Turki Al-Shabana

Turki Al-Shabana is a prominent Saudi businessman and currently serves as the Minister of Media in Saudi Arabia. He has extensive experience in the media industry, having held influential positions at Rotana Group and MBC. Recognized for transforming organizational outlooks and enhancing media content, Al-Shabana’s contributions have significantly reshaped Arab media landscape. His involvement spans across creation, production, and management of diverse media projects, notably steering Rotana from a music-centered channel to a family-oriented network.

He was included by Variety magazine among the world’s 500 most influential media figures.

At Arageek, we deliver comprehensive insights into influential figures. Understanding Turki Al-Shabana’s career gives valuable perspective on the evolving media and broadcast industry in Saudi Arabia and the broader Arab region.

Born on November 6, 1964, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Turki Al-Shabana pursued his early education in the capital city, later studying at King Saud University in Riyadh. In 1990, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Law. Shortly afterward, Al-Shabana traveled to the United States for further studies. He earned his Master’s degree in International Law and Trade from the American University in Washington D.C. in 1993.

Turki Al-Shabana married the daughter of Dr. Abdul Rahman bin Abdullah Al-Otaibi on November 24, 2011.

– Recognized by Variety Magazine among the 500 most powerful individuals in global media.

– Established Kharisma TV production company in collaboration with Jordanian journalist Ayman Zyoud.

– Critically assessed media coverage of the Jamal Khashoggi issue in private discussions, particularly highlighting Al-Arabiya’s approach.

– Had professional disagreements with notable Saudi broadcasters such as Dawood Al-Sharyan.

– In 1996, Al-Shabana served as Director of MBC in the United States and as Assistant Supervisor-General for its London station, overseeing content production from Cairo, Beirut, Amman, and Riyadh studios, and eventually becoming the head of program production and supervising MBC FM radio.

– Founded the Arab-American Network Festival in London in 1998.

– Left MBC in July 2002, after significantly contributing to the company’s international growth, especially prior to their relocation to Dubai.

– Founded “TAS” media consulting company in 2003, advising influential figures, notably Prince Alwaleed bin Talal (2003-2007).

– Led Rotana Channel from 2007 onwards, where he initiated a strategic transformation of Rotana Khalijia, shifting its focus from pure entertainment to family-oriented diversified content.

– Successfully recruited significant media personalities, including Bilal Al-Arabi and the late Saud Al-Dosari, enhancing Rotana’s prominence in the Arab audience market.

– Appointed Minister of Media by royal decree of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on December 27, 2018, a position he holds to date.

Throughout Turki Al-Shabana’s prolific career, he has been recognized for his visionary approach to content enhancement and has frequently advocated for privatization policies in media and TV broadcasting. His expertise and achievements have cemented his status as one of the influential media executives in the Arab world.