UAE cinema industry records AED 800m in revenue in 2024

The UAE's cinema industry generated AED 800 million in revenue last year, fueled by an increase in audience engagement, the Emirates News Agency said. 

With 1,262 films screened and 15 million tickets sold, "UAE cinemas delivered a powerful cinematic experience, bolstering public trust in the nation's commitment to high-quality entertainment and cementing its position as a leader in showcasing cutting-edge film productions."

The Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, said that these achievements reflect the Council’s commitment to enhancing the competitiveness of the film and e-gaming industries and strengthening their role in the media and entertainment landscape by developing regulatory frameworks and fostering a business-friendly environment for the growth of entertainment content in the UAE. 

He explained that several key factors contributed to this growth, foremost among them being the diversity of cinematic content.

“UAE cinemas offer films in more than twenty global languages, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity and affirming its status as a global destination for the film industry.”

Al Shehhi underscored the UAE Media Council’s commitment to monitoring media content and assigning appropriate age classifications to ensure that films and video games align with different age groups. This allows families to select suitable content for their children and enhances public confidence in the quality of cinematic and gaming experiences in the country.

He added that the UAE’s integrated services and ease of doing business have strengthened its position as a leading hub for the media industry. The country boasts advanced infrastructure, streamlined procedures, and a flexible regulatory system that supports investments in the film and gaming sectors.

The UAE Media Council continues to play a central role in boosting the competitiveness of the film and gaming sectors by updating policies and regulations, launching strategic partnerships, and fostering a supportive environment for talent and creativity. This drives growth in both sectors and cements the UAE’s position as one of the world’s leading hubs for media content creation.