Promoters and the management team of Dubai-based 'The Real Estate Channel' Sunday announced its imminent launch - making it the world's first satellite television channel dedicated to the real estate industry. Scheduled to commence airing in September, The Real Estate Channel will serve as a unique source of edutainment and information for consumers, industry specialists and investors alike.
Addressing a press conference to signal the laying of the channel's foundation, Sheikh Butti bin Suhail Al Maktoum, Chairman of The Real Estate Channel, said that the launch was a mere progression of the success of Dubai's and the region's real estate industry in recent times.
"When we developed the idea of launching this channel, it was not a new decision as much as it was a natural progression of thought and action. With the astounding growth and progress of real estate that we have witnessed in the region, the launch of a medium to communicate this growth was simply, and only, the right way forward," he stated.
He also explained why the channel will broadcast out of Dubai: "Today, Dubai is undoubtedly the real estate capital of the world, with all eyes on our achievements. It is also the venue of some of the world's most coveted and cherished real estate projects and properties. The Real Estate Channel is not just another 'first' for the world from the heart of Dubai, it is a gift – as we develop it to address several audiences at the same time," he added.
Mekki Abdulla, Broadcast Marketing Specialist and advisor to the channel, explained that the programming would be a multiple forum that will address property developers, constructors, engineers, architects, mortgage companies, corporate and private investors, the retail sector, and individual home owners alike.
"Both, the launch of the channel and its programming contents will reflect the innovation and originality that Dubai is famous for. Viewers can expect programmes on almost anything pertaining to the industry – from close up details of their favourite properties to information on landscaping their gardens – all in their preferred language (English and Arabic). The programming will also address important issues like current laws and legislation, organising mortgages, constructing new homes from scratch and investing in properties – in the local, regional and international markets," Abdulla said. He added that several specialists from related industries would be invited to host and participate in advisory panels, talk shows, and other forums on a regular basis.
Dr. Ibrahim Halawi, one of the region's leading authorities on real estate added that the timing could not be more appropriate for the launch of The Real Estate Channel: "Dubai and Qatar are currently experiencing increased attention and interest in their freehold properties, and as the industry continues to grow, this channel will address not only residents of the region, but international audiences from every part of the globe. "It is said that Dubai houses more monuments that can be seen from the moon, than any other place on Earth. It has been a very inspiring thought for all of us at The Real Estate Channel," he summarised.
In its initial phase, The Real Estate Channel will be a free-to-air satellite service offering a diverse viewing bouquet to audiences in the Arabian Gulf, Middle East, North Africa and South Europe. The programming content will include bilingual news bulletins, industry updates, financial consultation, legal advice, apartment and villa showcases, home décor, garden planning features, and various advisory panels.
The Real Estate Channel is based in the Dubai Media City free zone, with prominent UAE business men as its key motivators. The Board of Directors include Ali Alamri, Mohammed Saleh and Abdulla Atatreh. Ghassan Alasad will be the Managing Director of the channel, headed by Chairman, Sheikh Butti bin Suhail Al Maktoum. The channel will be free-to-air on satellite television and can be accessed on Nile Sat (frequency 11785 Mhz). (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
