Dubai will continue to expand media workforce

Dubai has become a world-renowned media hub that is well-placed to consolidate its position as home to regional and international players, according to one of the industry's leading lights.

Abdullatif Al Sayegh, CEO of Arab Media Group, yesterday told the second session of the Dubai-Hamburg Business Forum the key to the emirate's success was its global perspective, with a local focus.

And he spelled out the challenges that lay ahead in strengthening the pioneering work of Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Studio City and the International Media Production Zone.

"We must focus on the workforce," he said.

"Their diversity is the key to innovation and will deliver desired results. Success will stem from them staying hungry and aggressive," Al Sayegh told the 200-plus delegates.

At a time when job cuts have become the global solution to sustain balance sheets by reducing expenditure, Al Sayegh said Dubai's expanding media would buck the trend and employ more professionals.

"We must attract more talent. With rapid growth, there is a dire need for professionals at every level and function. From marketing and operations to production and design, you can be rest assured that we will scout for the best talent the world has to offer," he said.

The presence in Dubai of the world's most renowned technology, advertising, media and production companies would not only continue to attract senior professionals, but would further improve standards of excellence already achieved, he said.

"While growth has slowed, the Middle East and North Africa is still growing," Al Sayegh said.

"Future development only means that players across the media value chain stand to benefit considerably from the region. This is in stark contrast to the weakening American media industry."

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