National Geographic Abu Dhabi, the Middle East’s documentary entertainment television channel, will broadcast the first "Megafactories" episode on Almarai Company of Saudi Arabia on Monday.
At 10 p.m. Saudi time and 11 p.m. UAE time, the telecast will cover the world’s largest vertically integrated dairy company, in this in-depth exploration of the processes that take milk from the cow to the customer.
National Geographic Abu Dhabi was formed as a partnership between National Geographic Channels International and Abu Dhabi Media.
“Megafactories” gives viewers a peep into some of the world’s largest factories. Exciting footage follows the manufacturing process of the most recognizable and loved everyday products.
After featuring the production facilities of iconic brands such as Coca-Cola, Ferrari, IKEA, Boeing and more, “Megafactories” now comes to the Middle East for the very first time to feature the Saudi-based dairy company Almarai.
The episode examines Almarai’s production line process, from the standards used in the company’s dairy superfarms, through to stocking the end product in supermarkets.
“Bringing 'Megafactories' to the Middle East for the first time is a positive step for the region’s industry. Initiatives such as this help raise awareness of our local business success stories, which will inspire audiences across the region to achieve similar accomplishments,” said Mohamed Al Hammadi, director of Public Service Affairs at Abu Dhabi Media.
“When Abu Dhabi Media partnered with National Geographic Channel to create National Geographic Abu Dhabi, our intention was to provide the region with leading global factual entertainment. This content has always been personalized specifically for the Middle East through dubbing in Arabic, and with “Megafactories: Almarai” we are taking local engagement to a whole new level.”
“Megafactories” gives viewers a unique inside perspective on how iconic brands come to life on the assembly line. “We are delighted to showcase Almarai a true manufacturing behemoth, a global player in its sector and one of the most well-known brands in the Middle East and North Africa, as part of latest season of Megafactories which will premiere on National Geographic Abu Dhabi,” said Rohit D’silva, managing director for Middle East and North Africa, National Geographic Channels/Fox International Channels Middle East.
“It is an honor to be the first homegrown Middle Eastern company to be included in National Geographic’s “Megafactories.” On behalf of Almarai, I would like to thank National Geographic Abu Dhabi for this unique opportunity to represent the progression, quality, and adherence to international standards of the region’s industry,” said Abdulrahman Bin Abdulmohsin Al-Fadley, CEO of Almarai.
NatGeo to feature Almarai
NatGeo to feature Almarai
Najran’s camels are embedded in local culture and traditions
- Several distinct camel breeds are found in the region
- Animals permeate Arab consciousness, says expert
RIYADH: In Najran, camels are not only a vital livestock resource but also a cornerstone of local identity and tradition.
According to Hadi Benyan Al-Amer, head of Najran’s Camel Association, the region has several distinct camel breeds.
Principal among them is the Awarik, an ancient Arabian lineage linked to territories where arak trees flourish, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.
These light-colored, sparsely-haired camels possess remarkable resilience, and are prevalent across southern Arabia.
The Majahim are characterized by dark hues spanning black to brown, and excel in both milk yield and endurance.
The Asayil are prized for their sleek, lean physiques, and dominate in speed-based competitions.
Al-Amer said traditional water sources known as Odood, or traditional water wells and artesian wells, have sustained herders navigating the Empty Quarter’s grazing lands for generations.
These permanent water points, equipped with dedicated drinking basins for camels, showcase the animals’ extraordinary environmental resilience.
Among the principal wells accessible from Najran are Al-Minkhali, Abu Shadid, Hamra Nathil, Tamani, Umm Al-Wahat, and Khujaima.
Countless additional wells dot the Empty Quarter and adjacent territories, forming the backbone of camel owners’ far-reaching pastoral networks.
Dr. Hind bint Dawood Al-Shuqair of Najran University’s Arabic Language Department explained how camels have permeated Arab consciousness through legends and stories spanning thousands of years.
Representing endurance, power, and grace, they have become inseparable from Arab cultural identity.
Archaeological evidence at Al-Ukhdood, Mount Al-Tharwa and Hima, preserves through carvings and ancient artwork the deep bond between people and camels, Al-Shuqair said.
She drew attention to Saudi Arabia’s substantial investment in camel heritage, exemplified by proclaiming 2024 as the Year of the Camel.
This designation emphasizes their importance to national prosperity and cultural heritage while backing global initiatives to promote awareness of camels as valuable economic and cultural assets.
The Kingdom further demonstrates its commitment to protecting the animals through the annual King Abdulaziz Festival, the SPA reported.
