United States-based web streaming TV network Netflix has launched in the United Arab Emirates and other regional countries as part of a major worldwide rollout, it announced on Wednesday.

Netflix said it had significantly expanded its global footprint to 190 countries, making its Internet TV service available in 130 new markets including UAE - but not China.

California-based Netflix, which began as a mail-order DVD service but is now producing award-winning original content alongside its offering of older shows and movies, launched in 2007. Now, 70 million subscribers pay a monthly fee for unlimited service.

"Today you are witnessing the birth of a new global Internet TV network," cofounder and chief executive Reed Hastings said at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

"With this launch, consumers around the world - from Singapore to St. Petersburg, from San Francisco to Sao Paulo - will be able to enjoy TV shows and movies simultaneously - no more waiting.
Source: Khaleej Times