The Academy says it will champion music creators at all levels, providing them with platforms, educational programmes and resources specifically tailored to their needs
Media
1 Billion Followers
Dubai opens new Creators HQ; announces plans to attract 10,000 global influencers
The launch took place during the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2025, running from January 11 to 13 across Emirates Towers, DIFC and the Museum of the Future iin Dubai
dubai bling
‘I love both worlds’: Netflix star Safa Siddiqui on motherhood and her growing business empire as Dubai Bling returns for season 3
Season 3 hit Netflix this week, serving up dramatic twists and million-dollar spectacles that have fans buzzing about the show’s most outrageous season yet
Abu Dhabi
Coldplay in Abu Dhabi: British Rock Band’s concert drives record tourism numbers, says new report
For 2025, Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Sports City Stadium will host a British alternative rock band Coldplay for a four-night residency
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia becomes MENA region’s first country to roll out TikTok STEM feed
It is seen as the social media giant’s move to foster a combination of entertainment and education
music in saudi arabia
A new soundtrack for Saudi: Paul Pacifico on the future of music in the kingdom
The Saudi Music Commission has the task of creating a powerful music ecosystem in the Kingdom, with the support of the creative and commercial innovator Paul Pacifico
merger
Getty Images, Shutterstock announce $3.7bn merger deal
The merged entity will retain the name Getty Images Holdings, Inc and continue trading on the New York Stock Exchange under “GETY”
1 Billion Followers
1 Billion Followers in Dubai: Content creators and social media experts gather for digital summit; $1m influencer prize, 420 speakers and industry support
The 1 Billion Followers summit in Dubai will gather leading social media influencers for industry debate and prize-giving
music in saudi arabia
Inside Saudi Arabia’s plan to use music to transform the kingdom’s culture and economy
Inspiring new initiatives will offer the Saudi population the chance to learn music and play a part in the Kingdom’s growing music economy
Riyadh
Saudi Arabia to host Royal Rumble in 2026
Saudi Arabia will host the first WWE Royal Rumble wrestling event held outside North America in 2026
Abu Dhabi hotels
Coldplay in Abu Dhabi: Hotel room rates soar 300% as international fans rush to UAE, industry experts say
A lineup of additional concerts is further attracting fans and tourists from the region and neighbouring countries, further boosting the travel and hospitality demand both in Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Abu Dhabi Film Commission
Abu Dhabi lures film and TV productions with 50% cashback offer
Abu Dhabi will support international and local TV and film production companies with major incentives
1 Billion Followers
Mohamed Alabbar to give keynote address at One Billion Followers Summit
Emaar founder says content creators are the new superpowers
Saudi Arabia looks to influencers to boost tourism sector
Saudi Arabia will partner with international social media influencers to highlight the Kingdom’s tourism sector
MDLBEAST
Music beyond borders: How Saud AlTurki is driving cultural exchange
Saud AlTurki is the visionary behind Brij Entertainment who’s connecting Saudi and Western music, while mentoring young talent, driving cultural exchange, and ensuring artists thrive both creatively and financially
Gaming
NEOM boosts Saudi gaming sector with publishing network
Saudi Arabia’s developing gaming industry will be supported by investments from NEOM Media’s Gaming Publishing Partner Network
Dubai Media Council
Dubai announces new media laws
Dubai expands powers of Media Council as it looks to boost film and games industries in the city