CNN is expanding its footprint in the Middle East through a new operation in the State of Qatar.
The Qatar operation will complement CNN’s existing Middle East programming and newsgathering hubs: the flagship regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, home to Connect the World with Becky Anderson; Dubai, the base for CNN Arabic; and CNN’s bureaus across the region.
The new CNN operation based in Media City Qatar will go live in the second half of 2025.
Last month, CNN CEO Mark Thompson said CNN will pivot is newsroom into a digital first operation and the Qatar operation will follow this. A team of CNN content creators will be publishing on digital and social platforms and producing an innovative weekly show for CNN International.
“CNN has a deep commitment to editorial coverage of the Middle East,” said Mike McCarthy, Executive Vice President & Managing Editor of CNN Worldwide. “Whether by adding to our ability to report from the region, providing new, cutting-edge studio facilities, or allowing us to tell a wider range of stories from here in new ways, including via a brand-new weekly show, this new operation in Qatar both underscores and expands that commitment.”
“As Qatar’s media hub, Media City Qatar is excited to welcome CNN to our ecosystem, a place where the world’s most respected media brands can come together, collaborate, and innovate,” added His Excellency Sheikh Dr Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani, Chairman of Media City Qatar. “This expansion signals the continued growth of Qatar’s strategic role in shaping global conversations from the heart of the Middle East – because here, where next is made, we are not only witnessing progress; we are making it happen.”
The expansion provides CNN with additional resource in the Gulf and Middle East at a time when the region is central to the global news agenda. CNN will also provide training in journalism and production to students and young professionals in Qatar.
