The overseas broadcast launch ceremony for the 2024 "Charming Beijing" TV series was held in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, on Nov. 18. The series is set to air on Abu Dhabi TV in the UAE and Al Arabiya channel in Saudi Arabia, marking the initiative's debut in Dubai and its first in-person event held overseas.
The TV series is a collaboration between the Information Office of the Beijing Municipal Government and China Media Group's CRI Online, aiming at promoting cultural exchanges. This year's initiative coincides with the 40th anniversary of China-UAE diplomatic ties and the 34th anniversary of China-Saudi Arabia relations.
In September, the "Charming Beijing" series invited production teams from Abu Dhabi TV and Al Arabiya to Beijing. With themes on the development and opportunities in the Chinese capital, the teams visited sites such as Beijing's sub-center, the Zhongguancun (Yizhuang) International Robot Industrial Park, the Temple of Heaven, and the Forbidden City. The series captures Beijing's innovative energy, historical charm, and vibrant culture from diverse perspectives.
Zhao Weidong, deputy head of the Publicity Department of the Beijing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China, said that the program will introduce Arab audiences to Beijing's multifaceted charm and cultural heritage.
Since its inception in 2019, the "Charming Beijing" initiative has completed five editions. The first four editions have been aired on major television channels in over 10 countries, reaching a combined audience of over 300 million.