Dubai’s Inaugural Film and Gaming Forum: A New Era in Media Innovation
Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Films and Games Commission has unveiled an exciting milestone in the region’s cultural landscape: the inaugural Film and Gaming Forum. Scheduled to run from May 26-28, 2025, as part of the Arab Media Summit, this forum aims to position Dubai as a pivotal hub for creativity and innovation in the entertainment sector.
A Stellar Lineup
The forum is set against a backdrop of impressive participation from global and regional organizations, creating a unique platform for collaboration and learning. Attendees can look forward to immersive sessions, workshops, and discussions that will dive deep into the nuances of film and gaming, reflecting the dynamic evolution of these industries across the Arab world.
Opening Day Highlights
The first day promises to be particularly engaging, commencing with the session "The Future of Gaming: From Passion to Profession." This discussion will feature prominent figures such as Mohammed Al Albsimi, the Founder and CEO of TrueGaming, and Abdullah bin Baz, CEO of Baz Station. Their insights will focus on how gaming has become a serious profession, enriching the talent pool in the region. Moderated by media personality Jassim Alsheheimi, this session sets the stage for a vibrant conversation around gaming culture in the Arab world.
Further enriching the agenda, there’s a collaborative session with the Dubai Media Council that will examine emerging trends and technologies that are reshaping the future of media. Aimed at influencers and decision-makers, this discussion is vital for understanding how technology continues to revolutionize content creation and distribution.
Focus on Women in Cinema
Diversity in creativity receives a spotlight in the panel "Women in Film and Cinema," developed in partnership with the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC), Netflix, and the Dubai Films and Games Commission. This segment will illuminate the contributions of women in filmmaking, complemented by curated screenings that celebrate female narratives in cinema. Such initiatives underscore the importance of inclusivity in the evolving media landscape.
Day Two: Drama and Production
As the forum progresses to its second day, coinciding with the Arab Media Forum, another enriching session titled "Drama’s Success in the Digital Age" will draw key voices from the region’s drama production industry. Moderated by Sarah Dundarawy from Al Arabiya, this panel will delve into the challenges and triumphs of producing compelling drama content in today’s rapidly changing digital environment.
Revitalizing Arab Cinema
In collaboration with Olsberg SPI, the session "Future of TV and Cinema Production" will address the pressing need to rejuvenate the Arab entertainment sector. Esteemed speakers will focus on potential challenges and opportunities, highlighting the importance of cinema and drama as cultural soft power assets for the region.
A particularly poignant session titled "Emirati Film Industry … Where is it Heading?" will feature insightful perspectives from notable Emirati filmmakers. This dialogue is crucial for understanding the unique trajectory of Emirati cinema and its aspiring future.
The Finale: Star Power and Social Media Influence
The final day of the forum coincides with the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit, featuring Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan in conversation with media personality Anas Bukhash. This cross-industry collaboration emphasizes the synergy between traditional media and social platforms, showcasing the evolving landscape of audience engagement.
Additionally, actress Laila Abdallah will lead a session titled "Beyond the Truth in Social Media," exploring the complexities of representation and authenticity in digital narratives. Following this discussion, a renowned panel of Arab stars, including Ahmed El Sakka and George Khabbaz, will share their experiences and insights, moderated by television host Neshan Der Haroutyounian.
Navigating Film Festivals and Future Opportunities
Rounding off the forum is the session "Your Film at a Festival … What’s Next," where Dominique Unsworth, CEO of Resource Productions, will discuss how participation in film festivals contributes to elevating cinematic quality and visibility. This conversation is crucial for filmmakers eager to navigate the competitive landscape of film festivals.
Finally, the forum will cover the "Video Game Industry: Between the Public and Private Sector," featuring leaders like Rob Otten and Faisal Kazim, moderated by expert Rashid Al Awar. This session will explore the collaborative efforts required to bolster the gaming industry, identifying pathways for growth in both sectors.
The Film and Gaming Forum represents a pivotal moment for Dubai, showcasing not just the region’s cultural prowess but also its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in film and gaming on a global stage.
