSOS revealed that satellite continues to enjoy a whopping 97% market share in this region.
The MENA region has an unusually high number of free-to-air satellite channels compared to the rest of the world, and while we note increased affinity for streaming services and IPTV, some parts of the Arab world continue to remain loyal to satellite and with good reason. In fact, a recent MENA satellite penetration study conducted by Arabsat in conjunction with IPSOS revealed that satellite continues to enjoy a whopping 97% market share in this region.
Thats not unusual given that satellite serves as the sole content distribution platform in the more remote parts of the MENA region, where fibre and other infrastructure are minimal.
According to the study, the vast majority of MENA viewers almost 80% are under 44 years old, and at least 45% are under 30, which illustrates the strong sustainable relevance of satellite TV in MENA. As a result, operators are in a powerful position, with Arabsat enjoying the lions share of the pie in several Arab markets.
Almost 88% of homes in the GCC use satellite services provided by Arabsat. In markets like Saudi Arabia, Iran and Lebanon, the operator dominates the satellite space. In Iran, Arabsat has access to 97% of the TV market.
Likewise, it enjoys exceptional popularity in some parts of Africa and Europe. However, the satellite operator is also cognisant that change is coming. So, in addition to launching new satellites, it is also looking to develop products and services that cater to the needs of a new streaming generation.
This issue brings you all the numbers from the study. Enjoy
