Why Podcasts Are the Next Audio Frontier in MENA – And How Anghami is making it a Priority?

Mary Ghobrial recently joined Anghami as their Chief Operating and Strategy Officer coming from Amazon where she was Director of marketplace expansion. And as the MENA music streaming platform ramps up for their upcoming IPO in November (they will be the first MENA tech startup listed on Nasdaq) growth in all things audio will be key – and that includes podcasts. Ghobrial shares four reasons why Anghami will be placing podcasts front and center.

One-Stop (Audio) Shop

As podcast consumption grows in MENA, Anghami aims to be a hub for all things audio – and that includes podcasts. Anghami’s core legacy is as MENA’s leading music streaming platform – but it doesn’t stop there. Anghami has been a proponent of podcasts early on, with a library of global and regional podcasts. And as podcast consumption grows in MENA, Anghami aims to be a hub for all things audio by putting the customer first, and making it a seamless experience to enjoy content on one platform: music, podcasts, and so much more!

Local Content and Empowering Creators

The thirst and need for quality Arabic content has never been greater – and this is also true in audio. Anghami is a platform for Arabic listeners everywhere, and making sure quality Arabic podcast content is in the pipeline is a priority. The streaming platform has been an advocate and partner of some of the earliest podcast networks and podcasters in the region – and has its own self-service platforms for podcasters. Additionally, Anghami has recently begun producing its own originals – some notable “Original Podcasts” are with the Lebanese pop star Elissa, as well as “Kalam Tareq” with Saudi actor and influencer Tareq Al Harbi, and last but not least ‘White Talk’ podcast with famed TV personality NourAldin where he interviews successful Arab women. More originals tackling a plethora of categories are in the works.

Brands Need a New Voice

Authenticity, originality, storytelling, and empathy are what customers want from brands – and podcasts are now the ideal conduit. Through podcasts, whether fully owned or through insertions, brands can share the values of what they stand for through audio content that will be a consistent part of their customers’ lives. Anghami is looking to build on the success of their Originals Music Studio, and adapt to streamline podcast production for brands. Most recently Anghami created an original song to honor Saudi Olympic champion Tarek Hamdi.

On The Move – Again

As the world gradually adjusts to a pre-Corona lifestyle, people are getting back to normal work/life routines and podcasts are now a key companion. Podcasts ranging from self-improvement, business, comedy, well-being, and everything in between are now part of people’s daily lives. And the opportunity to connect with new audiences who are now always on the move, such as women in Saudi who are now driving and entering the workforce in earnest, is a massive opportunity for podcast creators and brands.