Dubai PodFest 2025 Unites 1,200 Creators Under Sheikh Ahmed

Dubai, UAE – Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the Dubai Press Club hosted the fifth edition of Dubai PodFest, the region’s largest annual gathering for podcasters. The event, held at the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, attracted over 1,200 participants, including content creators, media professionals, platform representatives, and students.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed welcomed attendees, highlighting that Dubai PodFest reflects the emirate’s commitment to fostering a globally competitive Arab media industry. “Digital content today is more than entertainment; it is a tool for development, societal change, and cultural dialogue. By empowering creators, Dubai invests in a future where Arab media competes globally while preserving its identity,” he said.

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The event featured panel discussions and workshops addressing key topics such as the role of podcasting in social awareness, strategies for creator success, monetisation models, and the integration of podcasts with digital platforms.

Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and President of the Dubai Press Club, emphasised the growing influence of podcasting in the media landscape. “Podcasts combine credibility, reach, and influence. Dubai PodFest provides a platform for youth, entrepreneurs, and Arab creatives to shape the future of this expanding sector,” she said.

During the opening session, the Dubai Press Club recognised winners of the Arab Podcast Program, which provides practical training and mentorship to emerging podcasters. Emirati educator Amani Abdullah Al Teneiji won first place for her podcast Mareekh. Saudi media professional Raghad Al Arishi secured second place for Qudam, a cultural and tourism podcast highlighting lesser-known Gulf destinations. Third place went to Syrian podcaster Tahani Mohammed Zuhayman for Esma’ha Meni (Hear It from Me).

Maryam Al Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, underlined podcasting’s significance in daily life, noting its growing role as a driver of the creative economy and Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for digital and creative industries.

The opening session, moderated by Stefano Fallaha, CEO of Podeo, included insights from Bryan Barletta, President of Podcast Movement. Barletta highlighted the Middle East as a promising market for podcast advertising, noting that localisation to regional dialects can help creators engage unique audiences. He also stressed the importance of diversifying revenue streams through merchandise, subscriptions, live events, licensing, and video content, while advising creators to prioritise niche communities for sustainable growth.

Dubai PodFest 2025 demonstrated the emirate’s ongoing commitment to supporting media innovation and the growth of the Arab podcasting sector, bringing together a wide array of talent and expertise to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and explore opportunities in a rapidly evolving digital media landscape.