Musicians and creatives in Dubai are set to benefit from expanded global exposure and professional support after Spotify signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture). The signing was witnessed by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture, marking a significant moment for the emirate's creative economy.
A First-of-Its-Kind Public–Private Music Partnership
The MoU establishes a first-of-its-kind public–private partnership in Dubai, creating a new collaborative model aimed at strengthening the emirate's creative and cultural industries. The agreement was signed by Her Excellency Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, and Gustav Gyllenhammar, Senior Vice President of Markets and Subscriptions at Spotify.
By combining Spotify's global reach and data-driven insights with Dubai Culture's cultural strategy, the partnership seeks to elevate local artists while aligning with international best practices and global music trends.
Expanding Opportunities for Emirati and UAE-Based Artists
Under the MoU, both entities will collaborate to expand access for Emirati and UAE-based musicians to resources and platforms that support long-term career growth. Key areas of focus include:
- Increased visibility on global streaming platforms - Access to professional development tools and data-driven insights - Programmes designed to improve competitiveness within the music sector - Deeper audience understanding through specialised analytics
Artists will also gain access to existing Spotify programmes operating in the region — including RADAR Arabia, which supports emerging talent, and Fresh Finds Arabia, which spotlights rising voices. The partnership also includes practical career-sustaining support to help artists navigate an increasingly competitive global music landscape.
Joint Programmes and Music-Led Creative Initiatives
As part of the Spotify Dubai Culture partnership, both organisations will co-deliver joint programmes and develop long-term initiatives that encourage:
- Artistic expression - Cultural exchange - Innovation within Dubai's music ecosystem
These initiatives aim to ensure sustainability while creating meaningful opportunities for creatives at different stages of their careers, from early-stage artists to established professionals.
Spotlighting Dubai's Growing Music Community
The partnership will also see the curation and delivery of music-led projects that highlight Dubai's diverse and evolving creative community. These efforts align with the emirate's broader vision to:
- Strengthen Dubai's position as a global cultural centre - Serve as an incubator for creativity - Attract and retain creative talent from around the world
Dubai Culture also provides existing support mechanisms — including grants, artist residencies, and learning and talent development opportunities — that will complement the new Spotify collaboration.
Supporting Dubai's Vision for Global Cultural Leadership
By fostering collaboration, innovation, and global exposure, the Dubai Culture–Spotify MoU supports Dubai's ambition to become a leading international hub for culture, creativity, and talent development. The deal signals a growing appetite for high-profile private sector partnerships in building the emirate's creative economy.
