Dubai is making a serious play for the global film and gaming industries, and for investors, this is news you’ll want to watch closely.
Today, Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum kicked off a new initiative to turn the emirate into a world leader in media and entertainment. The plan is straightforward: create two dedicated committees with the backing to attract top-tier talent and projects. One committee will focus on film development, led by Issam Kazim, and the other on gaming, headed by Khalfan Belhoul.
This isn't just about policy. It's a clear signal that Dubai is rolling out the red carpet for creatives and the companies that support them.
More Than Just a Headline
For investors, the real question is simple: what does this mean for the property market? While the full details are still emerging in late 2025, the directive to build “world-class services and facilities” points to a significant infrastructure push. We are likely looking at:
- State-of-the-art film studios and post-production facilities.
- Purpose-built arenas for e-sports tournaments.
- New free zones with tax incentives for media companies.
This creates a chain reaction in the property market. These new media hubs will need more than just high-tech offices. They will drive demand for new residential buildings, co-working spaces, and retail tailored to a growing community of digital artists, developers, and filmmakers.
A New Kind of Community
The Head of Economic Diversification Studies at the Dubai Future Foundation put the strategy in perspective.
"This move into film and gaming is about more than just media. It's a calculated plan to diversify our economy, attract high-skilled professionals, and build vibrant communities around them. That activity naturally strengthens Dubai's real estate market."
The Long-Term Investment Picture
Dubai isn't just aiming for temporary projects. The government's commitment includes building a sustainable ecosystem from the ground up by supporting local talent through training programs and fostering long-term partnerships.
This strategy is designed to create a permanent community of creative professionals. For property investors, that translates to sustained demand, long-term occupancy, and potential value appreciation in the new media and gaming districts.
Dubai is betting that the creative economy is its next major growth engine. For investors paying attention, this is a roadmap to the city's next investment frontier.
