Special Regulations affecting Sports Broadcasting in Qatar

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Overview

Special regulations affecting sports broadcasting in Qatar reflect the country's broader legal and cultural framework, with unique considerations due to Qatar's prominent role in international sports and media. This Practice Note will discuss key regulations affecting sports broadcasting in Qatar

Definitions

  • DRM: Digital rights management.

  • beIN Sports: beIN Sports Network which is a Qatari multinational network of sports channels owned and operated by the Qatari media group beIN.

  • MENA: Middle East and North Africa.

  • QMC: Qatar Media Corporation.

Practical Guidance

Exclusive broadcasting rights and licensing

Qatar Media Corporation (QMC)

As the state broadcaster, QMC plays a central role in media regulations, particularly with regard to licensing and exclusive broadcasting rights. The state often secures exclusive broadcasting rights for major sports events, such as the FIFA World Cup, through platforms like beIN Sports, which is headquartered in Doha.

beIN Sports Network

beIN Sports, one of the largest sports broadcasters in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, has exclusive rights for many international sporting events. Exclusive contracts give beIN Sports the authority to determine broadcasting access, often limiting viewers to subscription-based services to access premium sports events.

Anti-piracy efforts