CNN is set to commence its new operation in Media City Qatar, expanding its Middle East footprint as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its global and regional content creation capabilities.
The new operation in Media City Qatar, a premier hub for global media and technology companies that fosters innovation and collaboration in Qatar’s thriving media sector, will go live in the second half of 2025.
It will focus on the development of multi-platform content about trending stories driving the global zeitgeist. A team of CNN content creators will be publishing on digital and social platforms while producing an innovative weekly show for CNN International.
CNN’s Qatar presence will complement its existing Middle East programming and newsgathering hubs: the flagship regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, home to Connect the World with Becky Anderson; Dubai, the base for CNN Arabic; and CNN’s bureaus across the region.
H.E Sheikh Dr. Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani Chairman – Media City Qatar
“As Qatar’s media hub, Media City Qatar is excited to welcome CNN to our ecosystem, a place where the world’s most respected media brands can come together, collaborate, and innovate. This expansion signals the continued growth of Qatar’s strategic role in shaping global conversations from the heart of the Middle East – because here, where next is made, we are not only witnessing progress; we are making it happen.”
This expansion will also provide CNN with additional resource in the Gulf and Middle East at a time when the region is central to the global news agenda – from coverage of geo-politics and breaking news through to stories on business, technology, sport, culture and travel. CNN will also equip Qatar students and young professional with skills in journalism and production through training initiative.
“CNN has a deep commitment to editorial coverage of the Middle East. Whether by adding to our ability to report from the region, providing new, cutting-edge studio facilities, or allowing us to tell a wider range of stories from here in new ways, including via a brand new weekly show, this new operation in Qatar both underscores and expands that commitment,” added Mike McCarthy, Executive Vice President & Managing Editor of CNN Worldwide.
Phil Nelson, Executive Vice President, CNN International Commercial, stated that, “CNN’s brand promise is built on being a global source for trusted, timely news and information. This expansion into Qatar will bolster our regional and global operations, adding to our long-standing footprint in the Middle East. We look forward to launching innovative formats and content propositions from this new studio in Media City Qatar in the second half of 2025.”
