From major acquisitions to groundbreaking streaming deals, Kawkabani leaves a legacy of bold innovation and strategic partnerships at the regional media powerhouse
OSN Group has officially announced the resignation of its Chief Executive Officer, Joe Kawkabani, marking the end of a pivotal three-year leadership period defined by bold innovation and transformative strategy.
Since taking the helm, Kawkabani has led the company through a period of significant change and growth, elevating OSN’s position in the competitive MENA media landscape. His tenure has been marked by several landmark deals and strategic shifts that have redefined the group’s digital and content strategy.
One of the most notable milestones under Kawkabani’s leadership was OSN Group’s acquisition of a 55.45% stake in music streaming platform Anghami in 2024. The acquisition merged Anghami with OSN+, the company’s digital streaming arm, creating a dynamic and diversified entertainment ecosystem spanning both video and audio content.
In addition, OSN Streaming—a key subsidiary of the group—secured a strategic minority investment from Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) earlier this year, reinforcing OSN’s commitment to enhancing its content offerings and streaming capabilities. These moves followed the company’s exclusive multi-year content partnership with HBO, signed in 2022, which brought critically acclaimed series and films to OSN’s audience across the region.
Sheikha Dana Naser Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, Chairperson of OSN Group, extended her gratitude to Kawkabani for his leadership. “We thank Joe for his dedicated leadership and valuable contributions. As we move forward, our full commitment remains to offer our subscribers the best and most unique media content experience in the region.”
Reflecting on his departure, Kawkabani shared: “After three incredible years, I have decided to move on to the next challenge. It has been my privilege to lead OSN and to drive its growth and transformation. Through strategic investments and local and international partnerships, we unlocked new growth opportunities for OSN in a challenging but exciting time for the media industry.”
While no successor has yet been named, Kawkabani’s departure sets the stage for the next chapter in OSN’s evolution—one that builds upon a strong foundation of strategic foresight, digital expansion, and regional leadership in premium content delivery.
