iflix video on demand
offers local programs

To serve the middle class,

the unbanked, rural communities

Malaysia-based iflix, a subscription video-on-demand service focused on emerging markets, has launched local operations from Jal-el Dib, Metn. It will offer local and Arab series, films, soaps, and English-spoken products with Arabic subtitles. Subscriptions start at $4 a month.

Nader Sobhan, Head of MENA region, said: “Lebanon punches way above its weight when it comes to media production. It is important to have a presence here.”

The company has strong partnership with telecommunication companies in the regions in which it operates. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), it has a formed a joint venture with the Kuwaiti Zain Group, which operates the local Touch mobile network.

“We have leveraged our strengths with Touch to give stronger bundles and incentivize users," Sobhan said .

He said that the iflix local operation can be considered a Lebanese one. Content needs to be relevant to the local market and take into consideration “shoddy internet connection, the unbanked, rural populations, and areas away from the main big cities.”

Easy payment facilities have been installed for those who do not have access to plastic cards.

“Payment vouchers can be bought from points of sales at Liban Post, Cash United, Virgin Megastores, and Bank of Beirut Finance,” Samer Fares, Business Development Manager of iflix, said.

In the MENA region, iflix is already available in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Egypt, and Sudan.