### The Return of Eredivisie to MENA: A New Era for Football Fans
In an exciting development for football enthusiasts in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Dubai Sports Channels has been named the official broadcaster of the Eredivisie. This partnership, secured through IMG, will bring the Netherlands’ top-flight professional football league back to free-to-air television, enriching the viewing experience for millions of fans across MENA through to 2028.
### Expanding Access to Dutch Football
This landmark deal will enable more than 100 million households in the MENA region to enjoy localized coverage of up to five Eredivisie matches each week. Fans can look forward to seeing esteemed Dutch clubs in action, including giants like Ajax, Feyenoord, PSV, and AZ. Additionally, Dubai Sports Channels plans to enhance the viewing experience with weekly preview shows, highlight reels, and digital content, making the best of Dutch football available to a wider audience.
### A Commitment to Talent Development
Jan de Jong, CEO of Eredivisie CV, expressed his enthusiasm for the deal, highlighting the intersection of talent and development. “Dubai has a special eye for talent,” he noted, positioning the Eredivisie as a historic platform well-known for nurturing young footballers. De Jong hopes that MENA audiences will appreciate the “poetry in motion” that characterizes the Eredivisie, allowing fans to witness the emerging stars of tomorrow.
### DMI’s Vision for the Future
Salem Belyouha, CEO of content at Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI), emphasized that this new addition significantly enhances Dubai Sports Channels’ reputation as a primary destination for sports in the region. He aims to provide immersive viewing experiences that introduce Arab audiences to the grandeur of European competitions, showcasing the talent and skill that have made the Eredivisie a revered league worldwide.
### A Strategic Move for Dubai Sports Channels
According to Abdul Rahman Amin, director of Dubai Sports Channels, this agreement marks a pivotal step in delivering comprehensive sports content tailored to the region’s viewers. He remarked on the Eredivisie’s prominent status in global football, noting its dedication to developing young talent which makes it an ideal platform for rising stars. This commitment to showcasing high-caliber football aligns beautifully with Dubai Sports Channels’ aspirations.
### The Rich Legacy of Dutch Football
Robert Klein, Senior Vice President and managing director of football at IMG, pointed out the deep-rooted legacy of Dutch football across the MENA region, a legacy that resonates with fans who have followed the sport for decades. He stressed that this partnership not only ensures greater accessibility to Eredivisie matches but also highlights the growing representation of Arab players in the league. Notable players such as Couhaib Driouech (PSV) and Souffian El Karouani (FC Utrecht) exemplify the league’s burgeoning appeal and relevance to MENA audiences.
### Broadening Eredivisie’s Global Reach
IMG has been instrumental in representing the Eredivisie’s international media rights for over 20 years and has successfully expanded its reach to 142 countries and territories. Last year, the company further solidified its commitment by extending its partnership with the Eredivisie for five more years, aiming to enhance the global visibility and brand recognition of the league. This strategic partnership underscores a pledge to bring the thrilling narratives of Dutch and Arab football to fans worldwide.
### Conclusion: A New Chapter in Football Broadcasting
With this exciting collaboration, football fans in the MENA region can look forward to a rejuvenated connection with the Eredivisie. This move not only enriches the viewer experience but showcases a shared passion for the beautiful game that transcends borders, cultures, and generations.
