Emirati Media Forum Explores Future Of Media Legislation And Impact Of Film And E-Gaming

The Emirati Media Forum's 10th edition, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, explored future media policies and the influence of film and gaming on the UAE's media landscape. Organised by the Dubai Press Club at the Museum of the Future, it gathered key figures from the UAE media sector.

During a session titled "The Future of Media Legislation," Mohammed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, and Nehal Badri, Secretary-General of the Dubai Media Council, discussed media policies' role in fostering a flexible media ecosystem. The session was moderated by Hamed bin Karam, Editor-in-Chief of Al Bayan newspaper.

Mohammed Al Shehhi emphasised that the UAE Media Council guides national media through policies enhancing content and innovation while developing talent. He highlighted collaboration with local councils to ensure effective implementation respecting each emirate’s uniqueness, reinforcing the UAE’s status as a regional and global media hub.

Al Shehhi outlined a vision for a smart media ecosystem where locally adapted policies boost competitiveness and opportunities for Emirati talent. Legislation serves as a foundation balancing governance with creativity and national identity.

Nehal Badri noted that the Dubai Media Council was created to unify efforts amid rapid sector growth, with over 4,000 companies and many international influencers in Dubai. She mentioned strategic initiatives like Dubai Media City and Dubai Press Club as part of this focus.

Badri stressed that media is both a communication tool and an economic sector with potential to exceed 2.5% of GDP. Legislation aims to foster talent, safeguard national identity, and support high-growth sectors like film and gaming contributing over US$400 billion globally.

Film and Gaming's Impact on Media

A panel titled ‘The Impact of Film and E-Gaming on the Future of Media’ featured Khalfan Belhoul from Dubai Future Foundation and Issam Kazim from DCTCM. Moderated by Abdullatif Alsayegh from Alsayegh Media, they discussed cinema and e-gaming as creative economy pillars offering investment opportunities.

Khalfan Belhoul highlighted AI's role in advancing media strategies while Issam Kazim detailed efforts to promote Dubai globally through films and games. They agreed on building an innovative media ecosystem balancing creativity with governance.

The forum underscored clear legislation's importance in creating opportunities for talent while fostering a sustainable media environment. Panellists concurred that UAE regulations must balance innovation with responsibility while preserving Emirati identity amidst global openness.

With inputs from WAM