Sharjah: The Sharjah Media Corporation (SMC) has announced the official broadcast launch of Al Wousta from Al Dhaid, a new TV channel dedicated to the Central Region of the emirate of Sharjah.

Aimed at complementing the mission of the SMC, the new channel will focus on promoting the heritage, culture and traditions of the Central Region and highlighting its nature and archaeology to viewers all over the world.

The announcement was made today at a press conference held by the SMC in Al Dhaid city, and attended by Shaikh Sultan Bin Ahmad Al Qasimi, chairman of SMC; Dr Khalid Omar Al Midfa, director-general of SMC; Mohammad Khalaf, director of Sharjah Radio and Television, and a number of senior officials from Al Dhaid city and the Central Region of Sharjah as well as media representatives.

Shaikh Sultan said, “The Central Region of Sharjah, like all other regions of the emirate, continues to enjoy the support of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who issued directions to improve the living conditions of citizens and residents, highlight the rich heritage and nature of the area and cover activities that are regularly hosted in the region. This is because these events reflect the national identity and sense of belonging to our beloved nation.”

“Al Wousta is aimed at bridging the past of the emirate with the present and reflecting the richness of this region, which combines desert life with the accelerated urban and economic development. This channel will show the heritage, traditions, nature, archaeology and culture of this special region,” he added.

“The channel will be a reliable means of communicating the concerns and needs of residents in a transparent manner,” according to Shaikh Sultan.

Dr Al Midfa said, “Based in Al Dhaid, Al Wousta will show the traditions and heritage of the Central Region and promote the authentic identity and values of the area, with a particular focus on the concerns and future aspirations of the residents.”

Ashraf Ali, director of Al Wousta channel, said, “The channel is a means for viewers all over the world to identify with the culture and identity of the people in this region. It will also cover activities in the region, highlighting the increase in the number of events that have been growing in scale and significance, over the last few years.”

Al Wousta channel’s team is putting the final touches on a variety of colourful programmes that are aimed at celebrating the festivities of Eid Al Adha. The line-up includes programmes about Eid greetings, Arabic poetry and local cuisine, in addition to a religious programme about Eid Al Adha and Haj.

The channel will transmit a selection of cultural, educational and heritage programmes.