Netflix partners with Saudi toon studio

Myrkott co-founders Malik Nejer (left) and Abdulaziz al-Muzaini

Netflix has agreed an exclusive five-year partnership with Saudi Arabian animation studio Myrkott, covering new series and movies as well as existing comedy Masameer.

The agreement will bring all seasons of Masameer to the streaming service, as well as future seasons and movies based on the IP.

In addition, Netflix will license an original adult animated series and an original movie from Myrkott as part of the deal, which also includes a first-look option at Myrkott’s projects.

Nuha El Tayeb, director of content acquisitions for MENA and Turkey at Netflix, said: “Myrkott is at the forefront of creative storytelling and animation in the region. We are continually investing in authentic stories from Saudi Arabia to share their stories across the Arab world and globally. We want to give our members access to great stories that can travel far and wide.”

Myrkott CEO and co-founder Abdulaziz al-Muzaini added: “We at Myrkott think about this partnership beyond the production aspects. By working with Netflix, we inspire Saudi and Arab talents to dream big and support an ecosystem that recognises equal opportunity, talent and creativity. These are the values that have fuelled Myrkott in its pursuit of excellence throughout the years.”

The deal comes after Netflix announced earlier this year that it would premiere Saudi Arabian drama series Whispers around the world.