Emirati Media Forum Highlights Creative Media Growth

The 10th edition of the Emirati Media Forum was held under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. The event also welcomed Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. This milestone edition celebrated ten years of inspiring discussions, innovation, and growth in the UAE’s dynamic media landscape.

This year’s forum centred around the theme “The Impact of Film and E-Gaming on the Future of Media.” The session featured prominent speakers, including His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, and His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). The discussion was moderated by Abdullatif Alsayegh, CEO of Alsayegh Media, and highlighted how film and e-gaming are emerging as powerful tools in shaping the modern media environment.

Speakers emphasised that cinema and e-gaming are not just entertainment industries but also vital components of the creative economy. These sectors present major investment opportunities that can help diversify the economy and create new career paths for young talents. Dubai’s ability to attract major production houses, gaming companies, and creative investors reinforces its position as a leading regional media hub with global ambitions.

His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul discussed how artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising content creation, audience engagement, and media analysis. He noted that AI tools can enhance storytelling, support digital strategies, and improve user experiences across media platforms. Belhoul added that integrating AI into film and gaming will help Dubai develop advanced media capabilities and remain ahead of global trends.

His Excellency Issam Kazim highlighted the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing’s efforts to promote the city through cinematic storytelling and digital gaming. He explained that film and gaming projects produced in Dubai help showcase its culture, architecture, and innovation to international audiences. Kazim stressed that combining media and tourism efforts plays a vital role in positioning Dubai as a global creative destination.

The forum provided a platform for collaboration among government bodies, media professionals, and private sector innovators. Participants discussed ways to support new content creators, encourage partnerships, and strengthen Dubai’s creative infrastructure. They also reviewed strategies to ensure that Dubai continues to be a leader in media innovation and an attractive hub for international companies.

Panelists agreed that Dubai’s media vision is based on an integrated and balanced ecosystem that values creativity while maintaining cultural identity and governance standards. They pointed out that as Dubai becomes a hub for digital entertainment, it must continue promoting local talent and preserving Emirati values through responsible storytelling and content creation.

The discussions concluded with a shared understanding that film, gaming, and digital media will remain essential to the UAE’s growth in the creative economy. Dubai’s focus on innovation, talent development, and smart technologies ensures that it continues to attract global attention. The Emirati Media Forum remains a key event in driving this mission forward, offering a space to exchange ideas and build the media of the future.