These are the live updates from IMS Dubai happening at W Mina Seyahi on November 14 & 15, 2024. Bookmark this page for our rolling updates.
As the music industry continues to evolve globally, the MENA region stands at the forefront of transformative growth and cultural influence. Over the next two days, key players from various sectors will share insights on the industry’s challenges, opportunities, and vision for the future. Follow along for live updates on each session and discover what’s shaping the music landscape across the region.
IMS Dubai: Day 1
Navigating the Music Industry in the MENA Region
Influential figures from Live Nation, YouTube, Factory People, MDLBEAST, CAA, and Billboard Arabia recently discussed the updates in the MENA music industry’s evolution at IMS Dubai. The panel explored expanding venues, emerging opportunities, and MENA’s growing global influence.
A Look Back and Moving Forward
James Craven, President of Live Nation Middle East, recalled booking shows in MENA during 2009 and 2010 when purposeful venues were limited. The Abu Dhabi team often paid premium fees for single shows, facing many challenges. Today, with new venues emerging in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, along with additions in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, the landscape has transformed. Craven expressed his dedication to the region, stating, “I will stay in the region; I’m not going anywhere.” He predicted a rise in purpose-built venues across MENA over the next five years.
Saudi Arabia’s Transformation in the Music Scene
Bader Assery, Senior Project Manager at MDLBEAST, shared a similar story of high artist fees in Saudi Arabia in 2009. Today, Saudi Arabia’s music scene has changed drastically with events like XP Music Futures and venues such as East House, Unstable, and NEOM beach club—Saudi’s first. These advancements represent the region’s progress toward a sustainable music ecosystem.
A Growing Appeal for Alternative Sounds
Wassim Bou Malham, Cofounder of Factory People & Gharam Electric, discussed MENA’s shift toward alternative music scenes. In Dubai, SOLE DXB has diversified its lineup, embracing more alternative sounds than in previous years. Wassim predicted that MENA will see more festivals and alternative events in the next 8-10 years. He believes the region’s audience seeks unique experiences.
MENA’s Rising Significance in Tour Circuits
Maria May from CAA discussed MENA’s growing importance for international artists. Five years ago, MENA wasn’t a standard tour stop for artists. Today, however, MENA has become a regular stop on tour maps. “It has become a stop on the map,” May explained. Planning cycles now often include MENA, marking its rise as a major destination.
Endless Possibilities Ahead
Maha ElNabawi, Billboard Arabia’s Managing Editor, moderated the panel, summarizing MENA’s potential. “In Saudi, there’s only nothing but possibilities,” she stated.
The MENA music scene offers more than a place to dance. It has become a vibrant space of potential and growth.
Evolution of the MENA Music Industry
IMS DUBAI LIVE UPDATES: The MENA music industry is transforming quickly, driven by cultural shifts and tourism. Panelists highlighted how artists and industry leaders are building a sustainable, interconnected future for music in the region.
Dubai: From Performance Stop to Creative Hub
Dubai’s role as a cultural and economic powerhouse stood out. Known for its mix of mainstream and underground music, the city connects global and local artists, fostering sustainable growth. With strong infrastructure and arts support, Dubai has become more than a destination for performances; it’s a thriving base for a creative community.
Building a Lasting Creative Ecosystem
Panelists explored the idea of building a lasting ecosystem for creatives. No longer seen as a lucrative stop, Dubai is now a base where artists grow and engage deeply with audiences. With active tourism board support, Dubai is attracting artists eager to leave their mark, ensuring the city’s promising future.
Meeting Modern Audiences’ Expectations
Today’s fans crave authentic, behind-the-scenes content that brings them closer to artists. Audiences want performers who openly express themselves and share in a communal experience, enhancing fan loyalty and engagement.
Saudi Arabia’s Experimental Arts Landscape
In Saudi Arabia, government support has spurred collaboration across fashion and music, creating an experimental arts landscape. Saudi artists, ready to seize opportunities, are reshaping the country into a music destination, with women taking the lead to drive industry change from within.
Regional Collaboration Over Competition
The session concluded by discussing collaboration among MENA countries. Rather than competing, the region aims to form a supportive network that maximizes tour opportunities. Coordinated multi-city tours—such as three shows across three cities in three days—could enhance MENA’s music scene, making it more accessible globally.
Egypt’s Global Pop Influence
Egypt’s pop scene has long been a regional leader. Now, Egyptian artists are expanding globally, contributing to MENA’s influence in the international music landscape.
This panel underscored MENA’s dynamic, evolving music industry, highlighting its potential for growth and global impact as it makes its mark on the world stage.
Culture Tourism: Ibiza and Dubai Duality
IMS DUBAI LIVE UPDATES: As Ibiza icons turn to Dubai for winter residencies, panelists examined the cultural exchange between these two global party hubs. Both share a passion for innovation and excellence in entertainment, despite their unique flavors.
Dubai’s Entertainment Landscape: More Vegas Than Ibiza
Dubai’s nightlife offers a blend of luxury and variety, often likened to Las Vegas more than Ibiza. One speaker remarked, “There’s everything, and there’s something for everyone,” capturing Dubai’s wide appeal. Locals enjoy a lifestyle of high-caliber entertainment, feeling almost “spoiled” with options at their doorstep.
Distinct Guest List Dynamics
Dubai’s nightlife dynamics differ from Ibiza, with a strong reliance on guest lists. Although the list numbers can be high, attendance doesn’t always match. While Friday and Saturday nights attract crowds, the reliance on guest lists remains a notable trend.
Practical Tips for International Artists Moving to Dubai
Panelists offered guidance for artists eyeing Dubai as a base, citing the city’s travel-friendly location. Artists like CamelPhat already call Dubai home. Dubai is seen as ideal for multi-week residencies, and cross-promotions, setting the stage for Ibiza-style engagements.
A Duality in Cultural Tourism
Ibiza’s bohemian spirit contrasts with Dubai’s polished energy. This cultural duality between the two creates opportunities for cross-pollination. As Dubai becomes a winter retreat for Ibiza-style experiences, new collaborative avenues emerge, blending the essence of both worlds.
Growth of Labels and Streaming in the MENA Region
IMS DUBAI LIVE UPDATES: As the MENA music industry expands, panelists explored both the promise and challenges of local and international investment. Saudi Arabia leads regional growth with subsidized initiatives like MDLBEAST, supporting homegrown artists and events. However, many panelists stressed the need for more international partners willing to invest and share risks in this emerging market.
Gen Z and Global Collaboration
With Gen Z embracing music as a shared cultural celebration, collaborations have become essential. Panelists discussed how music transcends language, evolving into an experience that celebrates MENA’s heritage globally. Collaborative projects, like Keinemusik’s recent work with Amr Diab, highlight how partnerships bridge regional sounds with global audiences, showcasing MENA’s authenticity.
Normalizing Arabic and Regional Sounds in Global Music
MDLBEAST emphasized its commitment to integrating Arabic language and regional elements into mainstream music, a process still facing challenges. Educating artists on the industry’s global landscape and providing data-driven insights can empower MENA’s new generation. This knowledge could lead to more informed decisions, with long-term ambitions to see Arabic music in global charts within 5 to 10 years.
Fostering Independent Labels for a Thriving Music Community
MDLBEAST presented a vision focused on nurturing local independent artists, encouraging “bedroom producers” to become label owners. Establishing a label is manageable, but expanding internationally remains financially demanding. Community-rooted labels that emphasize consistency can fuel competition and foster a vibrant music ecosystem across the region.
A Future of Regional Music on the Global Stage
Panelists expressed optimism about MENA’s musical future, envisioning a landscape rich in diversity and talent. They anticipate a collaborative scene where regional music gains international recognition, driven by a community-focused approach to music production and distribution.
This discussion underscored the industry’s readiness for global engagement and a self-sustaining, community-driven music ecosystem, with MENA poised for a prominent place on the world stage.
