The Inaugural Film and Gaming Forum: A New Era for Media in Dubai
Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Films and Games Commission (DFGC) has announced a groundbreaking initiative: the inaugural Film and Gaming Forum. Scheduled to take place during the Arab Media Summit from 26 to 28 May 2025, this forum signifies a pivotal moment for the media landscape in Dubai and the Arab world at large.
Advancing Media Sectors
The Film and Gaming Forum is set to be a cornerstone of Dubai’s strategic vision, positioning the emirate as a global leader in content creation. Recognizing the rapid growth of the film and gaming sectors, the DFGC aims to create a platform that showcases innovation, fosters collaboration, and promotes best practices across the industry. This initiative reflects a commitment to promoting creative talents and discussions surrounding the future of entertainment in the region.
Voices of Leadership
Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, emphasized the importance of the forum as an expansion of the Arab Media Summit’s agenda. She highlighted film and gaming as critical industries, capable of generating significant economic value and presenting new opportunities for creative talent. By facilitating discussions around storytelling and emerging technologies, the forum seeks to illuminate the innovative potential within the Arab media landscape.
Similarly, Her Excellency Nehal Badri, Secretary General of the Dubai Media Council, acknowledged the strategic shift in advancing the region’s media sector through this forum. With a focus on technology integration and talent development, the DFGC aims to spark conversations that enhance regional production capabilities and tap into the evolving potential of gamification and immersive content.
A Platform for Global Talent
The forum has garnered attention from prominent international players, including Amazon, Netflix, and Square Enix, who will contribute their insights and experiences. The presence of such renowned organizations signals an exciting opportunity for collaboration that can elevate the local media scene on a global scale. Hesham Al Olama, Director of Strategy and Performance Management at the Dubai Media Council, emphasized the importance of this dynamic exchange and its potential impact on both cinema and digital storytelling.
Day One: Spotlight on Creativity
Kicking off the first day, the forum will feature a series of high-profile sessions, notably the gaming-focused discussion titled "The Future of Gaming: From Passion to Profession." This session aims to explore how individuals can transform their passion for gaming into viable careers. Distinguished speakers such as Mohammed Al Albsimi, Founder and CEO of TrueGaming, and Abdullah bin Baz, CEO of Baz Station, will share valuable insights on this evolving field.
Additionally, in partnership with the Dubai Media Council, there will be a deep dive into emerging trends and technologies shaping the media landscape, ensuring attendees gain a comprehensive understanding of where the industry is headed.
Celebrating Women’s Contributions
Another essential aspect of the forum will be the panel discussion on "Women in Film and Cinema". Collaborating with organizations like the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture and Netflix, this session aims to honor women’s contributions in the industry while sparking conversation about the challenges they face and the successes they achieve.
Day Two: Engaging Discussions
The second day aligns with the Arab Media Forum and continues to foster important dialogues. One of the sessions, "Drama’s Success in the Digital Age," will host influential figures from the region’s drama production industry, providing insights into its evolution and future potential. The collaboration with Shahid promises to deliver new perspectives on how digital mediums can enhance storytelling.
Additionally, the session titled "Future of TV and Cinema Production" aims to address the revival of the Arab cinema industry, exploring the challenges and opportunities available. Aimed at revitalizing the creative landscape, this conversation will be critical in shaping the direction of future productions.
Exploring the Emirati Film Industry
As a nod to local talent, a special session titled "Emirati Film Industry … Where is it Heading?" will feature key Emirati filmmakers discussing the current state of the industry and their visions for its future. This session underscores the importance of nurturing local talent and enhancing opportunities for Emirati creatives.
Day Three: The Global Stage
The final day of the forum will coincide with the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit, enriching the overall experience. Opening with a conversation featuring Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan, a prominent figure in international cinema, this session is sure to draw attention. The inclusion of discussions around "Beyond the Truth in Social Media" with actress Laila Abdallah emphasizes the evolving role of social media in storytelling.
The Value of Festivals and Industry Insights
Crucially, the session "Your Film at a Festival … What’s Next?" will offer insights into the importance of festival participation for filmmakers and its role in elevating cinematic standards. Collaborating with Amazon, Dominique Unsworth, CEO of Resource Productions, will provide valuable advice for filmmakers looking to navigate the festival landscape.
Finally, the forum closes with a session titled "Video Game Industry: Between the Public and Private Sector," featuring industry experts discussing the evolving landscape of the gaming sector and the potential for growth through public and private collaboration.
This comprehensive forum not only marks a pivotal moment for media in Dubai but also opens the door for collaboration, innovation, and dialogue within the film and gaming industries. It signals a promising future for creative expression and artistic development across the Arab world.
