Doha’s much-maligned English language radio offerings welcome a new challenger today, in the form of a dedicated channel from QF Radio.
The Qatar Foundation-funded station – which previously broadcast a mix of English and Arabic programming – will now operate two separate channels, with Arabic on 93.7 FM (@QFRadio on Twitter) and English on 91.7 FM (@QFRadio2).
Qatar Radio‘s QBS Radio is currently the only other English language music station in town.
QBS has long been the target of complaints on Twitter under the hashtag #occupyQBS, with listeners registering their displeasure about a range of issues including music choice, programming and a lack of local news.
QF Radio has not yet released the details of its new schedule, but promises in a statement “shows on innovation, technology, sport and current events.” Once a week on its Corners show, it will air updates from Doha News at the top of the hour.
The new English channel’s breakfast show, RISE, aired for the first time this morning, to positive reviews from some listeners:
@qfradio2 -love the new format. I appreciate local news, traffic and weather. Combine this with great music and you will be a great success!
What a pleasure. No more mixed tape. No more QBS. @qfradio2 is on at 91.7fm #Qatar #doha
And @qfradio2 ends with a favorite song. Congrats on the awesome first show!
QF Radio’s relaunch coincides with the opening of new, state-of-the-art broadcast facilities in Education City.
What do you think? Have you tuned in today?
Credit: Photos courtesy of QFRadio
