Universal Music Group (UMG) has taken a significant step into the thriving music markets of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) by entering into a strategic partnership with Dubai Global Music City (DGMC). Together, they aim to create the first-ever Music City in the Middle East, a groundbreaking development set in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The 'Music City' project is a collaboration between UMG and DGMC, focusing on the construction of new recording studios and educational academies. The initiative also includes the establishment of a joint venture label dedicated to signing and developing local artists.
DGMC envisions the project as the world's first "purpose-built music city," with the primary goal of fostering sustainable careers in the international music industry and exporting the distinctive sound of the MENA region.
In April 2023, the UAE government, through its Dubai Culture division, announced a Memorandum of Understanding with Music Nation Copyrights Management and DGMC Production. The collaboration aims to support Dubai's music sector and elevate it to international standards.
Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairwoman of both Music Nation and DGMC, expressed enthusiasm about the public-private partnership, stating, "This partnership will deliver state-of-the-art copyright protection, distribution, and advanced recording facilities to ignite Dubai’s music economy and establish Dubai as a leading Music City."
The development will include three Capitol Studios-branded recording studios, marking the first time Capitol Studios facilities will be built outside of the iconic Capitol Tower in Hollywood. These studios will feature cutting-edge technology, including a Dolby Atmos mixing room, recording studios, a green room, a writer's room, and a rehearsal studio. Additionally, UMG promises a range of immersive music experiences for fans.
Educational initiatives are also a significant component of the project, with structured curriculum courses and special 'Master Classes' hosted by industry experts. UMG and DGMC aim to nurture the next generation of recording artists and songwriters, aligning with the MENA region's rapid growth in the recorded music market.
The move follows UMG's acquisition of Chabaka Music in the UAE six months prior and the launch of Universal Arabic Music (UAM) in collaboration with Republic Records and music entrepreneur Wassim 'SAL' Slaiby in 2021.
The MENA region's recorded music market demonstrated remarkable growth, expanding by 23.8% YoY in 2022, making it the third-fastest-growing market globally that year. Streaming claimed the highest share at 95.5%, indicating the region's strong affinity for digital music consumption.
DGMC Chairwoman Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, "DGMC’s initiatives will not only help to foster our regional creatives and music-related professionals but elevate the UAE’s music economy to global levels."
Adam Granite, Executive Vice President, Market Development at Universal Music Group, emphasized their recognition of the Middle East's potential and the excitement to collaborate with DGMC. The partnership aims to create a powerful platform for regional talent and accelerate their careers both at home and abroad.
Other major players, including Warner Music Group and Reservoir, have also made strategic investments in the MENA region, underscoring its increasing importance in the global music industry.
