Monte Carlo Doualiya launches in UAE

Monte Carlo Doualiya, the popular French radio station that broadcasts in Arabic, has launched in the United Arab Emirates on 95.3 FM.

The expansion of the radio station, which is owned by Audiovisuel Exterieur de la France (AEF), highlights the increasing importance the company is placing on the Arabic speaking world.

Audiovisuel Exterieur de la France chairman, Alain de Pouzilhac, said: “Arabic language is a priority [for us] because if we want to share dreams and ambitions and if we want a voice to avoid confrontation — we have to know each other better. It is crucial.”

Previously, only a small amount of news and flashes could be heard on Fujairah FM, but now all Monte Carlo Doualiya news and programmes are available on 95.3 FM.

“At Monte Carlo Doualiya we want to strengthen the proximity and co-operation between our two countries. Research demonstrates that radio and television from France is viewed as useful or very useful by more than 80% of the Arab population,” de Pouzilhac added.

The radio station will air a variety of programmes including debates, politics, economics, and social and health advice.

Director of Arabic programming for Monte Carlo Doualiya and sister company France 24, Nahida Nakad, said: “We can present news without being boring. News is supposed to be the mirror of life which means we talk about everything that makes a life.”