During the Arab Media Summit 2025, Nahla Badri, the Secretary-General of the Dubai Media Council, highlighted that the film industry alone contributed over $136 billion to the global GDP in 2023, while the revenue from the video game industry soared to approximately $196 billion.
She pointed out that these sectors have evolved beyond mere entertainment; they have become critical components of urban economies and expressions of creativity and identity. Currently, more than 3.2 billion individuals worldwide engage in video gaming, many of whom are young people. Some have begun coding and innovating in this field before even reaching the age of ten, underscoring a substantial creative potential that demands investment.
Badri emphasized that Dubai, with its advanced capabilities and state-of-the-art infrastructure—from global production studios to flexible free zones—is well-positioned to support these industries. However, she asserted that genuine growth in these sectors can only be achieved through partnerships with global companies such as Amazon, Netflix, and Disney, as well as collaborations with local and international academic institutions. Empowering talents and enhancing their skills is a top priority.
Growth
She further announced the establishment of the newly formed ‘Dubai Office for Film and Electronic Games,’ which will serve as the regulatory authority to foster the growth of the film and gaming sectors and boost their contribution to Dubai’s economy.
New Avenues
Referencing a statement by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, she noted, “Cities, like people, have a soul, a heart, and a story. A compelling narrative is what builds their glory. We believe films and video games are the new mediums for telling Dubai’s story to the world.”
She added, “Imagine a video game inspired by the historic neighborhoods of Dubai or a short film that reaches global festivals, sharing an Emirati tale. These are not just aspirations; they are upcoming realities, akin to what Seoul achieved with the film ‘Parasite,’ which not only told a story but also conveyed a complete identity and culture to the world.”
Badri announced that the Film and Electronic Games Forum will become an annual event providing a platform for creators, investors, and innovators from around the globe. “Today, we are not merely celebrating two industries; we are embracing a new era where cities become living stories told in visuals and sounds, in a language understood by all.”