CNN is poised to enhance its presence in the Middle East with the establishment of a new operation in Qatar, aligning with its strategy for global and regional content expansion. This new hub, located in Media City Qatar, is set to commence operations in the latter half of 2025.

The Qatar operation will prioritize the creation of multi-platform content that showcases trending global narratives. A dedicated team of CNN content creators will oversee digital and social media initiatives while also producing a weekly program for CNN International. This strategic move aims to bolster CNN’s capacity to deliver compelling content to a worldwide audience.

This expansion complements CNN’s existing footprint in the region, which includes its primary Middle East headquarters in Abu Dhabi—home to Connect the World with Becky Anderson—alongside its operations in Dubai, which hosts CNN Arabic and various other bureaus throughout the region.

His Excellency Sheikh Dr Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani, Chairman of Media City Qatar, remarked: “As Qatar’s media hub, Media City Qatar is thrilled to welcome CNN into our ecosystem, a space where the world’s most esteemed media brands can collaborate and innovate. This expansion signifies the ongoing growth of Qatar’s strategic role in shaping global dialogues from the heart of the Middle East—because here, where the future is crafted, we are not just witnessing progress; we are driving it.”

In addition to content creation, CNN’s new presence in Qatar will act as a vital resource for covering significant regional and global news, encompassing geopolitics, business, technology, sports, culture, and travel. Furthermore, the network will contribute to local media development by providing journalism and production training to students and young professionals in Qatar.

Mike McCarthy, Executive Vice President & Managing Editor of CNN Worldwide, stated: “CNN is deeply committed to editorial coverage of the Middle East. Whether by enhancing our reporting capabilities from the region, offering state-of-the-art studio facilities, or enabling us to tell a broader range of stories in innovative ways—including a brand new weekly show—this new operation in Qatar both reinforces and expands that commitment.”

Phil Nelson, Executive Vice President, CNN International Commercial, added: “CNN’s brand promise is rooted in being a global source for trusted, timely news and information. This expansion into Qatar will strengthen our regional and global operations, further enhancing our established presence in the Middle East. We eagerly anticipate launching innovative formats and content offerings from this new studio in Media City Qatar in the latter half of 2025.”