CNBC Arabia to launch online shows

CNBC Arabia is set to launch two internet-only shows that it says will bring an 'interactive' element to its television output.

CNBC Arabia is to launch two internet-only shows it says will bring an "interactive" aspect to its offerings.

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The Dubai TV channel, which is associated with the US media giant CNBC, says Web-based shows about personal finance and Islamic finance will be launched next year.

Mohammed Burhan, the general manager and acting chief executive at CNBC Arabia, described the shows as "interactive".

"You will be watching online and sending your questions," he said.

Mr Burhan said TV remained the broadcaster's dominant medium but that the internet was becoming more important.

"People are more attracted by websites and the internet. So we should give them that service," he said.

MBC, the largest broadcaster in the Arab world, recently relaunched its video-on-demand website Shahid.net, which it says is the "biggest online TV library in the region". MBC claimed a 111 per cent increase in monthly visitors in the first five months of this year compared with the same period last year.

The pay-TV network OSN says it is launching a "catch-up" digital service, allowing viewers to watch their favourite shows via computer, tablet and smartphone if they missed those programmes during original broadcast.

CNBC Arabia is also targeting smartphone users.

"Next month we will launch the BlackBerry and iPhone mobile applications," Mr Burhan said.