In recognition of his pioneering role and leadership within the media industry in the Arab world, MBC Group Chairman, Waleed bin Ibrahim al Ibrahim was named 'Media Man of the Year' at the 4th MENA Cristal Awards held in Lebanon.

The annual event was attended by top business decision-makers and senior executives in the media, advertising and related communications industries.

This award complements Al Ibrahim's growing list of achievements and prestigious awards, including being recently awarded the 'Knight' from the Arab League and 'Innovator of the Year' from Arabian Business.

Commenting on the award, Al Ibrahim highlighted the importance of recognizing innovation within the media industry as an incentive to continuously excel and overcome the many challenges that we all face. The award will equally encourage MBC Group to raise the bar in the vibrant Arab media industry, with the aim to further develop knowledge economies and content industries.

Al Ibrahim said: 'Our journey together started in 1991 when we launched mbc1 as the first private pan-Arab satellite TV channel, and today we stand as the largest private media group in the Arab world. It is has been an exciting journey that has succeeded in earning the loyalty of viewers, the trust of advertisers and the creativity of our talented employees. MBC Group has become a source of inspiration, a true benchmark in terms of family entertainment, and a melting pot of Arab cultures that respect the norms and traditions of our society.'

Al Ibrahim concluded: 'Today we offer our viewers an unrivalled choice of platforms from which they can enjoy their favourite programs on mbc channels - whether on screen, on radio, on the internet, on the mobile or even by reading our new weekly magazine, 'Haya mbc', which goes hand-in-hand with the remote control and contributes to the pre-planning of viewing habits during the course of the week. As far as advertisers are concerned, they continue to benefit from the highest value and return on advertising investments - thus renewing their confidence in the efficacy of our platforms and our ability to reach and interact with millions of viewers every day of the year.'