Why CABSAT 2025 will be a game-changer for the media industry

The media and entertainment industry is on the verge of significant transformation, and the upcoming CABSAT 2025 promises to be more impactful, providing a dynamic platform for both regional and global players. As the MEASA region’s premier media and tech event, CABSAT is set to mark its 31st edition with an array of groundbreaking innovations and exceptional opportunities for collaboration. With around 18,900 visitors and over 450 exhibitors from more than 120 countries, this highly anticipated event is shaping up to be an unparalleled platform for networking, exploring trends, and charting the future of the industry.

Here’s why the event, which takes place from 13 – 15 May at DWTC, is a must-attend for members of the media industry:

The Ultimate Networking Platform for Media Professionals

CABSAT has long been recognised for bringing together industry professionals, decision-makers, and creative minds from around the world. It provides a prime opportunity to connect with influential companies and individuals, fostering meaningful partnerships and collaborations that will define the future of the media industry.

For this exciting edition, CABSAT is attracting new exhibitors alongside international pavilions from prominent countries such as China, France, and Germany, showcasing the latest in cutting-edge technologies and solutions. These global collaborations will pave the way for new business avenues and innovations that will shape the future of content creation, distribution, and consumption across the world.

See a full list of 2025 exhibitors here

Dubai Studio City Tour: A Peek Behind-the-Scenes Experience

Ever wanted to see how movies are made? One returning highlight of CABSAT is the Dubai Studio City Tour, offering attendees an exclusive opportunity to experience one of the largest production and post-production facilities in the MENA region. Known for its world-class infrastructure, the studio features boutique studios, a five-meter-deep water tank studio, state-of-the-art green screen equipment, and even elephant doors, making it a hub for both regional and international production houses. This behind-the-scenes experience allows visitors to see firsthand how major films were brought to life and why Dubai is a major centre for regional production.

Co-Production Salon: Driving Arabic Content Investment

Also returning for 2025 at CABSAT is the Co-Production Salon, which will address the increasing demand for locally generated Arabic content. This fourth edition of the Co-Production Salon boasts an impressive 90% re-participation rate, highlighting its reputation as a must-attend event for industry leaders. This premier platform fosters collaborations between creators, investors, and industry experts, offering attendees the chance to form valuable partnerships and explore new opportunities in the thriving MENA content market.

The salon will feature multiple engaging activities, including

• Co-Production Wall of Fame : Showcasing top regional and global partnerships.
• CEO Networking Power Hour : An exclusive invite-only session for 30 executives to connect and discuss key collaboration opportunities.
• Future Content Trends : A deep dive into emerging MENA projects that are set to transform the industry.
• Advanced Match-Making Tool : An innovative tool that facilitates connections among key players, ensuring that no valuable opportunity is missed.

Focused Panel Discussions and Sessions

CABSAT 2025 has a carefully curated agenda that includes panels and fireside chats, setting forth collaborative opportunities. These sessions, led by industry thought leaders, executives, and tech innovators, will cover a wide range of topics. These include – leveraging government as a catalyst for growth through media-tech regulation and innovation, the future of media and entertainment in MEASA, advancements and trends in the content marketplace, technology and innovation in entertainment, and the UAE’s emergence as a global filmmaking hub.

Demonstrations and Showcasing of Up-and-coming Media Technology

CABSAT 2025 is set to revolutionise the media and broadcast industry by showcasing cutting-edge technologies that will redefine content creation, delivery, and consumption.

Among the exhibitors is ARET, a leader in custom broadcast solutions, which creates state-of-the-art OB Vans (pictured above)—including its latest delivery to Sharjah and an upcoming project for Abu Dhabi Media. With 17 years of experience at CABSAT, ARET has built strong partnerships with industry giants like RAI, Ross Video, and Lawo, collaborating on high-profile projects, studios, and mobile production units.

This year, ARET will once again connect with key industry players to discuss custom OB Vans, studios, and future innovations—reinforcing why CABSAT 2025 is a must-attend event for media professionals.

CABSAT 2025 Will Showcase The Future Of The Media Industry

CABSAT 2025 is more than just an event. It is an innovation hub where the future of the media industry is being reshaped. Beyond just a platform for witnessing innovation, CABSAT serves as the place where the industry’s next big ideas, collaborations, and partnerships are born. The combination of cutting-edge technologies, exclusive content-focused sessions, and strategic networking opportunities ensures that CABSAT will continue to be a driving force in the global media ecosystem for years to come.