Netflix Teams With Middle East Pay TV Giant OSN

OSN subscribers will have access to Netflix's library under the new agreement.

Netflix has inked its first partnership deal in the Middle East as it attempts to gain a foothold in the region, signing an agreement with Dubai-based pay TV giant OSN.

The deal will see Netflix content offered to OSN's subscribers across the Middle East and North Africa, with customers able to access the streaming giant's library via a set-top box launching later this year and also pay for their Netflix subscription in one consolidated bill.

Netflix has previously struck deals with such U.S. cable giants as Comcast and Charter Communications, as well as European pay TV powerhouse Liberty Global, to integrate its service into their set-top boxes. Pay TV companies have called that approach a win-win.

"The future of the entertainment industry in the MENA region will be shaped by providers who offer value and choice at every turn, and through this groundbreaking partnership with Netflix, we are demonstrating our customer-centric focus on delivering convenience and flexibility for all," said OSN CEO Martin Stewart in a statement.

Added Maria Ferreras, vp business development for EMEA at Netflix: "With this regional partnership and thanks to hundreds of Netflix's original titles slated for 2018, OSN's customers will be able to seamlessly access and enjoy all the best entertainment in one place."