Free-to-view platform introduces exclusive programs Productions from art, culture, entertainment, adventure and crime genres, featuring singer Samira Saeed, influencers Mohanad Al-Hattab and Qasim Al-Hatto, among others DUBAI: Asharq Discovery, which launched in 2023 as the result of a strategic partnership between SRMG and Warner Bros. Discovery, has announced seven new original productions. The shows aim to meet the growing demand for free, high-quality Arabic content and appeal to Arabic-speaking audiences around the world. The lineup includes shows across various genres, including art and culture, entertainment, adventure, and crime. “Asharq Discovery is fulfilling its promise to enhance the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region’s infotainment scene through the launch of its high-quality original programming,” said Paul Edwards, the general manager of the platform. “The demand for high-quality Arabic-language content is constantly increasing. Our new lineup of Arabic-language original shows not only entertain, but they also empower regional talent, showcasing authentic and diverse narratives that truly represent the region.” “Dark Minds,” touted as the Arab world’s first true crime docuseries, will spotlight crimes committed by serial killers from the MENA region, while “Bassma” will feature exclusive interviews with powerful Arab women such as singer Samira Saeed, the first Saudi female aerospace engineer Mishaal Ashemimry, and the accomplished lawyer Sofana Dahlan. Popular social media star Qasim Al-Hatto will play the host in “Food Tales,” which takes viewers on a journey through the stories of popular dishes in the MENA region, while actor and media personality Tariq Al-Harbi hosts the competition-based reality show “Test Drive Riyadh,” which takes viewers on a road trip through famous landmarks and uncharted territories. The lineup also includes a daily news show “In Other News,” co-presented by Sultan Al-Shaddadi and Leen Al-Halawani; entertainment show “The Critics,” presented by Passant Shams Ell Dean, Maher Mosly and Mahmoud Mahdy; and “Diet Master,” hosted by influencer Mohanad Al-Hattab, who will examine the most popular diets with input from dieticians and medical experts, as well as those who have attempted the dishes. Edwards said: “The shows … are only the beginning and we look forward to producing more of our own original programs, as well as co-productions with our partners at Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO.”