IMS Dubai celebrated yesterday the day 2.
And here you have the highlights!
The organizers said:”Today we’ve heard from headline artists like Deep Dish, Adriatique and &Friends about their experiences playing and working in the region – and their excitement about the constant evolution of the scene in the different countries that make up the Middle East and North Africa. Cosmicat, widely hailed as the first superstar female DJ from Saudi Arabia, was a particular inspiration with her insights into the way female artists in the region are always conscious of the need for mutual support. A discussion on the women who are leading and shaping the industry in MENA reinforced how electronic music can open doors and opportunities for creativity, independence and self-expression here – as it does across the planet.
From taking MENA artists to the main stage to the opportunity to build an equitable royalties system in the region to a fascinating deep dive into Dubai’s growing underground scene, the main room sessions ranged far and wide across the industry, with lessons and inspiration for delegates from every sector.
In the Web3/Finance zone, two powerhouse sessions on investing in the region, moderated expertly by Spektra Academdy founder Lindi Delight, really spelled out what regional investors in music are looking for, with delegates walking away with not just a deep insight but almost a ‘how-to-do list’ to grow their projects.
Pacha / Five Hospitality’s CEO Aloki Batra later expanded on the theme, exploring Five’s acquisition of Pacha, the responsibility of owning such a culturally important brand, and Five Hospitality’s strong presence in the region. We also heard direct from two inspirational, regional start-up success stories in Lemonade and PODEO about what exactly it takes to succeed.
The daytime program finished up with the Beatport Sunset Sessions. As we looked out over Dubai Marina from Ginger Moon, &Friends was unveiled as the surprise guest soundtracking a chance to decompress, make those last minute connections, and celebrate the past two days of IMS Dubai – and the journey ahead for electronic music in MENA.
Soon we’ll be heading off to Soho Garden for the huge closing party, where headliners Deep Dish and Pete Tong b2b Echonomist (ably supported by Olympe and Klo) will put the final seal on the summit experience.
A huge thanks to the IMS Dubai co-hosts Pete Tong and Rawan Alzain, our partners Polkadot, AlphaTheta, KOR Protocol, Beatport.io, Mixmag MENA & Lemonade. Thank you to the whole IMS Dubai production, curation, content and delivery teams; W Dubai – Mina Seyahi for their hospitality and stunning location, Soho Garden, VNYL and Duck Soup; our production partners Levels AV and branding partners New Levels Dubai.
Most of all, to all the delegates, speakers and artists that have made this event such a huge success: thank you, and see you next year!”
Compliments to IMS Dubai!
