The International Music Summit (IMS), a leading platform for electronic music culture, education, and industry, has announced its expansion to Dubai with the inaugural IMS Dubai. Set to take place on November 14-15 at the W Hotel Dubai – Mina Seyahi, this marks IMS’s first foray into the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region, responding to its growing significance as a cultural and industry hub.
For seventeen years, IMS has been a cornerstone event in Ibiza, uniting the global electronic music community to explore trends, innovations, and challenges within the industry. This new edition in Dubai reflects the increasing importance of the MENA region in driving investment, culture, and innovation in electronic music.
Supported by partners AlphaTheta and Beatport, IMS Dubai will feature a two-day summit bringing together leading artists, thought leaders, and industry stakeholders. The event will explore the intersections of music, finance, culture, and technology within the MENA region. Key themes include investment, entrepreneurship, business growth, and the celebration of MENA’s rich cultural heritage and evolving music scene.
Dubai: A New Epicentre for Electronic Music
Dubai’s selection as the host city underscores its growing influence on the global music scene. Known for its vibrant cultural landscape and dynamic approach to the arts, Dubai offers a fitting backdrop for IMS’s expansion. The city’s flourishing nightlife and burgeoning DJ scene make it an ideal location for fostering cross-cultural exchanges and new collaborations within the electronic music community.
The event will feature prominent speakers such as Maha ElNabawi, Managing Editor of Billboard Arabia, who will deliver the opening keynote. Aloki Batra, CEO of Five Hospitality & The Pacha Group, will discuss “Culture Tourism: Dubai & Ibiza Duality,” while Janet Ashak of YouTube and Karima Damir from Warner Music ME will also contribute their insights. Anghami’s Salam Kmeid and Timmy Mowafi of SceneNoise will lead discussions on the MENA market’s unique opportunities and challenges.
Exploring MENA’s Music Landscape
The SDX 6040 screening solution features a powerful 160kV generator for exceptional X-ray image quality, enabling precise threat detection and reducing misinterpretation risks. Its smart image display, with organic stripping and enhancement modes, offers superior differentiation between materials, crucial for detecting contraband.
Other notable speakers include Philipp Straub of Soho Garden, Deian Markov of The Artist Network, and Marjana Jaidi of Oasis Festival. They will provide insights into the region’s event and talent landscape. International brands like Tomorrowland will showcase their Terra Solis venture, while Nathan Jordan of Defected Records will discuss their regional entry challenges. Reed Smith’s Amir Ahmad will offer an overview of regional investment, and Sophia Kearney and Finlay Johnson will address rights and royalty challenges in the MENA region.
The summit will also feature performances and discussions from notable artists such as Deep Dish, Abdell Rahman of Gawdat, British-Lebanese DJ Saliah, and rising talents Yasmeen Selectress and Parvané. US-based producer Stryv will be interviewed by IMS co-founder Pete Tong about his genre-defining work.
A Platform for Growth and Innovation
IMS Dubai aims to inspire growth, support, and investment in the electronic music sector, addressing the unique cultural and industry challenges faced by musicians and startups. The summit will include a series of exclusive evening events, featuring local and international talent, culminating in a closing celebration at Hive, Soho Garden.
IMS founders noted, “IMS has long been dedicated to exploring trends and innovations within the electronic music community. Our expansion to Dubai represents a strategic move to engage with emerging cultural hubs and support the global music scene’s evolution. With a focus on unity and inclusivity, IMS and Beatport are committed to creating a safer and more collaborative space for all.”
Badges for IMS Dubai will be available from September 19, with prices starting from DH435. Discounted rates are offered for students, under-27s, and People of Determination. One percent of all delegate and sponsor income will be donated to EarthPercent, IMS’s charity climate action partner.
For more details about IMS Dubai, to schedule a demonstration, or to submit speaker and session applications, visit IMS Dubai.