The media market in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is projected to grow from $17 billion in 2024 to $20.6 billion by 2028, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9%, according to the newly released ‘Arab Media Outlook – Future Vision’ report by the Dubai Press Club. The report was launched during the Arab Media Summit, held in Dubai from May 26 to 28.
Advertising is expected to remain the largest media subsegment, accounting for 38% of the total market value by 2028, followed closely by video. Both segments are undergoing rapid digital transformation, with internet advertising growing at a CAGR of 7.2% and gaming expanding at 4.4% CAGR. In contrast, traditional media formats are witnessing a gradual decline.
Over-the-top (OTT) video services and music streaming are experiencing steady growth across the region, while podcasting and esports are emerging as promising frontiers. The report identifies video as the most culturally influential subsegment, as OTT adoption continues to rise. Broadcast models are evolving into hybrid broadcast-digital formats to adapt to changing audience behaviors.
In the audio space, music streaming generates over 80% of total revenue, while radio retains strong reach in certain countries. Podcasting, although still in its early stages, is gaining traction, especially among younger demographics.
The publishing sector is also transforming, driven by the shift toward e-books, audiobooks, and digital journalism. Large book fairs across the MENA region remain key events for industry visibility. Meanwhile, digital advertising continues to dominate, with platforms like Google, Meta, and TikTok absorbing a major share of advertising budgets.
Gaming stands out as the fastest-growing media subsegment in the region, driven by consumer demand, platform accessibility, and a growing interest in esports. All major MENA markets are expected to experience consistent growth in gaming revenues through 2028.
Cinema is undergoing a revival, especially in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with other regional markets following suit. Annual cinema admissions are projected to grow by 5% to 6% across most MENA countries over the forecast period.
The report outlines five key enablers of sustainable media growth in the region: modernized regulations, talent development, funding access, infrastructure investment, and innovation in R&D. Policymakers across the region are enhancing investor confidence through reforms such as streamlined licensing, revised ownership laws, and transparent content classification systems.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is identified as a transformative force across the media value chain—from personalized content and automated journalism to immersive experiences in gaming and advertising. However, the report also warns of the need to address ethical and regulatory challenges to ensure sustainable innovation.
Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice-Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, emphasized:
“The Arab media industry is entering a new phase, driven by rapid technological evolution and changing audience expectations. This report equips stakeholders with the insight to navigate this transformation.”
Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President of Dubai Media City and affiliated clusters under Tecom Group, added:
“The UAE views media as a strategic pillar of sustainable development. Our media sector plays a vital role in shaping the creative economy and innovation ecosystem.”
Tarek Matar, Partner at Strategy&, concluded:
“With growing investment in content, infrastructure, and policy reform, the Arab media sector is poised to become a dynamic, globally competitive industry.”
Source: Mediaoffice.ae
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
