STOP-MOTION ADVENTURE
Ramy El Gabry's singular mission is to create an Arab superhero that local children will revere. Will Captain Shedeed make the cut?
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GROUP
Managing Director Vijaya Cherian vijaya.cherian@cpipromedia.com
+971 (55) 1053787
EDITORIAL
Editorial Director Vijaya Cherian vijaya.cherian@cpipromedia.com
+971 (0) 55 105 3787
Editorial Contributors
Kalyani Gopinath
Nusrat Ali
Urooj Fatima
Sub Editor Aelred Doyle
ADVERTISING
Group Sales Director Sandip Virk sandip.virk@cpipromedia.com
+971 (0) 50 929 1845 / +44 (0) 7516 993 862
FINANCE
Accountant Yonwin D’souza finance@cpipromedia.com
DESIGN & PRODUCTION
Art Director Mechielle Penera EVENTS
Events Executive Sabahat Khan events@cpipromedia.com
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Web Developer Hafiz Muhammad Waqas IT@cpipromedia.com
FOUNDER
Dominic De Sousa (1959-2015)
PARTNER
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WELCOME
I wish all of you a blessed Ramadan. If we had to print stories about the deluge of Ramadan productions in the market, there would be space for little else. As a result, we decided to keep them exclusive to our website.
In the meantime, I must confess that each year when I visit Riyadh I am amazed at the magical transformation in the city; it seems to have morphed into a totally different being throbbing with new life and fresh vibes. February was packed with industry events, but I’ll just focus on the two that were particularly important to our industry. We were delighted to have been an intrinsic part of the Saudi Media Forum (SMF) and the Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX). Saudi Arabia has impressively attracted a very different set of high-profile international and regional industry professionals, so it was good to be there, Also, if you want to meet with Saudi companies, FOMEX is the place to be. It was interesting to note that a few companies were launching new products at the show; others were signing deals at the event. Arabsat signed two – one with Qvest for the launch of an OTT platform, and a second with Audimatic for its audience measurement technology. Total Media Cast launched Beamy, a holographic innovation that could potentially replace mannequins and to some extent news anchors. With the exhibition being compact, we had the opportunity to visit exhibitors at a less-rushed pace, meaning we had time to get to know them better and make some good contacts. This edition brings you sound bites from some of them.
I am equally excited to share that our event in Riyadh attracted more than 180 industry professionals. As the first event under the CPI Pro Media banner, we were delighted to host some of the best of the best from the Saudi and wider Arab broadcast market. But with little space this month to cover two events, we shall bring all the details of ours next month. Until then, Ramadan Kareem.
VIJAYA CHERIAN, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
UPDATE NEWS
Takwene launches MENA’s first Dolby Atmos music studio; Dubai Studios and Ali Mostafa announce sequel to City of Life; Shahid opts for Mediagenix On-Demand; Viory partners with University of Sharjah; Oman TV adopts Lawo technology; Blinx boosts production efficiency with EVO; Oman’s MOI awards DVBT2 expansion project to Assendive Communications; and more
EVENT COVERAGE
SMF AND FOMEX BRING TOP INDUSTRY LEADERS TOGETHER IN RIYADH
The Saudi Media Forum and the accompanying Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX) concluded last month with more than 30,000 visitors attending the show, according to the show organiser. BroadcastPro ME brings you the highlights and sound bites from some of the exhibitors at the show
REGIONAL CASE STUDY NEWS ON THE DOT WITH NUKTA
A new venture in Dubai is set to reshape news delivery in South Asia, combining expert journalists with cutting-edge technology. We dive into the tech details with Nukta’s Chief Technology Officer Sohail Noor
COVER STORY
CAPTAIN SHEDEED: CREATING A LOCAL SUPERHERO
In a world dominated by CGI and Western superhero es, Ramy El Gabry takes the bold step of creating an Arab superhero called Captain Shedeed by reviving the lost art of stop-motion
GUEST COLUMN REVIVING CULTURAL IDENTITY THROUGH NATIVE STORYTELLING
In an era when globalised media dominates, the demand for authentic and culturally resonant stories has never been greater. For audiences in the Arab world, seeing narratives that reflect their experiences, languages and traditions is crucial. Native content not only preserves cultural identity but also strengthens a community’s connection to its roots, says Talal Al Asmani
Takwene unveils Dolby Atmos music studio to elevate audio production 02/25
Takwene, a digital content distributor, independent record label and music publisher, has launched a fully equipped Dolby Atmos music studio in Egypt. Achieved in collaboration with Dolby Laboratories, the studio aims to provide artists, filmmakers and producers with cuttingedge technology to elevate their creative projects and deliver an immersive audio experience. With this facility, Takwene is offering
music creators access to a professional-grade Dolby Atmos studio, designed to enhance sound production with depth and clarity.
Ahmed Raafat, GM and
co-founder of Takwene, said: “Our new Dolby Atmos music studio is a gamechanger for the MENA region. It not only sets a benchmark in sound quality
but also opens a world of creative possibilities for artists and producers.”
Ayman Konna, CEO and co-founder of Takwene, added: “We are breaking boundaries in audio production, empowering creators and elevating MENA’s voice on a global stage. Takwene’s Dolby Atmos music studio is an open invitation for creators to push sonic boundaries, experiment with immersive sound, and redefine their craft.”
DUBAI STUDIOS AND ALI MOSTAFA ANNOUNCE SEQUEL TO CITY OF LIFE
Dubai Studios, in collaboration with Emirati producer and director Ali Mostafa, has announced City of Life Continuum, the sequel
to the 2009 film City of Life. Filming commenced in Dubai last month, setting the stage for reportedly one of the most ambitious film projects
ever undertaken in the region. It will showcase an international ensemble cast, bringing together some of the finest actors from the UAE, Hollywood,
Bollywood, the Arab world and beyond.
Salem Al Youha AlMheiri, GM at Dubai Studios and CEO of Media Content at Dubai Media, described the film as a transformative project:
“This is more than just a sequel – it’s a cultural milestone. We are crafting a legacy that extends beyond borders, making Dubai a key player in the international film industry. This is our moment to tell a story that resonates with audiences across the globe.”
From left: Raby Hamza, Dolby MEA and Ahmed Raafat, Takwene.
Director Ali Mostafa (r) in a discussion with his team.
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Shahid enhances streaming with Mediagenix On-Demand
Shahid has implemented Mediagenix On-Demand, an AI-powered solution that enhances scheduling, content management and content performance. The integration enables Shahid to optimise multiplatform audience engagement and automate scheduling.
MBC Group initially partnered with Mediagenix in 2020 for linear scheduling. Now, with Shahid’s rapid
expansion, the adoption of Mediagenix On-Demand is a timely move that enhances operational efficiencies.
Nayla Nassar, Director of Sales Middle East, Mediagenix, said: “As the global leader in scheduling and content value management solutions, Mediagenix is proud to be a trusted partner for MBC Group during this period of exponential growth, supporting their operations across the entire content supply chain. The successful implementation is a testament to the close collaboration between the Shahid and Mediagenix teams, who worked seamlessly together from solution design to the full deployment of Mediagenix On-Demand.”
Dominic Farrell, CTO at Shahid, MBC Group, added: “Mediagenix’s on-demand automated scheduling solution not only enhances our operational efficiency but also allows us to meet the surging demand for high-quality content. This collaboration strengthens Shahid’s commitment to innovation, grounding us firmly on the path of delivering world-class viewer experiences.”
With AI-driven solutions tailored to modern content delivery, Mediagenix helps Shahid to efficiently manage content performance, streamline content curation for its on-demand platform and ensure automated schedule validation across multiple regions and languages.
SNAP AND QATAR GCO TEAM UP TO LAUNCH AR ACADEMY
Snap has signed an MoU with Qatar’s Government Communications Office (GCO) to establish MENA’s first AR academy. Over 300m people use AR on Snapchat, and in
MENA more than 85% of daily Snapchat users interact with Lenses daily. In Q4 2024, Snapchatters engaged with gen AI-powered Lenses more than 4bn times.
PARAMOUNT+ EXPANDS TO TURKEY WITH BEIN MEDIA GROUP
Paramount+ is set to launch in Turkey through a partnership with beIN Media Group. As part of the agreement, it will be integrated as a branded destination on beIN’s OTT platforms TOD and beIN Connect. This collaboration will provide Turkish audiences with access to an extensive library of content, including films from Paramount Pictures and Republic Pictures, series from CBS Studios and acclaimed dramas from Showtime.
Snap continues to support the AR creator and developer community through various programmes, tools and initiatives designed to enhance creative expression. With over 375,000 AR creators and developers worldwide having built more than 4m Lenses, Snap’s fifthgen Spectacles have expanded opportunities for immersive AR experiences.
Dan Cohen, Chief Content Licensing Officer at Paramount and President of Republic Pictures, talked about the value of the ongoing collaboration with beIN and said that the new deal strengthens the relationship between the studio and the payTV operator. Paramount Global has increasingly shifted its international strategy from launching standalone Paramount+ services to partnering with pay-TV platforms to create branded content hubs within their ecosystems.
Dominic Farrell, CTO at Shahid, MBC Group.
From left: Hussein Freijeh, GM of Snap Inc. Middle East, and Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, GCO Director.
Viory partners with University of Sharjah to advance video production
Viory, a video news agency, has signed an MoU with the University of Sharjah to enhance academic, professional and research opportunities in video content production and broadcasting. It will work with the university on masterclasses, research projects and joint initiatives involving both students
and faculty, and provide specialised training in video production techniques and offer internship programmes to help develop the next generation of media professionals.
HE Dr Saleh Taher Al Haj, Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs at the University of Sharjah, said: “By tapping into Viory’s
MBC GROUP LAUNCHES ENTERTAINMENT SERVICE AGGREGATOR MBCNOW
MBC Group has launched MBCNOW, a platform that seamlessly integrates MBC’s television channels and Shahid, its Arabiclanguage streaming service. It will bridge the gap between traditional television and digital streaming, catering to Saudi and wider Arab audiences. With advanced technology such as voice search and user-friendly features, it ensures effortless accessibility through a plug-and-
exceptional expertise, we are empowering our students and faculty to develop
compelling storytelling that truly reflects the world they experience today.”
play set-up and flexible, cost-effective subscription options.
Sam Barnett, Group CEO at MBC Group, commented: “With MBCNOW, we are taking a significant step forward in unifying the way consumers access and enjoy entertainment content across traditional broadcasts, digital streaming and future telco integrations. By bringing Shahid, linear channels and emerging technologies together in one seamless ecosystem, we’re paving the way for the next generation of entertainment experiences.”
SURJ ACQUIRES MINORITY STAKE IN DAZN TO BOOST SPORTS BROADCASTING IN KSA
Surj Sports Investment, the sports investment arm of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has announced that it will acquire a minority stake in DAZN. Through this agreement, DAZN will serve as Surj’s official streaming and broadcast partner, providing live and on-demand coverage of Saudi sporting events to a global audience. This collaboration is expected to reshape how regional fans interact with sports
while delivering significant economic and social benefits. A key component of the deal is the launch of DAZN MENA, a joint venture aimed at expanding broadcasting opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing sports industry. This initiative will enhance access to high-quality sports content across the MENA region, positioning Saudi Arabia as a major player in the global sports investment market.
From left: Zulayho Siddikova, GM of Viory and H.E. Dr Saleh Taher Al Haj, University of Sharjah.
MBC Group CEO Sam Barnett.
Oman TV adopts Lawo AoIP technology for broadcast audio infrastructure
Oman’s Ministry of Information has launched a project to transform its central theatre into a hybrid space that combines live event capabilities with full broadcast functionality. This project features a state-ofthe-art audio infrastructure powered by Lawo’s advanced IP-based solutions.
The upgrade is part of Oman TV’s efforts to modernise its facilities, ensuring the theatre meets both live performance needs and seamless integration with its 20 studios supporting five national channels. It enables real-time signal sharing between the theatre and other studios while maintaining top-tier quality for live broadcasts and in-house productions.
Auditoriums are not traditionally designed to incorporate broadcast-
grade redundancy, presenting a significant challenge for Oman TV. However, the goal was to establish the venue as an additional broadcast studio, allowing seamless signal transmission. To achieve this without compromising quality or reliability, the project required a robust IP networking system.
Pixel Solutions, a Muscat-based systems integrator, collaborated closely with Lawo to tackle these challenges. “Lawo’s solutions and expertise helped us design a system that exceeds Oman TV’s exacting standards,” stated CEO Anas Alkurdi.
At the heart of the theatre’s audio infrastructure is the Lawo mc²56 MkIII audio production console, equipped with 32 faders and
powered by an A__UHD Core engine. This system enables engineers to manage live event audio while seamlessly controlling signals for broadcast distribution. With more than 100 audio inputs and outputs, the setup ensures smooth routing and reliable performance across all applications.
Additional Lawo solutions further enhance the system’s functionality. Two A__stage64 stage boxes facilitate seamless audio connectivity throughout the venue, adhering to ST2110 standards for optimal sound quality and resilience. Lawo’s HOME management platform centralises device control, simplifying operations within the hybrid production environment.
Beyond its audio system, the central theatre boasts an advanced AVL setup designed to elevate audience engagement. A massive 11m x 5m LED video wall from LEDman, reportedly the largest of its kind in Oman, serves as the stage’s backdrop. The
lighting design features over 60 Prolights fixtures installed within the complex ceiling structure. The audio coverage is driven by Bose Professional ArenaMatch AM10 loudspeakers and ShowMatch SMS118 subwoofers, configured in collaboration with Bose’s design team for precise sound distribution.
The venue is also equipped with commentary and translation booths featuring Studio Technologies solutions, such as the Model 214A announcer’s console and Model 348 intercom station. These integrate seamlessly with Lawo’s infrastructure using standard protocols, demonstrating the system’s adaptability and efficiency.
Oman TV benefits significantly from Lawo’s IP-based technology. The system’s redundancy ensures uninterrupted broadcasting, crucial for live production, while its modular structure allows for future expansions. The intuitive interface of the HOME platform streamlines workflows, reducing set-up times and operator training requirements. Additionally, Lawo’s equipment is seamlessly integrated with third-party systems, including Bose and Studio Technologies.
A Lawo training session in progress at Oman TV.
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Advanced Media takes sustainability to new level with DHL partnership
Advanced Media Trading (AMT), which has been pushing forward with sustainability initiatives over the last few years, partnered with DHL Express last month to reduce carbon emissions by using DHL’s GoGreen Plus service. This service
allows AMT to cut emissions by 30% through Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a renewable fuel sourced from sustainable materials, replacing traditional jet fuel to lower aviation carbon footprints and advance net-zero goals.
BUTTERFLY MEDIA APPOINTED EXCLUSIVE
REPRESENTATIVE OF M&I BROADCAST SERVICES
UAE reseller Butterfly Media has been appointed exclusive regional distributor of M&I Broadcast Services, a Dutch provider of advanced radio automation and broadcast software solutions. This enables M&I to extend its market reach and offer tailored solutions that cater to broadcasters in the GCC.
Sanaa Sammour, MD of Butterfly Media, said: “We are thrilled to partner with M&I Broadcast Services and bring their industry-leading solutions to the GCC market. This partnership will empower broadcasters in the region with the tools they need to enhance their operations, improve their content and deliver exceptional audio experiences to their audiences.”
The partnership has already achieved success, exemplified by a recent agreement with Marina FM Radio in Kuwait.
OMAN’S MOI AWARDS DVBT2 EXPANSION PROJECT TO ASSENDIVE COMMUNICATIONS
Oman’s Ministry of Information has awarded Assendive Communications LLC, UAE a contract for the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of the Second Generation of Terrestrial Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB-T2), including three towers and electromechanical equipment for Suwaiq, Sohar and Bidya stations, along with NMS expansion for various stations. The project is expected to be completed within 14 months.
This initiative is the first of several expansion projects aimed at enhancing the DVB-T2 service coverage, initially launched with 71 sites.
The expansion is set to significantly improve both indoor and outdoor coverage in the Batina and Sharqiyah North regions, increasing outdoor coverage from 75% to 93% in Batina and from 89% to 92% in Sharqiyah North.
Eng Sid AlShureqi, Director General of Engineering at
the Ministry of Information, said: “Modernisation of broadcasting services through the current digital technology is a focus of the sultanate. This project will enhance coverage in the Suwaiq, Sohar and Bidya. We are confident that Assendive will deliver the network enhancement as defined in the contract.”
Viswananthan Skandarrkumar, Director and Shareholder of Assendive Communications, added: “This project signifies the recognition of Assendive as a leader in the space of terrestrial broadcast system integration.”
DHL management with the Advanced Media team at the AMT office in Dubai.
Sanaa Sammour, MD of Butterfly Media.
Blinx boosts production efficiency with EVO shared storage upgrade
Blinx, a Dubai media company, has upgraded its media production capabilities by increasing storage capacity by 300%, achieving faster read/ write speeds and optimising its 4K NDI and XR video workflow with EVO shared storage. Producing around 50 pieces of content daily in its NDI-based studio, Blinx’s existing storage system couldn’t keep up with the demands of high-volume 4K video production. EVO stepped in with a solution.
“Before implementing EVO, we faced performance challenges with our old video production storage,” said Basel Al Rouh, Technical Manager at Blinx. “Particularly during peak usage, multiple users accessing our on-premise storage system or working with large project files would slow everything down. We needed a high-performance, post-production storage solution that could handle
our growing volume of media assets, maintain consistent speed and support a larger number of concurrent users without bottlenecks. EVO’s speed and ability to support heavy workloads were critical in addressing this need.
“In the past, when we experienced a disk failure with our previous storage system, the rebuilding process caused severe degradation in performance, rendering the storage almost inaccessible during that period. We needed a system that could maintain stability and functionality even during disk rebuilds. EVO offered the resilience we were looking for.”
Affordability was also key. Blinx needed to triple its online storage capacity, and improve performance, without breaking the bank. With EVO, it could increase its 4K video storage capacity at a fraction of the cost of other options. Not only was on-premise storage
capacity increased by 300%, the entire post-production workflow was also improved, at an affordable price. EVO’s scalable architecture allows Blinx to easily add capacity as its needs continue to evolve, ensuring a cost-effective solution for today and well into the future.
“EVO stands out for its beautiful and easy-to-use management interface, which makes it easy to monitor and control storage resources without needing extensive technical expertise. We can quickly scale storage, manage user access and maintain high performance. This simplifies day-to-day operations and keeps our team focused on production,” Al Rouh added. “Additionally, EVO’s file transfer tool, Slingshot, has proven to be useful for automating file transfers and streamlining our workflow. It allows us to automatically move large amounts of data
efficiently across different storage systems.”
From cameras to operating systems, EVO works with everything in Blinx’s forwardthinking studio.
“Another notable feature of EVO is the easy access from different operating systems. Our team uses macOS and our servers are mainly Linux. EVO’s cross-platform compatibility ensures that everyone can collaborate seamlessly without the need for additional software or complex configurations. While we work with various file types, all of our production is in 4K and our infrastructure is entirely NDIbased, allowing us to handle video over IP with low latency and high-quality output.
“In terms of equipment, we utilise cinematic cameras which align perfectly with our vision as a cutting-edge digital platform targeting Gen Z and youth audiences.”
Basel Al Rouh, Technical Manager at Blinx.
At the Blinx facility in Dubai.
StarzPlay and Seekr partner to accelerate AI adoption for businesses
StarzPlay has partnered with Seekr, naming it the exclusive software-as-aservice (SaaS) provider for the GCC region. The collaboration, formalised through an MoU, enables it to integrate Seekr’s AI-driven technology into its platform, enhancing user experience through personalised recommendations and sentiment-based search.
Additionally, StarzPlay will offer Seekr’s services to businesses, helping them leverage AI to drive growth, improve customer engagement and transition into AI-powered operations.
As part of this
Sharjah Media City (Shams) has awarded the contract for the design of the Shams Studios project to STUDIOI, in line with the directives of HH Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah. Shams Studios will house five advanced studios, each spanning 1,710sqm, covering a total area of 38,136sqm.
These facilities will cater to a wide range of production needs, including film, television and digital media projects. Additionally, the project will include fully integrated postproduction facilities equipped with editing suites, visual effects technology and sound processing rooms.
The complex will also feature 20 versatile
partnership, StarzPlay will provide external stakeholders with a suite of advanced genAI tools. These include intelligent chatbots for complex inquiries, deep learning-powered sentiment-based search and discovery, AI-driven anti-piracy measures, multilingual capabilities for broader audience reach, and customisable app features for tailored user experiences.
StarzPlay CEO Maaz Sheikh said: “Partnering with Seekr marks a significant milestone for both StarzPlay and the streaming industry in the MENA region. By leveraging Seekr’s advanced AI tools, we’re not only enhancing
StarzPlay user experience but also empowering businesses, including our existing clients, to achieve unprecedented scale. This innovative collaboration perfectly aligns with our 2025 growth strategy, enabling us to expand our offerings and solidify our position as a market leader.” Seekr’s AI technology enables StarzPlay to gain deeper insights into user behaviour, preferences and in-app interactions while maintaining strong data governance. These insights will drive a more personalised user experience, offering tailored content recommendations and notifications for upcoming releases.
STUDIOS
creative units available for both short-term rentals and long-term leases, fostering a vibrant environment for creatives and businesses. Collaborative workspaces, office spaces for production companies and modern meeting rooms will further enhance the ecosystem. To support production teams, the development will
include a dedicated hotel building and exclusive suites for actors, complemented by recreational facilities designed to inspire creativity and innovation. The construction contract is expected to be awarded by Q4 2025, with a defined timeline for the project’s development, construction and equipping phases.
SHARJAH MEDIA CITY ADVANCES MEDIA PRODUCTION WITH SHAMS
With the deal, StarzPlay will offer Seekr’s services to regional businesses.
CREATING CAPTAIN SHEDEED: A SUPERHERO WITH ARAB ROOTS
In a world dominated by CGI and Western superheroes, Arab superhero Captain Shedeed is taking the bold step of reviving the lost art of stop-motion. Created by Ramy El Gabry, founder and CEO of Divine Touch Productions, Captain Shedeed is more than just an Arab animated show. BroadcastPro ME speaks to El Gabry to uncover the vision and journey behind this project
Ramy El Gabry’s Captain Shedeed isn’t just battling diabolical villains intent on wiping out future human generations; he’s also striving to be a homegrown hero for Arab youth while reviving the art of stop-motion. The road is tough, the challenges formidable, but El Gabry is confident that the protagonist of his new series is up to the task. Calling it the largest Arabic stopmotion superhero production in the Middle East, El Gabry seeks to give young Arab audiences a role model who resonates with their cultural background and presents a uniquely Arab perspective.
The project was born from El Gabry’s frustration with the lack of Arab role models. In 2022, he decided to take matters into his own hands. “Captain Shedeed comes from a pain point I experienced as a father. I couldn’t find any animated content that accurately represented Arab society and culture for my children. There was no role model they could learn from, follow or interact with locally. I felt that we were following a foreign culture so intently that our Arab identity was gradually being erased. So, I challenged myself; I thought that if I’m really a storyteller then I should be able to fill this gap.”
The decision to use stop-motion was also part of El Gabry’s ‘back to our roots’ plan. “It all comes down to identity. I believe stopmotion is the only medium capable of capturing our cultural nuances and intricacies. While 3D and 2D animations are easier to execute, they often provide just a surface-
level perspective, making the viewer feel like an outsider looking in.”
To some audiences, Captain Shedeed’s storyline may seem dark, but El Gabry disagrees. “Animations transcend age barriers. I’m an adult, but I still enjoy Disney films. Even those films have villains; for instance, the witch in Snow White, and children watch them. Today’s youth have more exposure and they can accept dark storylines.”
Filming began in October 2023, with the team working tirelessly for more than 191 days. To date, more than 14,000 man-hours have been invested in the series – an astonishing figure considering it has resulted in just ten 10-minute episodes.
The first season of the series has more than 25 characters shot in 4K across 27 locations. The characters are barely 30cm in height, while the sets measure approximately 120cm x 100cm x 40cm. Remarkably, the intricate sets and characters were painstakingly put together by a team of less than 30 people, only seven of them full-time.
The bulk of the work is in creating
the models and sets. El Gabry points out a body of water in one of them: “It took three hours to craft this. It’s the details in the colour and textures that truly make it stand out. Every detail on the set, from the locations to the style of the furniture, is authentic. It is what you would typically see in Egyptian houses or streets. I wanted every detail to represent the Egyptian culture. I don’t think 2D or 3D animation could have achieved this vibe.”
Captain Shedeed’s sets are designed to be versatile. “Working with these sets is like being in Ikea. Everything can be assembled, rearranged or dismantled,” explains El Gabry. Most of the tiny props were made from recycled items, with the characters crafted from various materials such as polyester and rubber. It’s not obvious at first, but the tiny sets also offer unique advertising opportunities. Billboards can be placed on the streets created in the sets, just as in the real world. This adds another layer of authenticity.
A highly specialised filmmaking production technique, stop-motion
is both a true labour of love and a masterclass in patience. Physical objects are moved in minute increments between individually photographed frames to create the illusion of motion when played as a sequence.
“For us, a good day is when we can generate 20 seconds of output,” says El Gabry. “The average is between 10 to 15 seconds after 10 hours of shooting. It’s a painstaking and time-consuming process, but that’s the price we pay for authenticity and standing apart from the masses. The difference is akin to that between fast food and Michelin-starred cuisine.”
However, time intensity is not the project’s biggest challenge, he explains earnestly. “It’s being able to fill in the gap for local content. Our children need to consume better-quality entertainment. The content we create for them should be capable of earning their respect.
It’s not enough to have passion for a project like this. This is a project about discipline and dedication.”
The series’ protracted production process has not yet hampered its commercial prospects. “I already have a production company, Divine Touch Productions, which has been a huge advantage. It enabled us to conduct extensive R&D and work on the script till we were able to form a solid main structure for the series. My angel investor is one of my existing clients. He loved the idea of Captain Shedeed and decided to back it as well as serve as a business mentor. After he came on board, I was able to get seven more investors. The first season is like a pilot. We are using it to get an evaluation for the IP, and have also started a fundraiser for it.”
El Gabry has big plans for his miniature animations. “I visualise Captain Shedeed as a universe from which I can generate diverse and
The content we create for [kids] should be capable of earning their respect. It’s not enough to have passion for a project like this. This is a project about discipline and dedication
RAMY EL GABRY, FOUNDER AND CEO, DIVINE TOUCH PRODUCTIONS
unlimited content. For instance, I can use any of the 25 characters to build parallel stories, with each story comprising an average of 30 episodes. It’s something along the lines of Marvel or DC Comics,” he says excitedly.
To grow the brand he has roped in Heba Korayem, founder of Co-Production Salon, as Investment & Distribution Advisor. Korayem echoes El Gabry’s sentiments and vision for Captain
Shedeed, focusing on market realities. “Children’s entertainment is particularly challenging in the region. The genre mostly comprises imported content and it is difficult to match the commercial viability presented by them. While our business model may not appear viable at first instance, Ramy’s passion and vision are compelling.
“But it’s not just these that have convinced me. I see a lot of opportunity in the concept of Captain Shedeed. Regionally stop-motion is a dying art due to its time and labour intensity, but in other markets such content has succeeded. Since Ramy had already done half the hard work of creating the characters and sets, all I have to do is create a realistic distribution plan in the region and beyond, and make sure ROI is properly projected in preparation for season two.”
While she confirms that the series has garnered interest from leading
platforms, she doesn’t reveal the details as it’s still under negotiation.
“There’s always demand for kids’ content, and over the past year I’ve witnessed a wave of support from the industry for local content for kids. Captain Shedeed ticks all the boxes. It has a unique format and is closer to home, being Arab and Egyptian. In fact, we are expecting the series to be released regionally later this year.”
El Gabry is working on a twopronged distribution strategy to gain visibility. In addition to OTT platforms, he’s also planning a special social media release for Captain Shedeed. “We have specially created three catchy songs for the social media campaign. There’s also a competition to enhance the children’s interaction with the show’s characters,” he reveals. The social media campaigns also include opportunities for brand integration and product placement.
Commercially, the two have big
plans. “Right now the focus is on building the content and trading the video assets, but going forward El Gabry has the right vision that licensing and merchandising is where the real commercial value lies for children’s content,” Korayem explains.
As Captain Shedeed nears its release, El Gabry’s vision is coming to life – not just as a stopmotion series, but as a cultural movement. Deeply committed to authenticity, storytelling and artistic craftsmanship, the show is set to inspire a new generation of Arab youth while reviving an art form that demands patience, passion and precision. Yet for El Gabry this is just the beginning. With ambitious plans to expand Captain Shedeed into a full-fledged universe, complete with spin-offs, merchandise and even a potential theme park, he is determined to cement its place in the region’s entertainment landscape.
NUKTA DELIVERS DIGITAL NEWS ON THE DOT
A new venture in Dubai is set to reshape news delivery in South Asia, combining expert journalists with cutting-edge technology. We dive into the tech details with Nukta CTO Sohail Noor
In an age when traditional journalism is undergoing seismic shifts, veteran journalist Kamran Khan has launched Nukta, a digital content platform that aims to reshape news consumption in South Asia. With more than 42 years of experience in the Pakistani media industry and affiliations with the Washington Post and the Sunday Times, he brings a wealth of expertise to this ambitious venture. His vision is to leverage digital innovation and create a platform that caters to the needs of modern audiences.
Nukta officially launched its 24/7 digital content app late last year, a significant step forward in the evolution of digital journalism. The platform, accessible on Android and iOS, offers multilingual content in English, Urdu and Hindi, with Arabic soon to follow.
“With a global team of top-tier digital media professionals spanning 10 countries, Nukta is among the latest entrants in South Asia’s evolving digital media landscape,” claims Khan. The platform has correspondents stationed in cities including Dubai, Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Delhi, Istanbul and Washington, DC, ensuring a diverse perspective on regional and international affairs.
Nukta covers a wide spectrum of topics such as current affairs, business, lifestyle, technology,
The integration ensured that Nukta’s newsroom was designed to meet the needs of a dynamic, digitalfirst journalism ecosystem
SOHAIL NOOR, CTO, NUKTA
entertainment, health and sports. The editorial team includes respected names in journalism such as Jahanzaib Haque, a key figure in Pakistani digital media; Faisal Aziz Khan, a veteran of Reuters and TRT World; and Amber Rahim Shamsi, a former BBC journalist and Director of the Centre for Excellence in Journalism (CEJ) at the IBA. “Our South Asian perspective brings fresh insights to global audiences while championing journalistic integrity,” says Khan.
Beyond its editorial strength, Nukta’s success is built on a foundation of advanced technology, helmed by CTO Sohail Noor. Its facilities in Dubai and Pakistan include five high-tech studios, control rooms and a newsroom powered by CMS by RebelMouse. The entire technical infrastructure was designed and integrated by systems integrator Wave Media.
“This project stands out from traditional set-ups, showcasing Wave Media’s ability to engineer diverse and adaptable solutions,” states Zaid Wattar, MD of Wave Media. “As a versatile systems integrator, we design and implement technology for a wide range of applications, and this project reinforces our expertise in handling complex, unique deployments.”
This project stands out from traditional set-ups, showcasing Wave Media’s ability to engineer diverse and adaptable solutions
ZAID WATTAR, MD, WAVE MEDIA
The platform employs Avid MediaCentral to facilitate seamless collaboration, allowing teams across multiple locations to collaborate efficiently. The system enables real-time collaboration and secure on-premise data storage in Dubai and Karachi, with high-speed VPN networks facilitating automatic synchronisation.
“Our newsroom features an INFiLED hi-res professional videowall for comprehensive monitoring, while 4K UHD PTZ cameras with auto-tracking AI technology enhance production capabilities. The infrastructure incorporates Ross Ultrix Hyperconverged Routing and Carbonite ULTRA for advanced video switching and signal processing,” explains Noor.
Our South Asian perspective brings fresh insights to global audiences while championing journalistic integrity
KAMRAN
KHAN, FOUNDER, NUKTA
Although it currently uses HD video bandwidth, Nukta’s systems are fully prepared for an upgrade to high-bandwidth NDI for 4K. The newsroom’s design prioritises scalability, accommodating additional users, storage archives and editorial expansion as the platform grows. Extensive training was provided to Nukta’s in-house team, with direct vendor sessions from Avid, Ross Video and INFiLED ensuring the
team could harness the full potential of these technologies.
Unlike traditional TV broadcast environments, Nukta had to overcome unique challenges in building a digital-first platform. The conventional broadcast model relies on incoming data being fed to a transmission control room, then broadcast via satellite to a wide audience. In contrast, Nukta operates within a non-linear digital workflow,
where data is transformed into multiple formats to suit different platforms. A video segment might not be released in its original form but instead repurposed into GIFs or images for the website, app and social media. Similarly, a raw text feed from the editorial team may be adapted into an animated infographic with frame rates optimised for all device types. To tackle these challenges, CTO
Nukta founder Kamran Khan.
From left: Faizan Kamran, co-founder and Chief of Strategy, with Tanya Tanveer Abbasi, co-founder and Chief of Brand, at the launch of Nukta.
Sohail Noor collaborated with Avid and Ross Video. “The integration ensured that Nukta’s newsroom was designed to meet the needs of a dynamic, digital-first journalism ecosystem.”
Nukta’s business model is designed to ensure long-term sustainability in a digital landscape in which monetisation remains a challenge. The platform operates an in-house brand studio that serves as a go-to resource for platforms and organisations looking to create whitelabel content. It also offers a range of digital advertising solutions that can be leveraged across its website, mobile app and social media platforms.
content is growing exponentially. This presents an opportunity for Nukta to capture and engage audiences through digital-first storytelling tailored for social platforms. The platform’s future growth plans include expansion into Saudi Arabia and North America, solidifying its presence in the global digital media landscape.
journalism, delivering impactful stories that inform and inspire action. As Dubai continues to establish itself as a global media hub, Nukta is uniquely positioned to capture the region’s growth while providing high-quality journalism to audiences worldwide.
With South Asia and the Middle East home to over two billion people, many of them digital natives, the demand for online
Looking ahead, Khan sees this as just the beginning of Nukta’s journey, envisioning it as a powerhouse for investigative
With a combination of strong editorial content, advanced technology and a strategic business approach, Nukta aims to set a new benchmark for digital journalism in South Asia and beyond.
At Nukta’s Dubai facility.
SMF AND FOMEX BRING TOP INDUSTRY LEADERS TOGETHER IN RIYADH
The Saudi Media Forum and the accompanying Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX) concluded last month with more than 30,000 visitors attending the show, according to the show organiser. BroadcastPro ME brings you show highlights and sound bites from exhibitors
Saudi Media Forum President Mohammed Fahad Al-Harthi met with a group of high-profile international experts and industry leaders in Riyadh to explore strategic collaborations and innovative content production opportunities that align with Saudi Arabia’s 2030 vision of becoming a global media powerhouse. Al-Harthi emphasised Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering a dynamic media ecosystem, highlighting the country’s
investment in accelerators, incubators and production funds designed to support international partnerships.
“The future of media is built on collaboration, innovation and cross-border content creation. We are excited to work with global leaders to shape a new era of storytelling,” he commented.
The meeting also addressed the importance of AI in content creation, the evolving landscape of streaming platforms and
the role of the Kingdom as a hub for global media projects. There was a lot of enthusiasm about potential partnerships, particularly in film, animation and immersive media experiences.
This dialogue marks a significant step in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s position in the global media industry, paving the way for co-productions, content distribution agreements and knowledge exchange between local and international players.
Maya Shokor, Key Account Manager, FGC
FGC took a prominent spot at FOMEX because we play an integral role in the Saudi and regional market. FGC primarily operates in the broadcasting and TV sector, working with some of the most prominent clients in the region. Our portfolio includes industry leaders like MBC, Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA), Bloomberg and Asharq, as well as major corporate clients. Broadcasting is expanding beyond
traditional media, and we’re seeing a growing demand from corporate sectors. Companies like Aramco and SABIC are now setting up their own studios, which is a trend we’re actively supporting.
As the first and biggest local systems integrator in Saudi Arabia, FGC enjoys a distinct advantage. Unlike international competitors, we’ve been deeply embedded in the industry from the start. We’ve grown alongside our clients, adapting to technological shifts and pushing them to evolve with us. For example, we’ve been instrumental in modernising SBA, Bahrain TV and MBC’s sports channels. We’ve led their transition into the new IP-based ST2110 infrastructure.
There is a lot of competition now but we’re also constantly improving our services, strengthening our teams
and reminding clients why having a Saudi-based integrator matters. International firms may open an office here but they lack on-theground support. Our team is here, our engineers are here and our technology is here. That kind of immediate access and support is something global competitors can’t replicate.
We’re also one of the largest systems integrators in the region. In our office alone, we have around 2,600 employees across various business units. If you factor in our facility management division, which handles maintenance, that number exceeds 3,600 people. Our scale allows us to support clients in every aspect, from civil engineering to broadcasting, facility management and maintenance. This is why FGC remains a leader in the industry. We’re not just keeping up with change, we’re driving it.
Amrit Pandrangi, Division Head (Optical Devices), Fujifilm Middle East
The minister came by and we gave him a full demo at our booth. We were really happy to have been able to do that. We have a lot of clients in Saudi Arabia, and Saudi broadcasting Authority is one of our most high-profile clients. A lot of production houses in Saudi use our technology as well. The highlight of our stand was the Fujinon Duvo 24300, a native PL mount lens. This is a dual format, which means it’s both large format but also offers native Super 35mm sensor coverage. Sensors equivalent to full-frame can be covered via the builtin expander. This function expands the lens’ image circle by 1.5x, maintaining the same optical quality and angle of view. We believe this is the future of broadcast, where we start getting cinematic quality shots, but with familiar broadcast server operation.
Qvest and Arabsat collaborate to launch OTT platform
Qvest and Arabsat signed a Memorandum of Understanding at FOMEX 2025 in Riyadh to develop a high-performance OTT streaming platform. This strategic collaboration will enable Arabsat to expand its directto-consumer services while offering customisable, white-label solutions for broadcasters and content providers. With the growing demand for seamless, multi-device content access, Arabsat is strengthening its role in the digital media transformation. Leveraging Qvest’s expertise in cloud-based solutions, SaaS and end-to-end OTT platforms, the partnership will introduce a scalable, AI-driven platform featuring personalised recommendations, diverse monetisation models and advanced content management tools.
Beyond technology, Qvest will provide Arabsat with business consultancy, strategic guidance and support in building content
partnerships. The partnership will also facilitate collaborations with local and global content providers to enhance Arabsat’s digital offerings.
Speaking about the platform, Eng Alhamedi Alanezi, President and CEO of Arabsat, said: “This partnership with Qvest furthers Arabsat’s strategy to transform media distribution. By offering reliable advanced OTT streaming capabilities alongside traditional satellite services, Arabsat helps broadcasters boost audience reach and engagement in a changing media landscape.”
Ahmad Hadi Al Kayal, Managing Director of Qvest MENA, added: “We are proud to support Arabsat in shaping the future of OTT in the MENA region. Our collaboration will not only provide Arabsat with a cutting-edge streaming infrastructure but also enable business growth through a flexible and highly scalable digital media ecosystem.”
The teams from Qvest and Arabsat at the signing ceremony.
Abdel Fatah
Elmasry, CEO, I-deastv Productions
I-deastv Productions has been around for 15 years, and our first TV show, Kora, which is still on air. It’s a daily sports show focused on football. Since 2010, our company has worked with major broadcasters like MBC, Rotana, Saudi TV, LBC, Aljadeed TV, SSC and many ministries, specialising in Saudi content.
We’ve created several shows about Saudi tourism and reality shows. One of our significant projects, Around the Kingdom, was a series that introduced Saudi Arabia to Saudi nationals itself. We explored places across the Kingdom that many Saudis
Stars Media was founded in 2012; it is headquartered in Egypt and is privately owned. We began as a company focused solely on distributing films and television series. We were one of the first companies to dub Turkish and Syrian series into Arabic and distribute them across the Arab world.
I started the journey with Stars Media, and later brought my siblings into the business, transforming it into a family-run company. In 2020, Stars Media expanded its reach by opening a branch in Dubai. My sister oversees marketing, my brother assists with production, and my other sister manages financial administration.
Today, we have expanded from distribution into a fully
integrated production company that develops its own content. Our first drama production was the series Al-Qamar Akher El Dounya, released in 2020. Despite the challenges we faced due to COVID-19, the series achieved significant international success.
Since then, we have produced many successful projects, including the series Al-Tawoos (The Peacock), Ba’d Al-Nihaya (After the End), and more recently, Raheel (Departure), which aired during Ramadan 2024. We are currently working on a new series titled For the Clever Only (Lil Azkiya’ Faqat). It is being broadcast on Saudi SBC TV, and consists of 15 episodes, each about 30 minutes long. Additionally, we are gearing up to produce new feature films in 2025.
were unfamiliar with. This was long before the Neom and Alaula projects were even considered. We’ve also done shows on sports, poetry and more recently, drama. Our latest project, a drama series entitled Hazza, will air soon on Shahid. Our headquarters is in Riyadh, but we also have offices in Dubai and Beirut. Before founding I-deas, I worked as Head of Production at MBC.
We have a great relationship with the Saudi Radio and TV authorities, and every year, we participate in the Saudi Media Forum. This year was an incredible success.
Sheren Magdy, CEO, Stars Media Production
One of our latest projects in development is a film called Cairo-Jeddah. This movie is being filmed in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia. It is still in the early stages, and we are in the process of casting famous actresses for the project – stars who have a large fan base in both countries. As for television drama, we primarily focus on producing Ramadan series. We collaborate with a variety of TV networks and digital platforms to reach a wide audience.
As a producer, I am involved in every aspect of the project. I personally make sure to carefully choose the stories and writers I work with to ensure each project’s success. Our production budgets are significant, and I finance these projects myself.
Sheren Magdy (in orange) with her team.
Heba Korayem, founder, CoProduction Salon
The CoProduction Salon focuses on accelerating deals and investments in high-quality tradeable video assets such as TV shows, series and films. It brings together the region’s most influential media entities and qualified international partners seeking meaningful collaborations with MENA content experts.
The Salon’s CEO Networking Power Hour attracted a diverse range of international companies, underscoring the global interest in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region. Select invited C-Level executives including US-based leaders like Allen Media Group and Crazy Town Creative. Turkish powerhouses such as Intermedya and Mediahub showcased the growing demand for dubbed series in global markets while seeking high-quality Arabic titles for international distribution
– a trend increasingly noted by distributors worldwide. From the east, major platforms like Viu with a strong MENA presence were present. Regional giants, including Rotana TV, SBA and Egypt’s Al Nahar TV network, further highlighted the Salon’s mission to bridge meaningful collaborations between regional and international markets.
At FOMEX, the physical space facilitated over 100 spontaneous meetings, while the online platform recorded more than 200 meeting requests through its matchmaking service. Nearly 100 new applications were received during the event, with stringent criteria allowing a 30% participation rate, maintaining a high-calibre network of members and content investors.
Lama Sharyan, Social Media Specialist, B.PRO Production
B.PRO Production is a production house originally based in Beirut, but we now operate across the GCC and other countries. We also have a sister company in Riyadh, where we produce documentaries, TV programmes and news reports, mainly for TV channels. Some of our notable projects include two Ramadan docuseries for Saudi TV: La Akhir Nafas (Until the Last Breath) and Al Khair Fi Ahliha (Kindness is Within the People). Both have multiple seasons – Al Khair Fi Ahliha is now in its third season, and La Akhir Nafas is in its second. These series highlight Saudi philanthropists who, inspired by
their own experiences, have launched initiatives or NGOs to help others.
Our team size varies depending on the project, as we mainly operate on a project basis. The company is led by our General Manager, Rola Broch, who has extensive experience in the industry – she started out as a TV reporter before moving into production.
B.PRO is a woman-led company, and we primarily focus on docu-series, reports and TV programmes rather than drama series. Over the years, we’ve worked with several major networks, including Saudi TV, Al Arabi TV, TRT, DW and Al Jazeera.
Amr al Saeed, Marketing GM, Egyptian Media Production City
Egyptian Media Production City is the hub for media production in
Total Media Cast and Primecast together unveiled Beamy, a hologram screen, at FOMEX this year. This screen has multiple applications, one key one being an AI-powered avatar. It can connect to databases, ChatGPT or other platforms, allowing users to interact with it for information. It’s ideal for front desk systems in institutions, hotels and other public
Egypt. We have around 120 studios ranging from 50 to 2,000sqm and we are now building four more to accommodate all the requests. All Egyptian channels broadcast from there, along with several Arabic networks such as MBC Egypt and Orbit. The facility also features outdoor shooting areas designed to resemble different locations, including London, traditional Egyptian neighbourhoods (Shabi) and Islamic settings. All Egyptian series and movies are filmed within the production city. In addition to production, we have launched a dedicated section for cinematic restoration, working on around 60 movies over the past
three years. The site also houses a Dolby Atmos Studio, one of the most advanced sound mixing facilities in the Middle East. Currently, preparations are underway for this month of Ramadan, a particularly busy season. Over the last three years, the focus has been on hosting productions rather than producing original content. A key challenge at the moment is the development of a new four-star Mercure hotel within the production city. Additionally, this year marks the third time we are attending FOMEX, an event that has shown significant improvements since the previous edition.
Isam Ayyad, Founder and General Director, Total Media Cast
spaces. Another major application is as a digital mannequin replacement. With Beamy, users can easily swap outfits on a virtual model, making it perfect for retail displays. By shooting a model against a white background, the screen creates a 3D holographic mannequin that can dynamically showcase clothing, pricing and other details. From a broadcast perspective, Beamy can be used for news presenting by integrating various apps directly into the screen. We are already demonstrating its capabilities in Qatar with Al Rayyan TV, where the screen is being used for interviews. A guest appeared as a 3D hologram in the studio, allowing the presenter to engage with them as if they are physically present. TMC has also started a major
project in Syria, where we are evaluating and consulting on the relaunch of Syria’s national TV channel. This includes assessing equipment, staff and operational logistics. Right now, we are in the evaluation phase, and investment priorities will be determined next. We are also involved in a news channel project in Afghanistan in partnership with SNEWS, a wellknown Brazilian news system provider. While it’s an Afghan channel, there are discussions about launching it in Dubai. Our focus remains on supporting the broadcast industry with cuttingedge solutions and being part of key transitions happening across the region. FOMEX has been a great place to meet with potential customers.
TALAL AL ASMANI
Films, television and digital content play a key role in language preservation by reinforcing linguistic familiarity and cultural nuance while evoking a sense of emotional belonging.
Reviving cultural identity through native storytelling in Abu Dhabi
In an era when globalised media dominates, the demand for authentic and culturally resonant stories has never been greater. For Arab audiences, seeing narratives that reflect their experiences, languages and traditions is crucial. Native content not only preserves cultural identity but also strengthens a community’s connection to its roots.
The role of film in language preservation
Cinema has long reflected culture, language and identity. Arabic, spoken by over 400m people worldwide, is a historically rich and diverse language, with dozens of dialects spoken across the region. However, with the dominance of English and other global languages in entertainment and digital platforms, there is a growing concern about linguistic erosion, especially among younger generations. Studies have shown that media consumption directly influences language retention. Films, television and digital content play a key role in language preservation by reinforcing linguistic familiarity and cultural nuance while evoking a sense of emotional belonging.
Shaping cultural identity
Abu Dhabi is playing a pivotal role in this cultural renaissance by actively
supporting the rise of local content that resonates with regional audiences. Through strategic investments and initiatives, the emirate is nurturing a vibrant ecosystem in which filmmakers can tell stories that matter to their communities. Local entities have been at the forefront of this movement by producing original content that helps maintain the Arabic language’s relevance in modern contexts. From critically acclaimed films to compelling series that blend world-class expertise with regional knowledge, they have attempted to elevate Arabic content on regional and global platforms.
Celebrating Arabic through cinema
A case in point is one of the region’s most anticipated cinematic releases, Catsaway – the first Emirati featurelength animated musical. It takes the audience on a nostalgic journey through old Abu Dhabi in the 1990s with a group of misfit but lovable stray cats, capturing the city’s charm before its transformation into a global metropolis. Catsaway features an impressive lineup of voice actors from across the Arab world – the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Sudan – incorporating a wide range of dialects. This linguistic tapestry not only enhances the film’s authenticity but also mirrors the UAE’s legacy as a melting pot of
cultures where people from different backgrounds coexist harmoniously. Beyond language, Catsaway provides an unprecedented cinematic depiction of Abu Dhabi’s storied past, faithfully recreating historical landmarks, old souks and traditional neighbourhoods. Through its vivid animation and culturally rich storytelling, the film helps youngsters connect with Abu Dhabi’s heritage, adding an immersive educational element to the experience. Likewise, productions such as Al Kameen, Al Eid Eiden, Zinzana and HWJN showcase a range of regional stories, preserving cultural traditions while appealing to modern audiences. They bridge the gap between traditional narratives and contemporary storytelling, promoting a deeper sense of cultural belonging.
Commitment to local storytelling
Amplifying Arabic storytelling through world-class productions is a surefire way of celebrating the region’s linguistic and cultural diversity. By investing in local talent and championing regional stories, Abu Dhabi has helped preserve cultural heritage and redefined the region’s place in global cinema.
TALAL AL ASMANI IS HEAD OF LOCAL CONTENT AT IMAGE NATION ABU DHABI
