The globally renowned International Music Summit (IMS) has announced its Dubai debut, marking its first venture into the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region. Known for its impact on the electronic music industry, IMS has previously held events in international cities such as Ibiza, Los Angeles, Shanghai, and Singapore, each gathering thought leaders, artists, and industry stakeholders. Set for November 14-15 at the W Hotel Dubai – Mina Seyahi, IMS Dubai will explore the intersection of music, culture, technology, and finance, reflecting the increasing significance of the MENA region in the global music landscape.
This inaugural IMS Dubai, backed by industry partners AlphaTheta and Beatport, aims to foster regional and global conversations around entrepreneurship, investment, and the expanding cultural landscape of electronic music. The summit’s mission is to celebrate the innovative spirit of MENA’s music scene, spotlighting regional artists, event organizers, and industry leaders. Dubai’s status as an emerging music and cultural center, combined with its distinctive East-West blend, underscores its selection as the summit’s host city. This event is anticipated to fuel cross-cultural exchanges and collaboration within the electronic music community.
Notable Speakers and Topics of Discussion
Among the prominent speakers, Maha ElNabawi, Managing Editor at Billboard Arabia, will deliver the keynote address, while Aloki Batra, CEO of Five Hospitality and The Pacha Group, will discuss “Culture Tourism: Dubai & Ibiza Duality.” Other high-profile speakers include Janet Ashak from YouTube and Karima Damir from Warner Music, who will provide insights on the music industry across the MENA region.
Additional panels will cover a range of relevant topics such as “Navigating the Music Industry in the MENA region,” “Culture Tourism: Dubai & Ibiza Duality,” and “Royalties in the Middle East” hosted by the Association for Electronic Music (AFEM). “The choice of Dubai as our host city not only recognizes the cultural dynamism here but underscores IMS’s commitment to fostering musical innovation and growth in areas where change is happening,” noted IMS founders. “For nearly two decades, IMS has united the electronic music community, emphasizing music’s power to bring diverse audiences together. IMS Dubai exemplifies this ethos, celebrating unity through music and supporting safer spaces for all.”
Diverse Regional and Global Perspectives
Regional talent such as Abdell Rahman from Gawdat, DJ and Producer Saliah, and Iranian-born artist Parvané will be joined by international names including Tomorrowland and Defected Records representatives. Discussions led by figures like AFEM COO Finlay Johnson will address rights and royalty challenges in the MENA region, a critical issue for artists navigating the local industry landscape. The summit will also highlight Dubai’s rising underground music scene, with key industry players such as Philipp Straub of Soho Garden and Deian Markov from Groove On The Grass discussing the growth of music festivals and nightlife.
IMS Dubai’s attendees will gain insights from a diverse pool of speakers from Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and more, including discussions on “Taking Arabic Artists to the Global Stage” and “The Growth of Labels and Streaming in the MENA Region.”
Exclusive Evening Events
IMS Dubai promises dynamic networking opportunities through its exclusive evening events, including a local underground showcase by Duck Soup at Farrago, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi. The summit will close with an afterparty at Hive, Soho Garden, celebrating electronic music talent from Dubai and beyond.
Tickets and Participation
Badges for IMS Dubai go on sale on September 19, starting at AED 435, with discounts for students and individuals under 27. IMS will also donate 1% of all delegate badge and sponsor income to EarthPercent, the summit’s climate action partner.
For more information, or to submit applications for speaking or sessions, visit the IMS Dubai website.