MUMBAI: BBC World News is set to broadcast in high definition on Arabsat throughout the Middle East beginning 5 August.

The agreement allows viewers in the region to access BBC coverage in HD, including international news, documentaries, entertainment and arts programming. Among the shows on the schedule is Global, a daily news program hosted by Jon Sopel. Arabsat will be BBC's first distribution partner in the Middle East to offer the news channel in high definition.

BBC Global News distribution director Colin Lawrence remarked: "We are pleased to be able to partner with Arabsat to launch BBC World News HD across the Middle East, bringing our audience closer to the news than ever before. BBC World News HD will showcase our commitment to impartial and high quality journalism, and will showcase our news programs at their best."

Arabsat president and CEO Khalid Balkheyour added: "We are very proud of the long term partnership with BBC and value their confidence in Arabsat. We are pleased to be the first satellite operator to bring BBC World News HD to its viewers in the region. Known for its professionalism and impartiality, the BBC enjoys a very good reputation and a wide range of viewers and followers in the Middle East."