Source : WAM
The Dubai Film Development Committee, a newly established body under the Dubai Media Council aimed at supporting the growth of the film sector, held its inaugural meeting at the Council’s headquarters to review its mandate, discuss its operational framework, and outline strategic priorities to support the growth and sustainability of Dubai’s film industry.
The meeting focused on strengthening Dubai’s film ecosystem, leveraging the emirate’s existing strengths while addressing practical industry needs across production, talent development, and collaboration.
Nehal Badri, Secretary General of the Dubai Media Council, stated that the Dubai Film Development Committee will play a key role in realising the leadership’s vision for Dubai’s creative economy. She highlighted the Council’s strategy to enhance the media sector’s contribution to the knowledge economy, emphasizing creativity and innovation.
She noted that the film sector presents significant growth opportunities for Dubai’s media industry and that the committee will further bolster the emirate’s position as a leading global destination for media production and creativity. She stressed the importance of aligning policy, infrastructure, and industry requirements through a coordinated, sector-wide approach. Film now occupies a central role in Dubai’s media landscape, contributing to economic diversification, talent development, cross-border collaboration, and the emirate’s positioning within the global creative economy.
She also highlighted Dubai’s competitive advantages as a production hub, including advanced digital infrastructure, a flexible regulatory environment, efficient logistics, and a strategic location connecting regional and global markets. These strengths support scaling film production, long-term sector growth, and engagement with regional and international partners.
Issam Kazim, Chairman of the Dubai Film Development Committee, emphasised the committee’s focus on translating strategy into tangible results, with early priorities including setting clear directions, nurturing local talent, and enhancing collaboration between public and private stakeholders.
“The committee will focus on how its mandate is delivered across key areas, including developing specialised training, streamlining production and filming processes, in addition to strengthening cooperation and partnerships with local and international production companies, as well as with government entities and leading filmmakers, both individuals and institutions. The committee’s initiatives will serve to complement the growth of an economy driven by creativity and technology,” he further said.
The Dubai Film Development Committee was established under Dubai Media Council Resolution No. (8) of 2025, issued by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, in November 2025. The committee’s mandate includes supporting the industry with tailored services, facilities, and coordination with stakeholders, working with studios, facilitating specialised training programmes, and creating opportunities for emerging talent.
During the meeting, Hesham Al Olama, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Film Development Committee, emphasised the importance of the Dubai Media Council’s diverse selection of committee members to achieve the strategic objectives for the sector. He noted that the synergy among represented entities will foster a thriving ecosystem, enhance Dubai’s appeal as a premier destination for global filmmakers, attract investment, and expand the sector’s prospects for growth and sustainable progress.
The meeting was attended by committee members Shaima Al Suwaidi (Dubai Culture and Arts Authority), Bader Anwahi (Dubai Municipality), Abdullah Al Ali (Roads and Transport Authority), Mansoor Al Malik (Dubai Customs), Ahmad Balqaizi (Dubai Civil Aviation Authority), Colonel Eng. Saud Faisal Al Rumaithi (Dubai Police), Colonel Ali Al Hammadi (General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs), and Maryam Al Mehairi (Emirates Airline).
