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49 channels
Saudi television is shaped by religion, family, and a satellite boom that rewired the region. The state broadcaster, Saudi TV, runs multiple channels, news, religion, general entertainment, but the real engine is the commercial sector, led by MBC Group. MBC’s mix of Arabic drama, reality shows, and news (Al Arabiya) mirrors Gulf tastes, while Rotana dominates music TV, pumping out Arabic pop and music videos around the clock. Religious programming is a distinct pillar: 24/7 Quran channels, live mosque broadcasts, and Islamic lecture series are household staples, especially during Ramadan when primetime shifts dramatically, families gather after iftar for long-running soap operas (musalsalat) and religious specials. Sports culture is intense. Saudi football (the Roshn Saudi League) draws huge live audiences, and state-owned SSC (Saudi Sports Company) holds key rights. The country is also a major wrestling and boxing destination. Children’s TV is overwhelmingly dubbed into Arabic, cartoons from Disney and Nickelodeon are fully localized, as are most imported dramas. News bulletins on state channels are formal and government-aligned, while satellite news channels offer slightly more edge, though still within red lines. Primetime starts late, often after 21:00, and families watch together in shared living spaces. Unlike neighboring UAE or Qatar, Saudi TV leans conservative, no alcohol ads, modest dress codes on screen, and minimal Western-style reality excess. But the arrival of IPTV and streaming (Shahid, Netflix) is fragmenting audiences, especially among younger Saudis. Still, live television remains central for news, prayer times, and major events like the Hajj broadcast, which reaches millions globally.