MTV Arabia, the Middle East's first youth entertainment and lifestyle channel, announced it will mark the Holy Month of Ramadan in "quiet contemplation", and air only cultural news programmes and reality shows; refraining from playing music videos during its 24-hour rotation during the holy month of Ramadan.

The popular channel launched in November 2007 has brought the Arab world cutting-edge international music as well as the best in Arabic pop and hip hop. In only nine months since launch, the channel has successfully featured the best musical talents, personalities and events in the Middle East.

However, MTV Arabia's Ramadan fare will reflect the solemnity of the Holy Month, according to Samr Al Mazouqi, the channel's manager. He said: "The Holy Month is a time for introspection, and we would like to offer our viewers a break from the ordinary fare. Though part of a global brand, MTV Arabia is conscious of regional sensitivities and we are keen to respond to the needs and desires of viewers in the Middle East, the vast majority of whom will be fasting, spending time with family, and focusing on their spiritual lives."

The channel will continue to play the most popular programmes from MTV's international roster of reality shows, celebrity news and pop culture documentaries. As is customary with television channels across the region, MTV Arabia will air the call to prayer during Maghreb.

Local programming to be aired during the Holy Month of Ramadan will include the popular 'Akher Takka,' which puts unwitting victims into hilariously irritating situations, counting down how much time they can last without blowing their tops!

A free to air channel, MTV Arabia broadcasts from Dubai and is available on the Nilesat and Arabsat platforms.