Abu Dhabi’s Ethmar, partner of Guggenheim Brothers to launch multi-million dollar media fund
Abu Dhabi is strengthening its ambitions to become a global hub for the creative industries after Ethmar International Holding partnered with Guggenheim Brothers Media to launch a multi-billion dollar investment fund focused on communications, entertainment and the digital creative economy.
The fund, which will be headquartered in Abu Dhabi, combines Ethmar’s long-term institutional capital with the local market expertise and global experience of Guggenheim Brothers Media in supporting early-stage creative businesses.
The partnership represents a milestone in the fund’s path to launch and supports Abu Dhabi’s strategy to build a vibrant, internationally connected arts sector.
The investment vehicle will target high-growth opportunities across content creation, creator tools and infrastructure, digital intellectual property, entertainment technology, fan engagement platforms and next-generation storytelling.
The new fund boosts Abu Dhabi’s economy
By setting up the fund in Abu Dhabi, our partners aim to position the emirate as a launch pad for companies that want to grow globally.
Guggenheim Brothers Media builds on the long-standing Guggenheim family legacy and will use its unique global social media and entertainment experience to identify and support promising creative businesses.
The fund will be led by Dillon Lawson-Johnston and Criswell Fiordalis, who together bring more than two decades of experience across film, television, digital media and entertainment technology.
Lawson-Johnston, the granddaughter of Solomon R. Guggenheim, has previously held roles at United Talent Agency, Sugar23, Untitled Entertainment and Untitled Content. Fiordalis brings senior leadership experience from Lionsgate, MRC, Hello Sunshine and WEBTOON.
A spokesperson for Ethmar International Holding said the partnership reflects Abu Dhabi’s evolution beyond traditional investment sectors. “Abu Dhabi is known around the world as a capital city, and it is also building the foundations of a growing economy that is connected to the rest of the world,” said a spokesperson for the ministry.
“Together with Guggenheim Brothers Media, we combine Ethmar’s strong cultural heritage and long-term vision to advance Abu Dhabi’s position as a future-oriented media and creative hub.”
Lawson-Johnston and Fiordalis said the fund was designed to support emerging entrepreneurs from Abu Dhabi to the world. “We are very happy to work with Ethmar International Holding to support emerging creative companies that are building the future of culture,” they said. “Together, we aim to create a platform where founders can find funding, strategic support and a global network to help them succeed.”
The fund is expected to act as a catalyst for new economic and creative opportunities, strengthening Abu Dhabi’s growing role in the investment of global news, entertainment and digital content.
