Google launches 20 new ‘Ahlan Online’ educational videos

In an effort to bring new users online across the Middle East and assist them gain the most from their online activities, Google today introduced an additional 20 videos to ‘Ahlan Online’.

Initially launched in April 2010, ‘Ahlan Online’ Arabic language educational videos, all less than three minutes, provide a brief description of a topic, followed by a simple tutorial. It’s proved a hit. ‘Ahlan Online’ has seen over 1.5million unique users availing the service since its inception and have been played more than 1m times.

Commenting on the roll out, Najeeb Jarrar, Google Product Marketing Manager Middle East and North Africa stated, “The Middle East is home to 75 million internet users, with an expected increase of 10million new users set to come online in the coming years. ‘Ahlan Online’ is designed to showcase the vast capabilities of the internet, helping individuals learn how to access information and avail basic online tools.

Although Arabs comprise almost 6% of the world’s population, less than 1% of all Internet content is in Arabic. Ahlan helps to remove some of the barriers to Arab Internet growth.

The new videos focus on explaining the big picture behind web browsers, search, email, chat, sharing and collaboration and online privacy.

Jarrar added, “The latest videos have been created according to the feedback and needs of users in the region. Through monitoring user commentary, help forums and online queries, the series caters directly to their demands and addresses challenges new users face. We believe the digital age is a reality and Google is committed to supporting individuals in this region take advantage of this new communication platform, get creative and add their voice to the global forum.”

‘Ahlan Online’ launched initially with 7 videos. Due to their immense popularity, an additional 20 videos have been added. The second growth phase of ‘Ahlan Online’ brings the total available content to 27 videos. The latest additions to the site include enhanced content whereby users are able to learn the more advanced techniques of tools such as search and e-mails, introduced in the initial phase of Ahlan Online.

“This is the first step of many as we work towards raising awareness about the Internet’s vast capabilities, from access to information and resources to more complex business tools. ‘Ahlan Online’ focuses on enabling new users to learn the ways of Internet through an interactive lesson in Arabic, as well as gain tips on how to navigate across a multitude of Google products. We believe it is important for the Arab world to take advantage of this new medium, and we are committed to supporting users develop their online skills and capabilities,” concluded Jarrar.

Videos are accompanied with an action button to allow users to try out what they learned or browse relevant Google products and tools. Additional videos will be continually developed based on user demand.

Notes and media contacts

About Google Inc.
Google’s innovative search technologies connect millions of people around the world with information every day. Founded in 1998 by Stanford Ph.D. students Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Google today is a top web property in all major global markets. Google’s targeted advertising program provides businesses of all sizes with measurable results, while enhancing the overall web experience for users. Google is headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit www.google.com.

Contact:
Shaden Abdellatif
Senior Account Executive
Hill and Knowlton
Direct Line: +9714 4055615
Telephone: +9714 3344930

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