UAE telecoms operator du has confirmed it will drop beIN channels from its television packages from July 1.
The company made the announcement in an email to customers earlier this month.
It had previously said that beIN channels – which offer films as well as live football from major European leagues and other sporting events such as cricket and tennis – could be removed from the start of next month.
The Qatari broadcaster's services are currently carried on the du Home package.
“We'd like to inform you that the beIN Ultimate add-on pack will no longer be available effective July 1,” the du email stated.
“You will not be charged any cancellation fees for this change, if applicable.”
In a statement, du said the decision was “due to commercial reasons”.
“Subscribers to the packages will be compensated through a discount in their monthly bills, according to their monthly billing cycle and due dates,” a representative told The National.
The beIN Ultimate Package provided by du costs Dh200 ($54) per month, on top of an existing du Home subscription.
BeIN said discussions with du regarding the renewal and inclusion of its channels “have been continuing for many months”.
After July 1, it said du customers can access beIN's channels through the beIN Satellite Network or its streaming app, TOD.
“Du subscribers enquiring about possible cancellation and/or refunds, should contact du customer service on +971 4390 5555,” a beIN official said.
BeIN Sports has the Middle East broadcasting rights to Premier League games, the Ashes series between England and Australia, ATP/WTA tennis including Wimbledon, the NBA and aired last year's Qatar World Cup throughout the region.
Fellow telecoms operator Etisalat by e& stopped carrying beIN channels on its TV services on June 1.
Etisalat by e& subscribers missed out on Manchester City's FA Cup and Champions League wins – which completed a remarkable treble. City had already secured the Premier League title.
BeIN said at the time it was disappointed not to renew its contract with Etisalat by e&.
“After lengthy discussions where beIN has tirelessly sought to extend our decade-long partnership with Etisalat, we are disappointed not to be able to renew this relationship at this time,” a beIN official said.
Now du subscribers will be unable to see much of the Ashes cricket series between England and Australia.
The visiting Australians earned a thrilling win in the first Test of a five-match series.
The second Test of the series got under way on June 28 and will conclude on July 2, if the game reaches a fifth and final day.
Customers wishing to continue to receive beIN services can contact the broadcaster directly for subscription options.
