UAE’ Coming to Roku Channel

Million Dollar Listing: UAE, the first international version of the hit reality TV show franchise, is coming to The Roku Channel in the U.S., starting on Thursday.

Film and entertainment company Image Nation Abu Dhabi exclusively licensed the format from NBCUniversal Formats, a division of Universal International Studios, which is part of Comcast-owned NBCUniversal’s Universal Studio Group, for the creation of the version set in the United Arab Emirates and produced the series. It will now become available to Roku’s almost 83 million streaming households.

“The bilingual series follows a diverse group of realtors living in the UAE, as well as a cameo from Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles legend Josh Altman and his brother Matt,” according to a show description. “Million Dollar Listing: UAE showcases the fusion of the original franchise’s signature excitement with the distinctive charm and grandeur of the United Arab Emirates.”

The show has several key players. “The cast includes veteran estate agent Ben Bendari, who also serves as an executive producer on the show, newbie Zay Brown, shark Nassira Sekkay, showman Rami Wahood and charismatic Riad Gohar,” the company said.

The series is sponsored by Aldar, a real estate developer headquartered in Abu Dhabi, and Innovate Living, a luxury boutique developer based in Dubai.

“We’re always looking for top-quality entertainment with broad appeal to offer viewers on our platform,” said David Eilenberg, head of content at Roku Media. “The first international version of this successful franchise promises to entertain audiences with an inside look at the glitzy, glamorous luxury real estate market.”

Ben Ross, acting CEO of Image Nation Abu Dhabi, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce U.S. audiences to the first-ever international version of the much-loved franchise Million Dollar Listing. The show offers a unique opportunity for viewers on The Roku Channel to explore the UAE’s luxury real estate market while immersing themselves in the country’s vibrant culture and rich heritage.”

Added Maaz Sheikh, CEO and co-founder of Starzplay: “This series has quickly become one of the most streamed shows on our platform, highlighting its exceptional quality and broad appeal. As we continue to deliver exclusive and premium content, partnerships like this demonstrate our commitment to providing unparalleled entertainment experiences.”

The companies also touted a success stat, saying: “In less than 24 hours, the nine-episode box set secured the top spot in the UAE on the Middle East and North Africa region’s fastest-growing subscription video-on-demand platform.”