BBC Studios and CosmoBlue Media have formed an exclusive strategic partnership to bolster their footprint in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and Türkiye, marking a significant step forward in their expansion plans.
This collaboration will launch a new general entertainment channel designed specifically for audiences in these regions. Additionally, BBC Studios’ on-demand service, BBC Player, will be integrated into CosmoBlue Media’s streaming platform, CosmoGO. The agreement also encompasses co-distribution efforts for BBC Studios’ existing channels, ensuring that the content aligns with regional preferences while preserving its global allure.
Berk Uziyel, Co-Founder and Group CEO of CosmoBlue Media, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with BBC Studios to bring their remarkable brands and content to the MENAT region. This strategic partnership reflects our shared commitment to high-quality storytelling, cultural relevance, and innovative platforms.”
Arran Tindall, President EMEA for Global Channels & Streaming, remarked, “This agreement reinforces our dedication to pursuing innovative partnerships across EMEA that leverage the strengths of our brands, premium content, and a diverse portfolio of linear and on-demand products. It represents a crucial step in expanding our operations in Türkiye and MENA, enabling our compelling content to engage new audiences everywhere, across all platforms.”
Bartosz Witak, SVP and General Manager for CEE & MENAT at BBC Studios, emphasised that the success of BBC Studios is closely tied to that of its partners. “This new partnership exemplifies our mutual dedication to excellence and innovation. We are confident that it will enhance the presence of our entertainment brands in the market. Through collaborative initiatives, we aim to broaden our activities and deepen audience interaction with our channels, all aligned with our ongoing mission to inform, educate, and entertain – now with even greater impact.”
As part of this initiative, the BBC Player, an acclaimed on-demand multi-genre service offered by BBC Studios that features award-winning dramas, documentaries, and factual content, will be seamlessly integrated into CosmoBlue Media’s flagship streaming service, CosmoGO. This integration, set to launch in Türkiye and the MENA region, will provide audiences with access to high-quality British content on demand, anytime and anywhere.
Uziyel added, “The integration of BBC Player into CosmoGO presents an exciting opportunity to connect with new digital audiences in Türkiye and MENA. Together, we are enhancing the digital landscape with curated experiences that elevate viewers’ journeys.”
The agreement also grants CosmoBlue Media exclusive rights to distribute several of BBC Studios’ flagship linear channels, including BBC First, known for its premium British dramas; BBC Earth, which highlights natural history and scientific storytelling; and CBeebies, a leading destination for preschool educational entertainment.
Beyond Türkiye, this partnership extends across the broader MENA region, with CosmoBlue Media poised to facilitate the distribution of these channels across numerous territories. This expansion will significantly enhance access to BBC Studios’ content through both traditional television and digital platforms.
This alliance underscores the commitment of both companies to delivering high-quality content, driving regional growth, and fostering innovation. Additionally, it strengthens CosmoBlue Media’s objective to provide diverse, cross-cultural programming while supporting BBC Studios’ strategy to expand into dynamic, rapidly growing international markets.
