Dubai's Ambitious Media Sector Goals

Dubai has set a target to increase the media sector's contribution to its GDP from 1.4 percent to 3 percent by 2033, as Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum convenes a meeting to assess key performance indicators and investment strategies. The meeting, chaired by Sheikh Ahmed, who serves as the Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council (DMC), focused on the potential for growth within the media sector. This initiative aligns with Dubai's broader development agenda and the vision articulated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the importance of fostering public-private partnerships and establishing clear regulatory frameworks to facilitate this growth. In his remarks, Sheikh Ahmed highlighted the necessity of accelerating digital transformation within Dubai's media landscape. He underscored the sector's critical role in enhancing public awareness, supporting the emirate's future initiatives, and bolstering Dubai's influence on the global stage. To keep pace with technological advancements, he called for the adoption of advanced tools and agile strategies that can effectively engage audiences both locally and internationally. During the meeting, Sheikh Ahmed reviewed various performance indicators that will guide the media sector's roadmap toward 2033. These indicators include increasing the sector's GDP contribution, enhancing media exports, attracting foreign investment, and establishing new committees focused on film and gaming. Additionally, priorities were set to strengthen local content production, support private media enterprises, and expand incentives for talent development. Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, noted that the transfer of regulatory oversight of Dubai's media sector to the Council, as stipulated by Law No. (29) of 2024, has had a significant impact. This expanded mandate allows the Council to implement media development plans effectively and in accordance with international standards, reinforcing Dubai's status as a hub for media creativity and global talent. Nehal Badri, Secretary General of the Dubai Media Council, mentioned the Council's efforts to enhance its global expertise through collaborations with international academic institutions. These partnerships aim to shape forward-looking media policies and cultivate future media talent. Initiatives such as the Dubai Film and Games Forum and the establishment of the Dubai Film Development Committee and the Dubai Gaming Committee were also highlighted as part of the Council's commitment to talent development. At the conclusion of the meeting, Sheikh Ahmed reviewed Dubai Media Incorporated's (DMI) integrated digital strategy and the progress of major transformation initiatives, including the expansion of the "Awaan" platform for television content. The strategy focuses on advanced content development, original productions, and partnerships with technology leaders, aiming to strengthen DMI's digital identity through relevant Emirati content and innovative storytelling formats.

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