The launch ushers in a completely new style of news programming for the Middle East and beyond and fills a critical void in Arab-language news programming by delivering to millions of viewers with an objective, fresh and unbiased view of world events, a statement said.

Commenting on the launch, Fahad Sukait, chairman of the board and chief executive officer of the channel, said: "We are proud of the strong start we've made and thank HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for his unstinting support. Our goal is to provide viewers with a new and different style, delivering impartial and accurate news based on deep analysis."

He added: "I would like to thank all our staff for their hard work which has contributed to today's successful launch."

Jamal Khashoggi, general manager, said: "We felt there was a real need for an independent and impartial channel. We are proud that our programs will go beyond the 'normal' to provide viewers with the stories that matter to them."

Alarab will deliver the news objectively and accurately, providing news bulletins at the top of each hour through its extensive network of correspondents and bureaux around the world, in addition to a group of analysts and subject matter experts. The region's leading business news will be delivered through a cooperation agreement with Bloomberg which will provide world-class information to the region's business community, the statement added.

Apart from the news, Alarab will broadcast a range of programmes including a focus on Saudi Arabian affairs. Every weekday from Sunday to Thursday, the KSA bulletin - presented by Nour AlShaikh and Mefreh Al Shaqiqi - will feature news from the kingdom. Ghanem Al Mareekhi will host "Min Al Riyadh", a daily talk show covering a range of topics that matter to Saudis, from politics to social affairs, and which will open a dialog between the Saudi people and the authorities.

"AlMashhad Al layla" with Laila Al Skaikly will be on air every Thursday and goes beyond the story, giving answers and new angles to daily events. Taria Alaas will host a one-hour weekly program entitled "Majalis Al Arab" which looks at the decision-making processes in Arab parliaments and the role they play in modern Arab political life. - TradeArabia News Service