Dubai hits ‘play’ in the film and Gaming Revolution to boost the creative economy

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Dubai hits ‘play’ in the film and Gaming Revolution to boost the creative economy

Dubai has launched new committees dedicated to the development of the film and entertainment sectors, confirming its position as a global hub for creative industries and Media Innovation.

The move, announced by the Dubai Media Council (DMC), aligns with its mandate to promote creativity, strengthen key media sectors, and enhance Dubai’s leadership in the global arts economy.

Under Dubai Media Council Council No. 8 and 20 of 2025, the Dubai Film Promotion Committee and the Dubai Sports Committee have been established to accelerate industry growth and industry collaboration.

Film and Gaming Committees

IS ISAMAM KAZIM, a DMC member, will chair the Film Development Committee, while Khalfan Belhoul, also a DMC member, will head the sports committee.

Both decisions take effect immediately and form part of a wider plan to position the emirate as a global hub for film production, gaming creation, and digital content creation.

Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Mashid Al Maktoum, the second ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Affairs Council, directed the development of a comprehensive action plan to develop these sectors of the country and areas.

‘Dubai’s media sector is entering a new era of growth’

Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed said the establishment of these two committees strengthens the institutional framework needed to create growth in Dubai’s expanding telecommunications sector.

He added that Dubai is well positioned to achieve global leadership in film and gaming, supported by its digital infrastructure, Agile infrastructure management, and global geographic connectivity.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “Dubai’s media sector is entering a new era of renewed growth and global economic cooperation.

“Guided by a clear plan and a stable mindset, we continue to anticipate global shifts and respond with strategic plans. Through the dedication of our teams, we are where talent and ideas from around the world shape the future,” he said.

Mona al Marri: Strengthening the Debai Media Ecosystem

Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, said the new Committees represent a major milestone in strengthening the media ecosystem and supporting the Emirate’s creative economy.

He said: “The formation of these two committees marks an important step forward in developing an integrated media ecosystem and creating opportunities for the film and entertainment sectors, supporting the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

He also added that the Initiative emphasizes efforts to increase local talent, attract global expertise, and creative industries that are at the heart of the emirate’s economy, with film and entertainment acting as important speakers to export its skills to the world.

Supporting talent and investment

These two new committees will deliver high-quality services designed to strengthen the Emirate’s position as a global hub for media production and innovation.

The Film Development Committee will work with local and international studios, prepare training programs for budding filmmakers, and promote communication between stakeholders to expand Dubai’s film industry.

The Dubai Games Committee will promote community partnerships, support startups, and develop training and professional development programs for young creators.

These initiatives aim to accelerate Dubai’s digital economy, strengthen its global leadership in gaming, and create new opportunities for investors and innovators.

Committee members

Members of the Dubai Film Promotion Committee

Hesham Al Olama, Media Council (Vice-Chairman)
Jamal Al Sharif, Development Officer
Shaima Al Suwaidi, Culture and Art Authority
Mabher Anwahi, Municipality
Abdullal Al Ali, Roads and Traffic Authorities
Mansour Al Malik, Dubai Customs
Ahmad Belqaizi, Civil Aviation Authority
Colonel Dr. Saud al Rumaithi, Dubai police
Colonel Ali al Hammadi, Directorate General Directorate for Identification and Airmen Affairs
Putma Almutawa, Dubai Airports
Maryam Almahri, Emirates Airlines