Business & Investments

UAE strengthens position as global media hub with 10,000 companies and 55,000 professionals

The UAE has reinforced its position as one of the world's leading media hubs, with more than 10,000 media companies and over 55,000 media professionals and creative talents operating across the country, according to new figures released by the National Media Office.

The latest data was highlighted by Abdulla Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office, who said the UAE has evolved into a global centre for media, content creation, and innovation, supported by a strong regulatory environment, advanced infrastructure, and strategic geographic location.

One of the report's key findings revealed that 60% of Fortune 500 media companies have established their regional headquarters in the UAE, reflecting the country's growing importance as a destination for international media businesses and investment.

In a statement shared on X, Al Hamed said the figures demonstrate the strength of the UAE's media ecosystem and its continued global leadership.

"These figures encapsulate a media landscape that the nation has built with confidence and now leads with unwavering excellence."

The country's entertainment industry also recorded strong growth during 2025. According to the data, the UAE generated Dh734 million in box office revenue, highlighting increasing demand for cinema and reinforcing its status as a preferred destination for international film productions.

The video gaming industry continued its rapid expansion, generating Dh2.7 billion in revenue during 2025. The sector has become one of the fastest-growing contributors to the country's creative economy, supported by increasing investment, global gaming companies, and local talent development.

Meanwhile, the publishing sector recorded significant growth, with nearly 1.2 million new books and publication titles produced during 2025, reflecting the UAE's continued investment in knowledge, literacy, and intellectual development.

Al Hamed described the UAE as a global centre where innovation, creativity, and storytelling contribute to economic growth and international influence.

"The UAE is a vibrant global media hub, a capital of influence and content creation, and a centre of innovation where ideas are transformed into soft power and narratives into economic value that helps shape the future."

He attributed the sector's progress to the country's long-term leadership vision, which positions media as a key pillar of national development, investment, and the knowledge economy.

"These achievements reflect the vision of our wise leadership, which has positioned media as a fundamental pillar of the knowledge economy while accelerating investment in talent and advancing the sector toward an even more promising future."

The continued expansion of the UAE's media sector has strengthened its ability to attract international investment, global media organizations, and creative professionals, further reinforcing its reputation as a leading destination for media innovation, content creation, and the creative economy.