MBC 3 channel frequencies on all satellites – Global frequencies

MBC 3 is a leading children’s television channel in the Arab world, captivating young audiences with its engaging, family-friendly content.

Launched by the Middle East Broadcasting Center (MBC) group, MBC 3 has become a household name, offering a safe and fun platform for children to enjoy cartoons, educational programs and interactive shows.

Since its inception, the channel has prioritized content aligned with Arab cultural values, appealing to children’s imaginations.

Broadcasting 24/7, MBC 3 is available free-to-air (FTA) on multiple satellites, making it accessible to millions of viewers in the Middle East, North Africa and beyond.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to MBC 3, covering its background, satellite frequencies, reception tips, receiver setup steps, and an overview of its popular programs and shows, ensuring you can tune in and explore its vibrant content.

MBC 3 overview

MBC 3, an affiliate of the MBC Group, was launched in 2004 to specifically cater to children aged 3 to 12 years. Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the channel is part of one of the largest media conglomerates in the Middle East.

MBC 3 stands out for its commitment to providing high-quality, age-appropriate content that entertains and promotes creativity and learning.

The channel broadcasts in Arabic and English, featuring a mix of dubbed international cartoons, original productions and educational segments.

Its programming is carefully curated to respect Arab social norms, ensuring that parents trust the content their children watch.

With viewership exceeding millions, MBC 3 is a world-class children’s channel, celebrated for its diverse offering and interactive approach, such as engaging young audiences through competitions and online platforms.

MBC 3 frequencies on all satellites

To watch MBC 3, you need the correct satellite frequency, signal direction, symbol rate and FEC (Forward Error Correction) settings for your receiver.

Below is a list of the latest frequencies for MBC 3 on major satellites, based on information available as of June 2025. Please note that frequencies may change, so always check with your satellite provider or official MBC sources.

Nilesat 201/Eutelsat 7 West A (7.0° West)

• Frequency: 11471 MHz

• Polarization: vertical (V)

• Rate symbol: 27500 kS/s

• FEC: 5/6

• Beam: Eutelsat 8 West B East Beam

• Notes: Covers the Middle East, North Africa and parts of Europe. Suitable for viewers in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Morocco.

Arabsat Badr 4/5/6 (26.0° East)

• Frequency: 11938 MHz

• Polarization: vertical (V)

• Rate symbol: 27500 kS/s

• FEC: 3/4

• Beam: Northwest Africa and the Middle East

• Notes: Ideal for viewers in Nigeria, Ghana and the Gulf region. MBC 3 HD is available on this frequency.

Eutelsat 8 West B (8.0° West)

• Frequency: 11471 MHz

• Polarization: vertical (V)

• Rate symbol: 27500 kS/s

• FEC: 5/6

• Beam: East beam

• Notes: Covers South Sudan and parts of East Africa. May require larger dish in weaker signal areas.

Other satellites

• MBC 3 is not available on satellites such as Hotbird (13.0° East) or Astra (19.2° East), as the MBC Group mainly broadcasts on Nilesat, Arabsat and Eutelsat for its regional viewers.

• For viewers in the Americas or Asia (for example, Koreasat 5/5A or Galaxy 13), MBC 3 is generally not broadcast, but check with local providers for rebroadcasts.

Tips for receiving MBC 3

To ensure a clear and stable signal for MBC 3, consider the following reception tips:

1. Choose the right size of plate: A 60-90 cm dish is sufficient for Nilesat and Arabsat in the Middle East and North Africa. In sub-Saharan Africa (e.g. Nigeria, Ghana), a 90cm or larger plate is recommended due to the lower quality level.

2. Align the plate carefully: Use a satellite finder or dish pointing app (such as DishPointer) to align the dish to the target satellite. Ensure a clear line of sight without obstacles such as trees or buildings.

3. Select the correct LNB: Use a universal Ku-band (Low Noise Block) LNB with a local oscillator frequency of 9.75 GHz (low band) and 10.6 GHz (high band). For multi-receiver setups, consider a Twin or Quattro LNB with a multiswitch.

4. Check the weather conditions: Rain attenuation may disturb Ku-band signals. Make sure your dish is securely mounted to withstand wind and rain.

5. Check footprint coverage: Confirm that your location is within the satellite’s range (for example, Nilesat’s MENA range or Arabsat’s Northwest Africa range). Visit www.dishpointer.com to check coverage maps.

6. Update receiver firmware: Make sure your satellite receiver is updated to support the latest transponder settings and DVB-S/DVB-S2 standards.

Steps to set up MBC 3 on your receiver

Follow these steps to manually add MBC 3 to your satellite receiver:

1. Access the Settings menu: Using the remote control, access the “Installation” or “Channel Setup” menu on the receiver.

2. Select Manual Search: Choose “Manual Installation” or “Manual Scan” to enter custom transponder settings.

3. Choose the satellite: Select the appropriate satellite (e.g. Nilesat 201, Badr 4/5/6 or Eutelsat 8 West B) from the list.

4. Enter the transponder details:

   • Enter the frequency (for example, 11471 MHz for Nilesat).

   • Set the direction of the signal (Vertical or Horizontal).

   • Enter the symbol speed (for example, 27500 kS/s).

   • Set FEC (for example, 5/6 or 3/4).

5. Search channels: Start scanning by selecting “OK” or “Scan”. The receiver will search for channels on the inserted transponder.

6. Save channels: Once the scan is complete, MBC 3 should appear in the channel list. Save your changes.

7. Optimize the dish: If the signal is weak, slightly adjust the azimuth and elevation of the dish while monitoring the quality level on the receiver setup screen.

8. Try the channel: Tune into MBC 3 to ensure it is broadcast clearly. If there is no signal, recheck your transponder settings or dish alignment.

For specific receiver models, please consult your owner’s manual, as menu options may vary. If problems persist, contact a professional installer.

MBC 3 programs and popular shows

MBC 3 offers a diverse range of programs, including animated series, live shows and educational content, all tailored for children.

The channel’s content is designed to entertain and promote positive values ​​such as teamwork, creativity and problem solving. Below are some of his most popular shows and an overview of his programming:

Popular shows

• SpongeBob SquarePants: This iconic animated series follows the adventures of SpongeBob, a sea sponge who lives in Bikini Bottom. Nicknamed in Arabic, it is a favorite for its humor and colorful characters.

• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The four Ninja Turtles, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and Donatello, fight evil in New York City, captivating children with action-packed episodes.

• Sasha and Milo: the amazing protectors: This animated series features Sasha and Milo, who transform between human and feline forms to protect their island from dark forces, blending adventure with relatable pre-teen challenges.

• Prince Jamie: An alien prince from the planet Blarb hides on Earth, befriending humans while evading pursuers. This show mixes science fiction with heartwarming themes of friendship.

• Barbie Adventures in the House of Dreams: Follow Barbie and her friends in this animated series, full of fun, fashion and life lessons that appeal to girls.

Programming overview

• Cartoons: MBC 3 airs a mix of international hits (e.g., “Tom and Jerry,” “Scooby-Doo”) and regional animations, all dubbed in Arabic for accessibility.

• Educational segments: Programs like “Tala and Friends” teach children science, math and social skills through interactive storytelling.

• Live shows: The channel features talent competitions and game shows, encouraging children to participate and show off their skills.

• Movies: MBC 3 occasionally airs animated family films, such as Disney and Pixar classics, during holidays or special events.

• Interactive content: The channel engages its viewers through online games, competitions and social media, promoting a sense of community among young viewers.

MBC 3’s programming is programmed to adapt to children’s viewing habits, with morning time slots for younger children and afternoon/evening time slots for older children.

The channel avoids content with violence or inappropriate themes, earning the trust of parents across the region.