MBC 1 (Saudi TV channel)

MBC 1 began broadcasting via satellite from London in September 1991, becoming the first independent Arabic-language satellite television station. Its launch marked a major shift in the Arab media landscape, offering a mix of news and entertainment to a pan-Arab audience. The channel quickly gained popularity, eventually reaching an estimated audience of over 130 million viewers worldwide.

Following its early success, MBC 1 later relocated its operations to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where it continued to expand its programming and regional influence. In 2022, the channel’s parent company, MBC Group, moved its headquarters from Dubai to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the country’s broader media sector development efforts.

By the mid-2000s, MBC 1 had cemented its position as the leading Arabic-language variety channel.^[2]

One of its most popular and controversial programs, Kalam Nawaem ("Speech of the Soft"), became known for tackling sensitive social and political issues such as terrorism, domestic violence, polygamy, divorce, and women's suffrage. Hosted by a panel of female presenters, the show attracted high viewership and commanded premium advertising rates.

In the late 2000s, MBC 1 expanded its entertainment offerings to include international cinema. Following the successful broadcast of the Indian historical film Jodhaa Akbar, the channel secured a deal to air 32 Indian movies.^[3] These films were integrated into a dubbed film package and later shown on both MBC 1 and MBC Drama, making Bollywood content more accessible to Arab audiences.

The high-definition version of the channel, MBC 1 HD, launched on 1 July 2011, further enhancing its visual quality and viewer experience.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, from 24 March to 22 June 2020, the channel temporarily modified its on-screen logo (DOG), placing it inside a house symbol to promote public awareness of stay-at-home measures.

Programs

• Sada Almala'eb
• You Deserve It 2012
• Arab Idol (2011–2017)
• The Wall Game Show (2010/2018)
• Arabs Got Talent
• ET bel Arabia
• Good Morning Arabs
• Kalam Nawaem
• MasterChef Junior
• Nadeena Show
• Project Runway Middle East
• The Voice: Ahla Sawt
• The Voice Kids: Ahla Sawt
• The X Factor Arabia
• Top Chef Middle East and North Africa (2011–2023)

•Total Drama All Stars(from 2017 to 2025) •Family Guy(Since 2007 to 2027)

Events and award shows

• Joy Awards
• Riyadh Season
• Red Sea International Film Festival
• JOY FORUM

Sports

• Bundesliga

• Cinema of Saudi Arabia
• Television in Saudi Arabia