Media personality Dawood Al-Sharyan has raised concerns regarding the concentration of large-scale media projects within a little circle of dominant institutions. This critique follows the awarding of the Cultural Channel’s operations to the Saudi Research and Media Group.
The Shift in the Cultural Channel’s Operation
In a video shared via his X account, Al-Sharyan addressed the transition of the Cultural Channel to the Saudi Research and Media Group, the entity responsible for Asharq Al-Awsat and the owner of the Thamanya platform.
He noted that the channel was previously managed by MBC, suggesting that the change occurred due to the fact that the previous management did not produce the desired results despite the investment made in the channel.
Critique of the “Three-Company” Cycle
Al-Sharyan criticized what he perceives as a limited rotation of major projects between only three primary entities: MBC, Asharq Al-Awsat and Rotana.
He argued that We see unreasonable to limit these opportunities to just three players, suggesting that if one fails or is replaced, the project simply moves to another within the same small group.
The Path to Media Sector Growth
While acknowledging that the government has opened doors through the Vision, Al-Sharyan asserted that smaller media firms cannot truly grow unless they are entrusted with large-scale projects funded by the state.
He proposed a redistribution of tasks, suggesting that the state could award partial management of channels to more companies to support these emerging businesses expand.
Potential Future Developments
If the state adopts a more distributed model of awarding projects, it could lead to a more diverse and competitive media market in Saudi Arabia.
A possible next step could involve the fragmentation of large contracts, which may allow a wider array of Saudi-owned firms to gain the necessary experience and scale to compete with established giants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which company has been awarded the operation of the Cultural Channel?
The operation of the Cultural Channel was awarded to the Saudi Research and Media Group, which owns the Thamanya platform and produces Asharq Al-Awsat.
Which three companies did Dawood Al-Sharyan identify as the primary recipients of major projects?
Al-Sharyan identified MBC, Asharq Al-Awsat, and Rotana as the three companies that frequently rotate the awarding of large media projects.
What does Al-Sharyan suggest is necessary for smaller Saudi media companies to grow?
He believes these companies will only grow if the state assigns them large-scale projects that are funded by the government, rather than limiting such opportunities to a few large firms.
Do you believe distributing large-scale media projects among more companies would improve the quality of national content?
