OSN adds Nick nets

Viacom International Media Networks is expanding its offering in the MENA region with the launch of Nickelodeon HD, Nick Jr. and MTV Live HD on OSN’s pay TV platform.

The two kids channels and one music channel will launch on January 5 and will join VH1, which VIMN already offers in the Middle East and North Africa.

From February, both SpongeBob SquarePants (pictured) Nickelodeon HD and Nick Jr. will also be available in dual language feeds – in English and Arabic.

VIMN said that its Dubai Media City team will take over the production of Nickelodeon HD, making it the only international kids TV channel available in Arabic, produced in the MENA region, exclusively for OSN.

“This partnership with OSN provides an ideal opportunity for VIMN to deliver a wide range of entertainment content to the MENA region,” said Raffaele Annecchino, executive VP and managing director South Europe, Middle East and Africa, VIMN.

“Our kids and family channels, Nickelodeon HD and Nick Jr., along with our music-oriented channels MTV Live HD and VH1, create a perfect balance and provide programming that appeal to audiences ranging from preschoolers to the adult demographic.”

OSN’s CEO, David Butorac, added: “The launch of Nickelodeon HD and Nick Jr., both in Arabic, and the rebranded MTV Live HD strengthens OSN’s engagement with two of the key demographics – children and youth.”