Ahmed El-Taheri, Head of the News Channels Division at UMS, emphasized in an interview with Ahl El-Media Facebook page that Q News has its own unique digital identity and does not replicate the Arabic content of Al-Qahera news channel, which has been broadcasting 24 hours a day since its launch two years ago.

However, he noted that there will be some integration between the two channels by incorporating certain elements and staff from Al-Qahera News.

Q News channel is adopting a model similar to international news by focusing on digital platforms rather than traditional broadcasting, said El-Taheri.

"Q News is a Cairo-based comprehensive media platform that offers news bulletin, follow-ups and programs 24/7 via its digital platforms, live stream and website," as mentioned on the channel's YouTube account.

The English online digital news channel will be aired in three stages. 

The first phase started on Tuesday, streaming on YouTube and the video-on-demand platform WATCH IT for four hours daily, from 4pm to 8pm Cairo time, until the end of 2024.

The second phase will increase the broadcast duration to between 8 and 10 hours in the first quarter of 2025, followed by the third phase, which will provide 24-hour broadcasting.

El-Taheri noted that the 4-8pm broadcast window was chosen due to its suitability for audiences in multiple international capitals.

The launch of the digital news channel aligns with keeping up with global trends and the increasing focus on social media as the fastest and most effective means of reaching the public, as well as enhancing the speed and impact of message delivery, El-Taheri added.

El-Taheri highlighted that documentary content will be a key feature of Q News.

He noted that the channel's political and media-oriented role is a vital part of the UMS news channels’ project.

Established in 2016, UMS has become one of the largest media conglomerates in the Arab World - with over 40 subsidiaries in various media fields such as visual, audio, print, electronic media, dramatic production, advertising, and direct and indirect advertising services.

UMS media outlets include ON TV Network, El-Hayah TV Network, CBC TV Network, DMC Network, Extra News channel, Al-Youm7 newspaper, Al-Watan newspaper, Sout El-Omma, Ain, DotMsr, and Egypt Today and Business Today magazines.

UMS also includes the PR agency POD, the media production firm Synergy, and the sports agency Presentation.