Dubai plans to double media sector’s GDP share to 3 percent by 2033
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
Dubai has announced a big plan to grow its media sector. The goal is to increase the media sector’s contribution to the city’s economy from 1.4 percent to 3 percent by the year 2033. This came under the directions of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.
Sheikh Ahmed led a meeting to review the council’s goals, new ideas and the work done so far. The meeting also looked at Dubai Media Incorporated’s digital transformation and how it fits with Dubai’s long-term development plans set by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Media as a growing force in Dubai’s economy
Sheikh Ahmed said the media sector has strong potential and can play a major role in Dubai’s future economy. He explained that both public and private media companies need to work together to reach the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
He added that the government will continue supporting media companies by giving them clear rules, good planning and a healthy work environment. This will help them grow and succeed.
Sheikh Ahmed also said the next phase requires more creativity and innovation. He stressed the need to invest in young Emirati talent so they can produce high-quality content that shows Dubai’s global leadership. He also highlighted the importance of speeding up digital transformation, as digital media helps raise community awareness and supports Dubai’s future vision.
Tracking progress and building global influence
During the meeting, Sheikh Ahmed reviewed the Dubai Media Council’s performance indicators for the period leading up to 2033. These indicators include increasing the sector’s GDP contribution, boosting media exports, attracting foreign investment and launching new committees for film and gaming.
Other goals include more local content production, stronger support for private media companies, new talent programs and improved communication strategies to help Dubai expand its global reach. The council also aims to grow the audience for content produced by the Government of Dubai Media Office.
Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, said that moving media regulation under the council, as part of Law No. 29 of 2024, has already had a positive impact. She explained that the council now has stronger powers to issue media permits, support professionalism and protect Emirati values. This helps Dubai stay a leader in media creativity and a top destination for talent.
Sheikh Ahmed approves DMI’s new digital strategy
The meeting also included the approval of Dubai Media Incorporated’s new digital strategy. DMI shared updates on its digital transformation, including the Awaan platform for TV content and plans to grow its audience locally and around the world.
The digital strategy focuses on better content, original shows, new technology partnerships and insights from global trends. DMI aims to build a strong digital identity with Emirati stories that appeal to youth, along with new formats like podcasts.
Members of the DMI Youth Council for Dubai Media also joined the meeting. The Youth Council, launched in October 2025, aims to support young Emiratis and help them become future media leaders as part of the National Youth Agenda 2031.
