Dubai Press Club releases pioneering research on podcasting industry in the Arab world – UAE

Dubai Press Club Releases Groundbreaking Report on Podcasting Industry in the Arab World

Dubai Press Club has unveiled a comprehensive report titled ‘Generating Insights into the Podcasting Industry in the Arab World’ at the 22nd Arab Media Forum. This groundbreaking report is the first of its kind in the region and sheds light on the evolution and growth of podcasting in the Arab world, drawing comparisons with global trends, identifying growth opportunities, and outlining recommendations for the sector’s development.

The report was launched during a press conference attended by key media professionals, prominent Arab digital audio content creators, and representatives from local, regional, and international media outlets. Dr. Maitha Buhumaid, Director of Dubai Press Club, emphasized the importance of this report in anticipating the future of the podcasting industry and fostering growth and innovation in the region.

Dr. Buhumaid stated, “The report reflects Dubai’s efforts to anticipate the future of vital industries and develop proactive initiatives to propel growth and innovation. It identifies the key challenges and opportunities ahead, and the measures needed to advance the digital audio content sector. Reports like this are crucial for preparing the ground for transformation, shaping a better future for the media, and keeping pace with rapid changes.”

The report highlights the preferences of Arab audiences, with 80% of participants considering podcasts delivered in Arabic to have a greater reach in the Arab world compared to those in English. Additionally, 78% found podcasts in local Arabic dialects to be more influential than those in standard Arabic. The report also anticipates a rise in podcast listeners in the Arab world, particularly in the Gulf region, with the UAE leading in podcast listening hours.

Moreover, the report identifies untapped opportunities for the development of the Arab podcasting industry and offers solutions to address challenges such as creating industry standards, ensuring financial sustainability, and developing training programs. It emphasizes the need for metrics, data analytics, and specialized podcasters equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to create quality content.

The study also recommends the creation of more diverse and creative Arabic podcast content, the establishment of high-quality standards, and the development of platforms and applications tailored to Arab audiences’ needs. Supporting Arab podcasters in creating viable business models and monetization strategies is deemed critical for industry growth, along with fostering collaboration within the community of Arab podcasters.

In conclusion, the report sets the stage for the future of podcasting in the Arab world, offering a roadmap for industry players to capitalize on the sector’s potential and drive growth. With the launch of the ‘Arab Podcast Programme’, Dubai Press Club aims to foster the growth of audio content creation in the region based on the findings of this groundbreaking report. The initiative signals a new era of innovation and development in the Arab podcasting industry, positioning Dubai as a hub for media and creative industries.