Using its newly launched satellite channels at 52.50E, Sawa plans to expand its commercial distribution capabilities across the region.

Dubai-based Sawa Rights Management, a service provider to the MENA broadcast TV industry, has selected NAGRA cloud-based CAS solution to encrypt and secure its premium channels for distribution to commercial properties such as hotels, hospitals, cafés and a wide range of public viewing spaces.

Speaking about the partnership, Ali Ajouz, CEO of Sawa, said: “We are excited to work with NAGRA to secure our channels and expand our footprint for many of our channel partners. Our channels are now encrypted and protected with NAGRA’s cloud-based CAS. Working with NAGRA was an easy decision given its history and expertise in the CAS industry. We are now able to securely expand our territory to cover the full Middle East and North Africa Region.” Sawa’s TV channel distribution business reaches all main IPTV and OTT platforms as well as over 750 commercial properties across the MENA region. In addition, Sawa holds international rights to over 40 TV channels which are currently being licensed to both commercial properties and consumer platforms worldwide.

Thierry Legrand, SVP EMEA, NAGRA, added: “As the first hybrid cardless and card-based deployment in the region, our solutions continue to have an impact in helping service providers across the globe meet their content protection needs. We take great pride in being Sawa’s premium content security provider, and look forward to ensuring the continued integrity and growth of their service for years to come.”