Dubai and London − STARZ Play, the new OTT video streaming service serving the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has agreed a multi-year licensing agreement with leading U.S. television studio CBS Studios International for exclusive digital rights to bring premium content from SHOWTIME® and CBS to the region.

Exclusive series and full TV box sets will be available to STARZ Play subscribers on demand, including seasons 1 and 2 of SHOWTIME drama series; Penny Dreadful, Ray Donovan and The Affair, along with the three summer event series from CBS; Under The Dome, Extant and Zoo. A number of these titles will premiere on STARZ Play shortly after being broadcast in the U.S.

Maaz Sheikh, President of STARZ Play, said of the deal, “We are delighted to be working with CBS Studios International to bring their premium content to the region with this exclusive deal. This deal meets the rising demand for premium OTT content by the region’s burgeoning young population and recognises the unique opportunity the Middle East market presents. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership.”

“We are excited to partner with STARZ Play to bring our world-class programming to the region on this new and growing digital platform,” said Armando Nuñez, President and CEO, CBS Global Distribution Group. “This deal is another great example of the growing licensing opportunities available for premium content from CBS in a very dynamic digital marketplace.”

Khaled Benchouche, STARZ Play VP of Programming, said, “CBS Studios International was an obvious partner choice for STARZ Play; their gripping edge of your seat series from CBS and SHOWTIME will resonate with our audience who look for quality and originality.”

STARZ Play launched in April this year across 17 countries in MENA. It provides over 3500 hours of movies and TV series anytime, anywhere and on up to five devices for the equivalent of just $12.99 per month with a one month free trial.