For the first time, Virgin Megastore, Middle East, presented the Virgin Megastore Platinum Award to the Arabic Superstar Ragheb Alama in recognition of the success of his latest Best-Selling album "Ba'sha'ak". Moreover, to acknowledge and highlight Ragheb's prosperous 25-year musical career.

Nisreen Shocair, President of Virgin Megastore - Middle East handed Ragheb Alama his award among fans, press members, social and media figures.

"Ba'sha'ak" includes 12 tracks out of which 3 have already been shot as music videos.

'Ana Weyak' was the 1st title to be shot as a music video, followed by 'Sirr Hobbi' that marks Ragheb's return to the Gulf rhythm and Khaleeji genre with a Yemeni folkloric style song. This title has been the subject of the media since its release, and even more after the controversy with the release of the music video later last year. 'Yigheeb' is a track that has been remixed and is the 3rd release to be shot as a music video.

"Arab artists have always enjoyed the utmost admiration and support of Virgin Megastore. Ragheb Alama is iconic in the world of music. We take pride in delivering and highlighting Ragheb's admirable work to a huge number of music lovers around the region" said Nisreen Shocair, President, Virgin Megastore.

Ragheb Alama had launched "Ba'sha'ak" at Virgin Megastore - Mall of the Emirates- last year on May 14th 2008. Towards the end of the launch event, the 1st copy was publicly bought for 30,000 AED and was named "The Golden Copy". The 2nd copy was also bought during the event by Virgin Megastore - Middle East, for 10,000 AED. The entire amount was then donated to Dubai Cares.

"Ba'sha'ak" is Ragheb Alama's 15th album crowning 25 years of success in the entertainment business. "Ba'sha'ak" limited edition, which is exclusively available through Virgin Megastore, includes a DVD with never before seen, behind the scenes footage and memorable moments with Ragheb throughout his career. The album is a very personal offering from Ragheb as he shares his life experiences with his fans.

"The world of music has changed significantly since I first started, and I feel really privileged to be handed this award by Nisreen Shocair and to be recognized by Virgin Megastore. Virgin Megastore has always been my ultimate and ideal platform to gain direct access to music fans in the region. It is a great honor to be the first artist to receive the Virgin Megastore Platinum Award" said Ragheb Alama.

Ragheb Alama arrived to Dubai after performing in Tunisia in front of an enormously large crowd. He is scheduled to leave to Cairo, shortly after the Virgin Megastore award-ceremony to meet some top composers and songwriters.

As for his Arab tour, it has been said that Ragheb is indeed preparing for a series of "never seen before" performances with new and interesting alliances that begins in Amman, soon.

About Virgin Megastore:

Virgin Megastore is a global leader in retail entertainment with stores in 50 countries throughout the globe, including the Middle East. A one-stop shop for all your entertainment needs, Virgin Megastore offers a wide range of products, including CDs, books, games, movies and the latest in technology. Virgin Megastore offers an innovative entertainment destination for the young and young at heart with its unique shopping experience. Catering to local cultures through events, activities and support of local artists in each market it enters, Virgin Megastore is truly a global brand with local flavor.