Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, chaired the Council's first meeting of 2026 at Dubai Media. The meeting reviewed Dubai Media's strategy and future plans to strengthen Dubai's position as a global center for media, the creative economy, and content production. During the meeting, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed approved the launch of Dubai+, a new digital platform offering media content for family members, reflecting evolving digital consumption trends and the growth of Dubai's media sector.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dubai+ embodies Dubai Media's approach to building an integrated digital media ecosystem. It offers a broad selection of local, Arab, and international series and films, supporting Dubai's role as a regional hub for creative content production and distribution. The meeting also reviewed plans to enhance local production capabilities and promote cinema as an art form and cultural expression. Samr Al Marzooqi, Director of Films and Production at the Dubai Media Council, outlined initiatives to support the film sector through programs that invest in creative and economic growth, presenting offerings for all audiences and showcasing Emirati and international talent.
The Council also reviewed the UAE-Kuwait Media Celebration organized by the Dubai Press Club under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Building on historical ties between the UAE and Kuwait, the event aims to reinforce media's role in strengthening Arab cultural and media cooperation. On the sidelines of the meeting, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed reviewed the latest external broadcast technologies used by Dubai Media and its partners, featuring systems introduced for the first time in the Middle East.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed emphasized further developing Dubai's media sector, focusing on investing in talent, empowering youth, leveraging technology and AI, and attracting specialized investment. 'We believe media is a strategic force that shapes awareness, supports development, and builds trust. Our approach is rooted in driving innovation, advancing skills and capabilities, and strengthening partnerships that turn ideas into real impact,' His Highness said. 'The launch of Dubai+, combined with the rapid development of our media ecosystem and sustained support for film and creative industries, is set to strengthen Dubai's position at the forefront of global digital media and the creative economy,' he added.
Mona Al Marri emphasized the Council's commitment to turning strategic objectives into tangible results through clear governance, measurable performance indicators, and enhanced regulatory frameworks for the media sector. 'We will closely monitor and evaluate the progress of strategic initiatives to ensure swift implementation and measurable positive outcomes across the sector,' Al Marri said. Nehal Badri noted the Council's efforts to strengthen Dubai's media ecosystem by encouraging private sector participation, accelerating content development, and building advanced storytelling capabilities. She highlighted efforts to improve operational performance, innovation, and audience reach, alongside investment in talent development, future-ready capabilities, and advanced production technologies to support long-term sector growth.