JioHotstar, the streaming platform with over 500 million monthly active users, is now available through Starzplay in the Middle East and North Africa. The partnership, announced on Tuesday, allows JioHotstar to offer Indian films, TV shows, and originals through Starzplay's app, tapping into the region's large South Asian diaspora. Prices for the bundled service are around $13.60 per month.

The move is part of Reliance’s strategy to build JioHotstar into a global streaming giant, following its successful launches in the U.K., Canada, and Singapore. New JioHotstar originals will premiere in the region simultaneously with their Indian releases, available in up to 10 languages. The platform is particularly emphasizing Malayalam programming due to the significant Malayali population in the region.

The partnership with Starzplay, which already has over 2.3 million subscribers, strengthens JioHotstar's position in the region. Starzplay, a major player in the MENA streaming market, expanded its distribution deal with eVision, e&'s media and entertainment arm, in 2024, making it the regional home of Hotstar Specials.

Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed, but Starzplay CEO Maaz Sheikh described the move as a strategic investment. This collaboration highlights the increasing competition in the streaming market and the importance of targeting diaspora communities for expansion.