The UAE’s vibrant cinema sector achieved remarkable revenue of AED800 million ($217.8 million) in 2024, driven by increasing audience engagement, reinforcing the nation’s status as a crucial player in the film industry and a top destination for global film premieres.
With 1,262 films showcased and 15 million tickets sold, UAE cinemas provided a compelling cinematic experience, enhancing public trust in the nation’s dedication to high-quality entertainment and solidifying its role as a leader in presenting innovative film productions.
At the same time, the e-gaming sector saw notable growth, generating over AED1.5 billion ($408.4 million) in revenue in 2024, propelled by a rising demand for video games. To ensure that content is suitable for various age groups, 375 video games were reviewed and classified according to the UAE’s established age-rating system, adhering to media regulations.
Factors driving growth in cinema and e-gaming
Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, secretary-general of the UAE Media Council, stated that these accomplishments reflect the Council’s commitment to enhancing the competitiveness of the film and e-gaming industries, reinforcing their significance in the media and entertainment landscape by developing regulatory frameworks and cultivating a business-friendly environment for the growth of entertainment content in the UAE.
He elaborated that several essential factors contributed to this growth, with the diversity of cinematic content being paramount. “UAE cinemas offer films in more than twenty global languages, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity and affirming its status as a global destination for the film industry.”
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Strategic positioning of UAE in global cinema
Enhancing its appeal, the UAE capitalized on the early release of global film productions, strategically positioning itself as a market where audiences can experience international films concurrently with major global markets.
Al Shehhi emphasized the UAE Media Council’s commitment to regulating media content and assigning appropriate age classifications to ensure films and video games align with various age demographics. This enables families to select suitable content for their children and boosts public confidence in the quality of cinematic and gaming experiences throughout the country.
Infrastructure supporting media industry growth
Furthermore, Al Shehhi added that the UAE’s integrated services and ease of doing business have fortified its position as a prominent hub for the media industry. The nation boasts advanced infrastructure, streamlined processes, and a flexible regulatory framework that supports investments in the film and gaming sectors.
The UAE Media Council continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the competitiveness of the film and gaming sectors by updating policies and regulations, initiating strategic partnerships, and nurturing a supportive environment for talent and creativity. This drives growth in both sectors and solidifies the UAE’s standing as one of the world’s foremost hubs for media content creation.
