OSN will exclusively present new films and series from Warner Bros and Max Originals

barbie, Dune: part two and other blockbusters will soon be available first on OSN platforms, thanks to a new content deal between the streaming service and Warner Bros Discovery.

Under the terms of the deal, OSN holds exclusive regional rights to all new content from Max Originals and first premiere rights to Warner Bros. Pictures in what has been described as an “exclusive multi-year deal.”

All new films from Warner Bros. Pictures, including Godzilla x Kong: The New Kingdom And Wonka, will premiere exclusively on OSN following their theatrical releases. Other films from the production company’s catalog will also be available online.

Max Originals, the name for exclusive content produced by Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max streaming service – not available in the Mena region – will also make its way to OSN with acclaimed series including the drama Station elevencomedy Our flag means death and the comic book-inspired DC Peacemaker. Other Max Originals reportedly in the works are spin-off series from the hit film. Dune, including Dune: Prophecy, as well as a potential Harry Potter series.

As part of an existing deal with Warner Bros Discovery, OSN also continues to be the exclusive home of broadcaster HBO’s content, meaning acclaimed series such as Game of Thrones, The Sopranos And Succession will remain on the platform, as well as the upcoming second series of Dragon House.

This decision marks a significant change in the streaming landscape in the region, since the Qatari channel BeIN has held these rights since 2016.

OSN Group Managing Director Joe Kawkabani said The National that the agreement lasted approximately six months.

“These types of agreements are very rare because not everyone has access to them for many reasons,” he said. “One of the biggest is that these content deals very rarely move hands and if they do, there are bidding wars.”

Although the program’s prestige was a major factor in the acquisition, Kawkabani said the new deal was part of OSN’s broader content strategy.

“Being able to see blockbuster films is an essential proposition for most people, but where broadcasters and platforms differentiate themselves is by adding other elements that appeal to their audiences,” he added.

“This deal we currently have satisfies our core audience, who want quality content, but at the same time it strengthens our content proposition as it builds on our already existing content, from children’s programs to dramas regional. Not everyone wants to watch the same thing, but they all know where to find the best and latest content.

The move also follows the merger finalized in April between parent company OSN Group and music broadcaster Anghami to create one of the Middle East’s largest streaming platforms. Currently, Anghami and OSN are subscribed separately.

Kawkabani is willing to offer Anghami clients previous seasons or previews of upcoming OSN content to gain new audiences, and he said the newly strengthened company is already reaping the benefits of the partnership behind the scenes.

“It’s a powerhouse with millions of subscribers sitting on it,” he added. “Now that we’re one platform, we know a lot about our subscribers, what they like and don’t like, and we can learn from that. We now know better how to target and select our audience.

Updated: May 28, 2024, 6:36 a.m.