Global content powerhouse Netflix has signed a 5-year deal with a Saudi animation studio to produce Saudi-focused content for the platform, according to reports.
The partnership “brings with it new exclusive seasons of Myrkott’s Masameer series, as well as Masameer movies. All previous seasons of Masameer (along with some exclusive edits) will end up in Netflix’s growing regionally focused library,” Esquire Middle East reports. The deal also includes “an entirely new original adult animation series, although we won’t know anymore about that for a few more months,” it added.
Netflix has increased focus on the Gulf region as a strong opportunity for expansion, and the announcement is the latest in Netflix’s investment in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. As Arab News reports, the video streaming company is also working with Saudi talent such as film directors Hana Al-Omair and Haifaa Al-Mansoor, while introducing new Arabic Originals including “Paranormal,” “Abla Fahita,” “Al-Rawabi School for Girls,” and two as-yet-untitled projects with Tunisian actress Hend Sabry and Egyptian singer Amr Diab.
“Myrkott is at the forefront of creative storytelling and animation in the region. We are continually investing in authentic stories from Saudi Arabia to share their stories across the Arab world and globally,” Nuha El Tayeb, Director, Content Acquisitions, MENAT at Netflix, per Esquire.
“In the Arab world, we’re working with established creators as well as new voices to bring their unique perspectives to life through powerful stories that reflect their culture and experiences – in their own authentic voice. We genuinely believe that great stories can come from anywhere and that they have the power to travel far and wide.”
