co-located with 
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AGENDA
Tuesday, 13 May 2025
10:55 - 11:00
Opening Remarks
11:00 -
11:10
Governmental keynote
Government as growth catalysts: Regulating and accelerating media-tech innovation
This session is designed to equip policymakers with strategies to foster competitive yet
responsible media ecosystems, addressing content sovereignty, emerging tech adoption, and
infrastructure investments.
- Balancing innovation with content integrity in rapidly evolving media landscapes
- Policy frameworks enabling next-gen satellite tech and 5G broadcasting infrastructure
- Public-private models driving MENA's $23.6B media-tech sector growth (Statista 2025 projection)
- Case Study: UAE's national programme for digital transformation impact on broadcast digitisation
11:10 – 11:30
Dual discussion
Market outlook: The future of media & entertainment in MEASA
The global AI market in media and entertainment is projected to grow from USD 15.11
billion in 2024 to USD 195.7 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 27.6%
This session will explore the rapidly evolving landscape of media and
entertainment in the MEASA region, with a focus on the
transformative impact of artificial intelligence. This session will delve
into how AI is reshaping content creation, distribution, and
consumption across various platforms.
- AI personalisation: How can you boost viewer engagement by up to 60% in MEASA?
- ML content recommendations: How can you reduce streaming churn by 25-30% in emerging markets?
- AI in production: 3 keys to cut post-production time by 40% in MEASA
11:30 – 12:00
Panel -The evolving media landscape
The power shift: Who controls the narrative now?
Machine Learning (45.2% of AI market) now drives streaming projected to dominate 65% of
global video consumption by 2025.
This integrated session will dissect how AI and streaming dominance
are reshaping media control, content discovery, and global market
strategies.
We will uncover:
- How ML-driven personalisation (recommendations, bundling) and rich media tools (interactive previews, dynamic thumbnails) now dictate 30%+ of content discovery, redefining platform competition
- How you can balance global scale with hyper-local relevance: Strategies for traditional media to pivot (e.g., hybrid AVOD-SVOD models) and streaming services to win in fragmented markets.
- Cloud + edge computing’s role in latency reduction (sub-2s load times) and AI’s impact on real-time content creation (synthetic media, automated editing)
- Who owns viewer attention? Decoding the shift from legacy broadcasters to algorithm-curated ecosystems and creator-driven platforms
12:00 – 12:20
Panel - News
News reimagined: Merging TV’s authority with social media’s velocity
"Master the algorithm without sacrificing truth – where 30-second updates meet 30-minute
investigations.”
This session explores how traditional broadcasters, and digital
platforms can synergise to engage Gen Z audiences (67% of
MENA’s population) while maintaining journalistic integrity.
With 76% of MENA youth distrusting traditional news but consuming
83% of content via TikTok, experts will decode strategies to balance
brevity, trust, and revenue in today’s fragmented media landscape.
This session will show you how you can:
- Adapt TV investigations for short form: Learn to condense 30-minute reports into 60-second clips (like Al Jazeera’s viral series) using AI tools that slash production time 50% while retaining depth
- Combat misinformation with AI: Deploy AFP’s 500k+/day video scans (94% accuracy) and Sky News’ AR overlays (+35% credibility) to build trust in a distrustful Gen Z (76% MENA distrust traditional news)
- Monetise cross-platform: Blend TikTok shoppable ads (44% purchase rate) with TV sponsorships to counter MENA’s 8% annual ad decline, mirroring CNBC Arabia’s revenue-adaptive model.
12:20 – 13:00
Panel - The content marketplace
Content is king, but distribution is queen: Navigating the MENA
marketplace
Global spending on local content production expected to reach $240 billion by 2025, up
from $188 billion in 2019.
This session will discuss the forces shaping the global content
market and how creators can thrive.
- Regional content surge: Explore the drivers behind the global popularity of regional cinema, including cultural authenticity, streaming platform investments, and audience demand for diverse storytelling
- Hollywood's adaptation: Analyse how the U.S. entertainment industry is navigating the shift towards global content, including international collaborations, localisation strategies, and the impact on traditional production models
- Creator empowerment: Examine new models for measuring content ROI, increasing transparency in revenue sharing, and leveraging data analytics to empower creators in the evolving digital marketplace
13:00 – 13:20
Quick chat
The $500M seasonal drama Boom – Trends, business, and global reach
Ramadan is the peak season for TV viewership in the MENA region, driving an industry worth
over $500 million in content production, licensing, and advertising.
This session explores the business of seasonal dramas, shedding light on key production
trends, content acquisition strategies, and distribution models across the Arab world and
beyond.
We will examine how major production houses, funding entities, broadcasters, and streaming
platforms fuel this seasonal boom. Who are the biggest players shaping the seasonal
content market? How do networks and platforms like Shahid, Yango, STC, Tod and other
regional broadcasters compete for top-rated series? How can international distributors and
investors also benefit from expanding the reach of seasonal productions and maximising
ROI?
Beyond entertainment, this surge in content creation stimulates multiple industries—from
local economies and talent employment to advertising and digital transformation. Join us
for an in-depth discussion on how drama series continue to transcend borders, drive
revenue, and shape the future of content in the Arab world.
13:20 – 14:00
Panel - Tech & innovation in entertainment
Entertainment's tech tonic: Innovation, integration, and immersion
In 2025, AI-powered content recommendations are expected to drive 75% of what consumers
watch on streaming platforms.
This session will explore the latest technological advancements transforming the
entertainment industry.
- Harnessing AI and the cloud: How to leverage AI for personalised content experiences and cloud technology for scalable, flexible streaming
- Optimising delivery and security: How to enhance streaming quality through CDN optimisation and implement advanced security measures against emerging threats
- Innovating with edge and integration: How to utilise edge computing for interactive entertainment and explore super-app concepts in OTT platforms
14:00 – 14:20
AMA
AMA WITH BLESSY – pending final confirmation
14:20 – 15:00
Panel - Best practices in content creation
Content alchemy: Transforming ideas into multi-platform gold
73% of consumers expect consistent brand experiences across all platforms.
This session will explore cutting-edge techniques for content creation in the
multi-platform era.
- Cross-platform adaptation: How to seamlessly tailor content for TV, web, and social media while maintaining quality and brand consistency
- Data-driven personalisation: How to leverage AI and data for content personalisation without compromising creative integrity
- Sustainable and global creation: How to implement eco-friendly content production practices and effectively manage diverse, cross-cultural creative teams
15:00 – 15:45
Panel
The business of cinema: Trends, challenges and opportunities
This session will explore the evolving landscape of the cinema business, covering key
trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the industry.
We will discuss revenue models, audience engagement strategies, and the impact of digital
transformation on theatrical distribution and content consumption.
- Evolving global cinema trends: Recovery, audience behaviour shifts, and the rise of premium experiences
- Streaming vs. theatrical release: Strategies for coexistence and maximising revenue
- Emerging revenue models: From ticketing innovations to in-theatre advertising and event cinema
- Technology’s role in cinema: AI, immersive experiences (VR/AR), and next-gen projection technologies
- Global and regional market insights: Opportunities for growth in the MENA region and beyond
16:00 – 16:05
Closing remarks
Wednesday, 14 May 2025
11:00 - 11:10
Opening comments
11:10 – 11:50
Panel - Digital transformation in media
Digital transformation: Navigating disruption, competition and growth
Digital ad spending in the MENA region is projected to reach $5.7 billion by 2024, with a
CAGR of 11.3%
This session will navigate the digital transformation of the media industry and its impact
on advertising and competition.
- Advertising evolution: How to optimise digital ad spend and leverage social platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube for maximum impact in the evolving media consumption landscape
- Competitive strategies: How regional streaming players can differentiate and compete with global giants, with a focus on SVOD market trends in the GCC and beyond
- Data-driven growth: How to effectively utilise viewer data and AI for content acquisition, audience growth, and operational efficiency, while navigating regulatory considerations in the GCC
11:50 - 12:00
Keynote
Blocked for NHK
12:00 - 12:15
Keynote - Connected TV (CTV)
The CTV shift: Ads, audiences and impact
CTV ad spending is projected to reach $38.83 billion globally by 2026, growing at a CAGR
of 14.1%
Advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms allow broadcasters to gather insights
from vast amounts of data, including viewing preferences and location.
This session will discuss the rise of the Connected TV and its implications for
advertising and viewing habits.
- How to leverage advanced analytics and machine learning to effectively target CTV audiences with relevant ads based on viewing preferences and location data
- How to overcome challenges in measurement and attribution within the fragmented CTV landscape, developing unified metrics for cross-platform campaigns
- How to create engaging CTV advertising experiences that enhance rather than disrupt viewing, and how to capitalise on the resurgence of shared viewing in the living room
12:15 - 12:45
Panel - Sports broadcasting innovations
Next-gen sports broadcasting: Innovation, engagement, and the future of fan experience
MENA sports media rights market expected to reach $6.5 billion by 2027, growing at 9.2%
CAGR
This session explores the future of sports media, focusing on how emerging technologies
and streaming platforms are transforming fan engagement, with a spotlight on the MENA
region.
- Next-Gen production and monetisation: How to enhance live sports coverage and monetise rights effectively through OTT platforms in MENA
- AI-powered fan engagement: How to leverage AI and interactive features to revolutionise fan experiences, with a focus on Gen Z preferences
- Immersive sports ecosystems: How to create profitable, immersive sports experiences using VR/AR while balancing stakeholder interests
12:45 - 13:00
Fireside chat
Enhancing safety in film and TV production in the Middle East
This session examines the critical role of health and safety in film and TV production,
with a focus on improving industry standards in the Middle East.
- Safety protocols in live production – Best practices for ensuring the well-being of cast and crew in high-pressure production environments, from set construction to live-action sequences.
- Risk management for high-risk scenes – Strategies for mitigating hazards in stunts, pyrotechnics, and challenging filming locations, ensuring compliance with international safety standards.
- Emergency preparedness and medical support – Developing robust response plans, on-set safety support, and crisis management strategies to safeguard production teams.
- Improving safety standards in the Middle East – Addressing regional challenges, implementing best practices, and fostering a stronger culture of safety in the growing film and TV industry.
13:00 - 13:30
Panel
Content exports and co-productions: Partnerships across borders
Cross-border co-productions are transforming the content industry, boosting local
economies, attracting investment, and expanding global reach. This session explores how
co-productions differ abroad vs. in MENA, covering financing models, production
incentives, and distribution strategies.
What do international co-producers expect, and what opportunities and challenges do they
face in MENA markets? Experts will discuss funding gaps, regulatory hurdles, creative
alignment, and success stories. Gain insights from leading producers, networks, and
investors on fostering impactful partnerships in today’s evolving content landscape.
13:30 - 14:00
Kids content
Innovations in children's entertainment: IPs that transcend borders
With one of the highest child populations in the world, children under the age of 14 make
up approximately 30% of the total population in the MENA region. However, 80% of
children's content shown on local screens is imported and dubbed, highlighting a
significant gap in providing authentic, locally produced entertainment for this age group.
This session brings together insights from international organizations serving Arab
children to explore the current landscape of the children's entertainment market in the
MENA region. Speakers will discuss the vast potential for exporting culturally rich,
family-oriented content from the region to the global stage.
The discussion will also cover building a sustainable business model for the children's
entertainment industry by leveraging complementary sectors such as merchandise, toys,
theme parks, and educational facilities. Through these strategies, the region can both
meet the needs of its children and establish itself as a global leader in family
entertainment.
14:00 - 14:30
Panel
Film commissions and their role in media production
In 2024, film commissions worldwide helped generate over $50 billion in direct spending on
film and TV production.
This session brings together leading film commissions to discuss their vital role in
supporting and attracting media production.
We'll explore the incentives, resources, and infrastructure they provide, as well as their
impact on local talent development and economic growth within the region.
- Unlock incentives: Understand the financial and logistical support film commissions offer to productions
- Navigate resources: Learn about available locations, facilities, and local talent pools
- Foster collaboration: Discover opportunities for partnerships and co-productions with the region
14:30 - 15:00
Panel
UAE: The rising star of global filmmaking
This session will explore how the UAE can become a premier filming block for international
content. Discover how government initiatives, public-private partnerships, and
collaborative efforts between commissions and studios are transforming the UAE into a
global filmmaking hub.
Together we will examine:
- Government support and incentives: Explore Abu Dhabi's 50% film rebate program and Dubai's regulatory refinements to attract major international productions, enhancing the UAE's appeal as a filming destination
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Discuss how collaborations between government agencies, private studios, and international production companies can leverage resources, expertise, and infrastructure to create world-class content
- Commission and studio collaboration: Highlight the role of entities like the Abu Dhabi Film Commission and Dubai Films and Games Commission in facilitating streamlined processes, talent development, and infrastructure support to ensure a seamless filming experience
15:30 - 15:45
Panel - SAE Institute
Mastering the future of post-production: Cutting-edge editing, VFX and colour grading
The global post-production market is projected to reach $45.4 billion by 2030, growing at
a CAGR of 6.2%
Step into the cutting edge of post-production with this hands-on masterclass. Discover the
latest innovations in editing, VFX, and color grading, and learn how to optimize your
workflow using industry-leading tools. Gain practical insights from top professionals and
explore advanced techniques that elevate your creative projects to the next level.
- Next-Gen toolset: Hands-on experience with industry-leading post-production software, focusing on advanced editing, VFX, and colour grading techniques
- Workflow optimisation: Strategies to enhance efficiency without sacrificing quality, including AI-assisted tools and cloud-based collaboration
- Future-proofing skills: Insights into emerging technologies and trends shaping the future of post-production
15:45 - 15:50
Closing remarks
Thursday,15 May 2025
11:10 - 13:10
Masterclass
- Crafting compelling narratives across platforms
Explore seamless narrative creation across TV, streaming, social
media, and live events, includes powerful case studies from
successful transmedia storytelling.
15:10 – 17:10
Masterclass
- Advanced post-production techniques
Focus on innovations in editing, VFX, and colour grading. This
masterclass will focus on hands-on demos of industry-standard tools
for workflow efficiency.
