Chapter 23: Assessment of Value Systems in Digital Platform Dramas

Technology has transformed all aspects of modern life, redefining how media content is produced, distributed, and consumed. Television has undergone a significant evolution through digitization, leading to the emergence of paid drama platforms that revolutionize the entertainment industry. These platforms, such as Shahid (affiliated with MBC) and Shasha (a Kuwaiti-owned platform based in London), offer diverse and contemporary content accessible at any time and free from traditional television constraints such as advertisements, censorship, or fixed broadcast schedules.

Unlike conventional television, these digital platforms operate across smart devices, enabling personalized viewing experiences that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. By showcasing a wide range of narratives and values, they embody the essence of globalization and contribute to shaping cultural exchange in the digital era. Furthermore, the flexible production models—adopted without restriction by episode length, themes, or audience demographics—have created vast opportunities for creative innovation, investment, and audience engagement.

This study examines the impact of these digital drama platforms on audiences and the values they transmit, focusing on how they influence cultural perception, social behavior, and entertainment consumption patterns in Arab societies. The findings highlight the growing role of digital platforms in redefining drama production, promoting new voices, and reflecting globalized cultural identities.