Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
At the first Russian-UAE business forum in Dubai, Gazprom-Media Holding CEO Alexander Zharov presented a comprehensive roadmap for the two countries' strategic partnership in the media sector. A key initiative was the proposal to establish a Russian-UAE Center for Creative Industries.
In his speech at the plenary session "Long-Term Growth Architecture: New Horizons for Russia-UAE Cooperation," Alexander Zharov emphasized the enormous untapped potential of the two countries' cultural, technological, and ambition-driven alliances in Russian-UAE relations. He cited the UAE's attractive terms, including its tax regime, rebate system, and state-of-the-art industrial infrastructure, as key factors for investment.
"I am convinced that deepening cooperation will create a unique charge of creative energy that will become a powerful driver of economic development in both countries."
Alexander Zharov, General Director of Gazprom-Media Holding
Gazprom-Media Holding is already actively developing three main areas of cooperation:
Film distribution. Since 2023, Central Partnership, a holding company, has released 11 Russian films in the UAE, including "Cheburashka," "The Challenge," and new releases for 2025. Plans include transitioning from isolated releases to a systematic approach, including joint cultural events. Filming in the UAE. The holding has successful production experience in the Emirates, including two seasons of the show "Survive in Dubai." Next year, an expansion of its international project lineup is planned, including a feature film, tentatively titled "Vacation in the UAE," which is being prepared for submission to the Abu Dhabi rebate program. Co-production. Gazprom-Media Holding is in talks with major UAE media organizations, including Abu Dhabi Media, Etisalat e-life, and MBC Group, regarding joint content and distribution projects.
To consolidate these efforts, Gazprom-Media Holding has proposed the creation of a Russian-UAE Center for Creative Industries. The initiators envision it as a platform for co-production, research initiatives, startup acceleration, and educational programs. The center's design is already being discussed with relevant UAE ministries.
Gazprom-Media's strategy is aimed at building a systemic partnership with representatives of the UAE's creative industry. In addition to establishing the center, its elements include expanding mutual distribution on digital platforms, joint marketing activities, and the integration of media ecosystems, including through the exchange of specialists and students.
The forum's plenary session was attended by Anton Alikhanov, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation; Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism of the UAE; Alexander Zharov, CEO of Gazprom-Media Holding; Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, Minister of Investment of the United Arab Emirates; Chief Executive Officer, ADQ Holding; Rustam Minnikhanov, Rais (Head) of the Republic of Tatarstan; Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO, DPWorld; Vitaly Sergeychuk, Member of the Management Board, VTB Bank; Mahdi Amjad, Founder and Executive Chairman, OMNIYAT Group.
The forum was organized by the Russia-Emirates Business Council (REBC) with the support of the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Roscongress Foundation, and the Marathon Investment Group. Gazprom-Media Holding served as the event's media partner.
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