It was probably only a matter of time before Dubai launched a Music City, alongside it’s well-established creative hubs of Media City, Studio City, Internet City and Production City.
Last week Universal Music Group (UMG), considered a world leader in music-based entertainment, signed a deal with UAE-based DGMC.
In a statement, DGMC said its vision is to develop a thriving, sustainable, and lasting music ecosystem in the Middle East.
“The ‘Music City’ development, which will be based in the UAE, will drive this vision, and serve as the regional hub for both local and international recording artists and songwriters,” it said.
The partnership will see the companies build a cutting-edge recording studios, develop educational academies, and the creation of a new full-service music label to support local and regional artists.
UMG, which is home to artists like Taylor Swift, The Weeknd and Drake, will bring deep experience in artist development, marketing and promotions to help inspire future generations of local artists and songwriters.
Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairwoman of DGMC, said the 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, Universal Music Group, added: “We have long recognised the potential in the Middle East, and are incredibly proud to be working with world-class partners like DGMC.
“We share their excitement and vision to harness this potential and nurture the next generation of recording artists and songwriters.”
The development will include three new Capitol Studios recording studios – these will be the first-ever Capitol Studios outside of the historic Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
A range of must-see music experiences for fans are also planned. The label will be a joint venture between UMG and DGMC and will sign and develop local artists, helping them instead to become global ones.
Educational academies will offer master classes hosted by top talent in the industry.
