Sharjah24: "Maraya", the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority's video on demand application, has successfully attracted over 4.5 million viewers in just the first ten days of Ramadan. Half a million viewers watched on the application and 4 million viewers watched on social media platforms, particularly the platform's TikTok account, which alone attracted 2 million viewers in the first week of the holy month.
Statistics show that 80% of the followers during the same period come from outside the UAE, particularly from the Gulf and Arab regions, with Oman leading the statistics followed by Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Lebanon, Bahrain, Iraq, and Syria. Live streaming also recorded good numbers in Europe, particularly in Germany, France, Spain, and Italy.
The Maraya application has benefited from a complete update using the latest OTT technologies used by famous global platforms, in addition to the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies and the latest broadcasting technology to make browsing a real pleasure for enthusiasts.
The application's administrators also focused on visual identity, which saw modifications in honour of the month of Ramadan, with an attractive purple colour dominating and a smart tab that allows for easy navigation between the various channels of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority and enjoyable browsing of the displayed series and videos.
The platform has not just become a means to watch television channels owned by the authority, but it has also been enriched with a vast selection of series that have gained a large following during this year's Ramadan, such as "Manzil 12" and "Zigag El-Jinn", which were the most popular shows on Maraya, in addition to other series like "Al-Nukran Minna" and "Feena Al-Boushia". The platform also includes a large collection of Arabic and Gulf series, as well as historical dramas, and sets itself apart from other platforms by offering Pakistani dramas, with plans to expand its offerings to include Russian, Chinese, and Kazakhstani shows, which promises to broaden its audience even more.
Moreover, the platform allows users to follow a wide range of programs from the authority's channels, such as "Al-Majalis", "Al-Nishan", "Maktabatuna", "Islamuna Hadara", "Fatwas", "Najm Al-Majalis", "Al-Akram", "Doctor from My Country", and "Dar News", where viewers can find all the episodes they missed during the live broadcast and watch any episode at any time they want.
In addition to the Sharjah Radio and Television Authority's satellite and radio broadcasts, Maraya also provides access to our old archive section, which serves as a massive archive of numerous works produced and aired since the establishment of Sharjah Television on February 11, 1989, adding quality content that viewers can easily access.
The platform of the "Golden Age Library" also includes notable works of drama, television, and theater that made an impact upon their release. For instance, the Emirati drama "Last Days of Life," which was aired on Sharjah TV during Ramadan 2002, garnered a lot of attention. Other works, such as "Sowalif," "Bin Sahatoot," "Tanaqodat," "Al Kafan," and many more are also featured in our vintage section.
The old archive also contains numerous theatrical productions that were a strong addition to their time, such as "Al Qadia," written by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Another notable production is "Return of Hulaku," written by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and starring Saif Ghannam and Ahmed Al Jasmi, along with a large group of theater actors.
Sports enthusiasts can also relive the golden era of Gulf football by following the Gulf Cup tournaments. And for the children, there are numerous works to keep them entertained and educated, such as "Al Manahil," "Play and Explore," "Friends of the Police," and "From the Gardens," along with other productions that appeal to adults and take them back to a beautiful time in their lives.
The platform also includes the "Sultan Channel," which features His Highness' contributions to the "Live Line" program, his interventions in various cultural and sports events, and his influential dialogues that he shared with Sharjah TV. The platform also features "Flashes," which includes a large collection of videos that are powerful and impactful messages from His Highness to his sons and daughters (citizens) about selected topics.
During the month of Ramadan, Maraya provides the opportunity for viewers to participate in weekly competitions related to the dramas featured on the platform, with valuable prizes awarded to the winners. In addition, Maraya opens the door for the public to participate in various competitions for programs such as Nishan, Maktabat, and Najm Al Majalis, all of which offer followers the chance to win thousands of dirhams daily.
Hind Al-Saedi, the director of Maraya, asserts that the platform's significant development in terms of content, appearance, and technology has made it one of the leading digital platforms in the country and the region. In a short time since its inception, Maraya has successfully attracted large audiences who have found in it a comprehensive and diverse entertainment and educational experience.
Al-Saedi also emphasizes that the team's efforts to continuously develop and improve the platform are tireless, day and night, to meet the needs of the local, Gulf, and Arab audiences. She notes that reaching this level was not easy, given the fierce competition in this field, but the support of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority has helped overcome all obstacles.
Maraya can be accessed through the website https://maraya.sba.net.ae or by downloading the free app on smartphones running on iOS and Android systems or on smart TV platforms such as Apple TV, Android TV, and Samsung.
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