When did Al Arabiya launch and where was it based initially?
Al Arabiya launched on the 3rd of March 2003 from Dubai Media City. The channel operated as a Saudi-backed alternative to Al Jazeera during its early years.
Questions about Al Arabiya
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who owns Al Arabiya and what is the current stake distribution?
The Public Investment Fund acquired a 54% stake in MBC Group in 2025 while Waleed bin Ibrahim al Ibrahim retained a 36% stake. Initial funding came from the Middle East Broadcasting Center alongside investors from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and other Gulf states.
Where is the headquarters of Al Arabiya located now?
Al Arabiya completed its move from Dubai to Riyadh in July 2025. The new headquarters in Riyadh became the central hub for all broadcasting operations following orders by the Saudi government.
What are the main programs aired by Al Arabiya and when do they air?
Special Mission premiered on the 19th of October 2003 as the channel's longest-running investigative program. Eda'at airs every Thursday at 2:00 PM Saudi Arabia time while Rawafed broadcasts once a week on Wednesdays at 5:30 PM focusing on arts and culture documentaries.
When did Al Arabiya become the first satellite channel to report on Rafik Hariri's assassination?
On the 14th of February 2005, Al Arabiya became the first satellite channel to air news about Rafik Hariri's assassination. This event marked a significant moment in the network's history regarding political reporting.