Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
The fifth edition of Dubai PodFest showcased two important launches aimed at shaping the Arab podcasting industry. The event introduced the Droob Areeka comedy-travel podcast and Insaat, the first Arab digital platform dedicated to supporting podcasters. The festival was organized by Dubai Press Club under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.
Droob Areeka: Comedy Meets Travel
Produced by Ghmza Entertainment Production Company, Droob Areeka is a new version of the popular Areeka podcast. Hosted by Bibi Al-Abdulmohsen and Talal Sam and directed by Abdullah AlThamer, the show combines comedy with travel experiences. The podcast follows the team on a 30-day road trip across the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, with a total of 12 episodes planned – two per country. Filming is scheduled to start in October.
Importance of Comedy-Travel Content
Abdullah AlThamer described the launch as a milestone for Gulf entertainment, emphasizing the rarity of comedy-travel content in the region. Hosts Talal Sam and Bibi Al-Abdulmohsen shared their excitement about connecting with audiences across the Gulf and exploring the region’s diverse cultures and landscapes. The podcast aims to entertain while highlighting the unique experiences and traditions of each GCC country.
Insaat: Supporting Arab Podcasters
In addition to the podcast launch, Dubai PodFest unveiled Insaat, a digital platform designed to empower Arab podcasters and strengthen the audio content industry. Insaat is co-founded by Luca Allam, former CEO of PHD MENA and host of Luca’s Insight Track, and Hikmat Wehbi, founder of W Production and host of the Hikmat Wehbi Podcast.
Helping Creators Monetise and Grow
Insaat provides Arab content creators with a complete ecosystem, including technical tools, marketing support, professional training, and development opportunities. Luca Allam highlighted that digital content is evolving rapidly, and Insaat aims to help podcasters monetize their work while providing innovative ways to engage audiences. Hikmat Wehbi added that podcasts offer a “free space for storytelling beyond traditional media,” and the platform seeks to foster collaboration and creativity.
Dubai as a Regional Podcast Hub
Mahfoudha Saleh, Manager of Dubai PodFest, emphasized the event’s role as the leading platform for podcasting in the region. She stated that initiatives like Droob Areeka and Insaat showcase Dubai’s commitment to supporting Arab content creators and reinforcing its status as a hub for digital media. According to Saleh, podcasting gives creators a direct connection to audiences and opens opportunities for growth and professional development.
Promoting Innovation and Talent
Dubai PodFest 2025 underlined its vision of encouraging innovation, nurturing talent, and giving Arab voices new platforms to reach listeners regionally and globally. The event highlighted the importance of digital content and how podcasts are becoming a key medium for creative expression.
Filming for Droob Areeka will begin in October, with the first season expected to air in early 2026. Insaat is now available for Arab podcasters who want to grow their audience, monetize their content, and collaborate with brands. The platform aims to support a vibrant and sustainable creative community in the Arab world.
The launches of Droob Areeka and Insaat at Dubai PodFest mark an important step for Arab digital media. With comedy-travel content and a dedicated platform for podcasters, Dubai continues to position itself as a regional hub for innovation, creativity, and cultural exchange.
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