The International Music Summit (IMS) makes its debut in Dubai today, marking a significant milestone for the Middle East’s electronic music scene. Held at the stylish W Hotel Dubai – Mina Seyahi today, tomorrow and Saturday for badge holders, IMS Dubai brings together a dynamic lineup of global and regional industry leaders, artists, and innovators to explore the intersection of music, culture, finance, and technology. From deep discussions to exclusive nighttime events, IMS Dubai aims to spotlight the MENA region’s rising influence within the global music landscape.
For over a decade, IMS has been a thought-leadership platform in Ibiza, drawing key players from the electronic music world to discuss trends and challenges. Now, the summit is expanding its horizons to Dubai, underscoring the MENA region’s role as a fast-growing hub for electronic music, culture, and industry. Supported by AlphaTheta and Beatport, IMS Dubai showcases the Middle East’s unique position as a crossroads of global influences, cultural traditions, and cutting-edge innovation.
With a blend of high-profile speakers from companies like YouTube, Anghami, and Warner Music, IMS Dubai is set to dive into topics that matter for today’s artists, industry insiders, and audiences in the region.
IMS Dubai’s lineup features a mix of MENA-based talent and internationally recognized names. The opening keynote will be delivered by Maha ElNabawi, Managing Editor of Billboard Arabia, setting the stage for a series of panel discussions and interviews. Speakers include Aloki Batra, CEO of Five Hospitality & The Pacha Group, Janet Ashak of YouTube, &friends, Karima Damir from Warner Music ME, and more. Each brings a unique perspective on building and promoting the electronic music scene across borders.
The agenda covers a range of exciting topics, from the intersection of culture and tourism in Dubai and Ibiza to navigating rights and royalties in the region. Notable sessions include “Get Played, Get Paid,” led by AFEM (Association for Electronic Music), a session highlighting MENA’s emerging IP and royalty challenges. There will also be a panel on the Egyptian market led by Timmy Mowafi from SceneNoise, which will explore the rapid rise of electronic music in Egypt.
IMS Dubai takes the summit beyond traditional discussions with an exclusive lineup of nighttime events that showcase local and international talent. Delegates and guests will have the opportunity to experience sets by artists like Deep Dish, Saliah, Pete Tong, Cosmicat, Echonomist, and rising talents from across the MENA region.
The nighttime programming includes:
- November 14: An underground showcase by local collective Duck Soup at Farrago, followed by a stellar lineup at Soho Garden’s Playroom and Garden, featuring acts like Cosmicat, STRYV, and Yas Meen Selectress.
- November 15: Beatport’s Secret Sunset Sessions at Ginger Moon, with a surprise back-to-back set, leading up to the closing celebration at Hive, where legendary acts like Deep Dish and Echonomist will perform.
- November 16: IMS badge holders can also access exclusive events at the P7 Arena and Ushuaia Dubai Harbour Experience.
This dynamic program not only celebrates the diversity of the region’s electronic music but also solidifies Dubai’s role as a growing player on the global stage.
For those ready to immerse themselves in the heart of MENA’s electronic music scene, IMS Dubai promises an unforgettable experience blending culture, creativity, and cutting-edge innovation.
Whether you’re an artist, industry professional, or music lover, there’s still time to get involved. Visit IMS Dubai’s official site for tickets and event details.
For more stories of art and culture from across the region, visit our dedicated archives.
