The X Factor is the Arabic version of the The X Factor. Its first Arabic series started on March 26, 2006. The 14-episode first series was broadcast in 22 Arabic-speaking countries. It was known to be in its debut, one of the most watched programs on TV and it is produced and supported by Rotana, the biggest production company in the Arab World. The winner of the competition earned a chance to sign with Rotana. The X Factor is created by Simon Cowell. The Arabic-language version of the program had a similar format to the British version, in that there were three judges who each had four contestants to mentor, resulting in a total of twelve contestants.