News

OSN-Anghami Merger Creates New MENA Media Giant

The combined entity will leverage Anghami’s advanced infrastructure to enhance the streaming experience, with OSN integrating 18,000 hours of premium content.

Published

10 months ago

April 5, 2024

Nour Nasir

Anghami

In a significant development, OSN has secured a controlling stake in Anghami, consolidating its position as the Middle East’s premier online media and streaming service provider. Initially announced in November 2023, the acquisition has now received all necessary regulatory approvals.

Anghami stands out as the leading music technology platform in the Middle East and North Africa, boasting a strong market presence and rapid growth. With OSN Group now owning 55.45% of Anghami’s shares (valued at $3.69 each, representing a 1.9x of the closing price on March 28), the combined entity emerges as a formidable media force.

This strategic move unites 120 million registered users and around 2.5 million paid subscribers, and will generate nearly $100 million in revenue upon completion. The merger integrates OSN+’s extensive library of premium video content, spanning 18,000 hours, with Anghami’s vast catalog of over 100 million songs and podcasts.

Moreover, the combined entity will leverage Anghami’s advanced technological infrastructure to enhance the streaming experience through AI-driven hyper-personalization and upcoming cutting-edge products.

Also Read: Talabat And Truecaller Enter Strategic Partnership

Elie Habib, co-founder and CTO of Anghami will assume the role of CEO in the merged company, underscoring a commitment to continuity and expertise. Meanwhile, Joe Kawkabani will remain at the helm as CEO of OSN Group.

Anghami’s journey has been marked by several transformative deals, including a SPAC buyout culminating in a listing on Nasdaq New York, reflecting its evolution and resilience in the market.

The Middle East’s media landscape continues to witness dynamic shifts, evident in notable events such as the high-profile IPO of Saudi MBC Group on Tadawul and the acquisition of Starzplay Arabia by e& Group’s E-Vision and ADQ. The developments highlight the region’s growing dominance of the global media industry.

News

“AI Seal” Certification Now Required For Dubai Gov Partnerships

The new mandatory certification is designed to build trust in AI companies and create a reliable network of providers for government and public collaboration.

Published

16 hours ago

January 21, 2025

Nour Nasir

ai seal certification now required for dubai gov partnerships

Dubai Media Office

Dubai has introduced the Dubai AI Seal, a certification designed to establish trust in artificial intelligence (AI) companies and solutions. This initiative, directed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, aims to create a reliable network of AI providers which government entities and businesses can collaborate confidently.

Companies must now obtain the AI Seal to qualify for UAE or Dubai government contracts. The Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), which developed the certification, sees it as a competitive edge for companies looking to participate in key national projects. Once certified, businesses will be permitted to showcase the seal across their websites and marketing materials, signaling their credibility and dependability.

The evaluation process will consider six main criteria: the company’s services and operations, the number of employees specializing in AI, ongoing and future projects, as well as existing partnerships with public and private sector entities.

dubai ai seal certification

Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, which oversees the DCAI, commented on the initiative’s potential: “This initiative will help create powerful partnerships between the public and private sectors, locally, regionally, and globally. It will help drive new economic opportunities by leveraging AI to serve better the economy, society, and the future we aspire to”.

Also Read: Top Free AI Chatbots Available In The Middle East

The Dubai AI Seal’s goals include providing a clear framework for verifying AI providers, fostering business opportunities for AI companies, and acknowledging the industry’s strategic importance to Dubai’s economy. The initiative emphasizes AI’s role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening collaboration between government bodies and technology firms.

All technology companies operating in Dubai and offering AI-related services or products are eligible to apply for the certification at no cost through the official website.