DAY 1 - 04 November 2025
DAY 2 - 05 November 2025
9:30 | Keynote Session- Unlocking Sports ROI: An 8-Step Demand-Driven Framework by Parrot Analytics
Amit Devani | Global VP, Partner Insights
Amit Devani
Global VP, Partner Insights | United Kingdom
Amit Devani is the Global VP, Partner Insights at Parrot Analytics, leading the EMEA team with a focus on the Middle East. He drives content strategies through data-driven insights, helping major players across the region make smarter, audience-backed decisions. Before joining Parrot Analytics, Amit was instrumental in growing Channel 4’s VOD platform, All 4, by building and leading its digital analytics team. His expertise spans audience behaviour, content acquisition, programming strategy, and market trend analysis. Amit has a strong presence at leading global industry events, frequently contributing his insights at conferences like C21's Content London, FutureTV, ASI, CartoonNext, and CABSAT.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Thursday,
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10:00 | Session 2- DICM Talks - Ramadan And Beyond: The Year Round Content Formula For Success
Bilal Dayani
CEO | United Arab Emirates
CEO
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Ali Ghamlouch | Co-Founder of Whitebee Media
Ali Ghamlouch
Co-Founder of Whitebee Media | United Arab Emirates
Ali Ghamlouch is the co-founder of Whitebee Media, with a track record of shaping some of the Arab world’s most talked-about original titles. As the former head of originals and short-form content at Shahid, he helped redefine digital storytelling, earning a nomination for an International Emmy Award. With over 18 years in the industry, his work bridges creativity and strategy across development and production. Beyond the screen, he’s shared his knowledge as a university professor and mentor to over 40 media startups across the Arab region and Turkey. Ghamlouch remains an active voice in the media space through talks, workshops, consultancy and creative collaborations
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Thursday,
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Moderator:
Sarah Btaddini | Managing Director
Sarah Btaddini
Managing Director | United Arab Emirates
Sarah Btaddini is the Managing Director of ThreeSixtyPlus, where she leads innovative storytelling and strategic content development. She is a media specialist with nearly two decades of experience across local and international entertainment networks and digital platforms. Renowned for her expertise in content strategy, she has led successful initiatives across production, acquisition, syndication, and media operations. Since 2018, Sarah has played a key role in the success of several co-productions, original dramas, and entertainment shows.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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11:00 | Session 3- DICM Talks - Inside the Mind of a Commissioner: Trends, Needs, and Deal-Making
Tariq AlIbrahim
Director | Saudi Arabia
Director of MBC 1, MBC Drama & Shahid
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Moderator:
Badih FATTOUH
Founder & CEO | United Arab Emirates
Creative Venture Founder & CEO Badih Fattouh has been working in the TV broadcast industry in MENA region since the 90s when he participated in launching New TV & Future TV in Lebanon. In 1999 he joined MBC group where he worked for 13 years becoming the group’s director of content overlooking Arabic content acquisition and commissioning in addition to international format acquisition. In 2012 he briefly headed CBC in Egypt as the network’s CEO before establishing Creative Venture out of Dubai as a boutique production and distribution company. During his network’s career he participated in bringing to the screen numerous successful shows (Bob El Hara, King Farouk, Al Barnameg, The Voice) to name a few. Creative Venture produced and co-produced several shows such as: Sak El Bamboo, Khalsana Be Shayaka, AI: The Future is Now Beauty Match among others.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Thursday,
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12:00 | Session 4- Welcome Speech
12:30 | Session 5- Globo Showcase
Rodrigo Nascimento | Head of International Sales
Rodrigo Nascimento
Head of International Sales | Portugal
Rodrigo Nascimento has built a diverse career across technology, finance, management, commercial planning, and customer success. In 2025, he took on the role of Head of International Sales for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, where he is responsible for developing partnerships and managing international advertising. With a professional journey spanning 27 years, Rodrigo brings 10 years of experience at Sky Brasil (Pay TV) and has been part of Globo for over 17 years. His academic background includes a degree in Industrial Engineering, a postgraduate diploma in Project Management, specializations in Corporate Governance and Strategy, and a Master’s degree in Business Management.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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13:00 | Lunch & Networking
14:00 | Session 6- DICM Talks - Stories in Seconds: How Micro Drama and Social Platforms Are Redefining Storytelling
Tony Saab
Founder | United Arab Emirates
Tony Saab is the Founder of Tesliya Entertainment OTT platform and a seasoned media executive and Member of the International Academy of Television, Arts & Sciences, with over a decade of leadership in OTT, broadcast, and entertainment. Former SVP Content & Partnerships at StarzPlay. As Vice President of Content & Production at Intigral, he leads a team of 70+ specialists across production, acquisition, and content delivery for Jawwy TV and Dawri Plus, managing P&L and driving original productions that have positioned Intigral as a regional OTT leader. Over the past 11 years, Tony has been instrumental in building high-performance broadcast infrastructure, securing strategic content partnerships, and enhancing the viewing experience for millions across MENA.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Cassandra Yang
CEO | China
Cassandra Yang, CEO of RisingJoy, is a veteran in content licensing business for decades, and a pioneer of vertical micro drama licensing globally. She has extensive networks in the media and content industry both in China and internationally with her career journey from Director of International Business, Shanghai Media Group (SMG) to Head of Content Licensing and Partnership, Turner China. When she builds up RisingJoy, a leading content licensing hub specialized in vertical micro drama, her vision is to bring premium titles as well as advanced knowledge to the world, and build a thriving eco-system to support the industry growth “from micro to big”. As an entrepreneur, she has faith in the same route of micro drama: The Micro Can Sparkle in the Future.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Oumaima Fatih | Growth Manager
Oumaima Fatih
Growth Manager | United Arab Emirates
Oumaima Fatih, Growth Manager at Blinx, the region’s first Gen-Z focused digital media hub. She leads monetization and strategic partnerships, working on developing business models that connect brands with young, digitally native audiences across the Arab region. With over 7 years of experience in the media industry in Asia, Oumaima brings a unique global perspective and deep expertise in growth strategies, content innovation, and cross-border collaborations.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Timothy Oh | General Manager, Southeast Asia
Timothy Oh
General Manager, Southeast Asia | China
Timothy Oh is the General Manager for Southeast Asia at COL Group, where he spearheads the company’s international marketing and PR efforts while driving expansion across licensing, content distribution, and strategic partnerships. Based in Singapore, Tim plays a pivotal role in establishing COL’s global presence and reputation as a leader in microdrama and original IP
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Moderator:
Maria Rua Aguete | Head of Media & Entertainment
Maria Rua Aguete
Head of Media & Entertainment | United Kingdom
Maria Rua Aguete leads the media and entertainment team at Omdia. The team’s research on media and tech companies is deep and extensive, leveraging long-standing relationships with operators in all of the 100+ markets covered by the group, resulting in the most comprehensive source of television and operator market intelligence in the world. Maria has collected many accolades throughout a storied career, including being named as one of the top 100 media leaders in the UK. Maria holds a first-class degree in economics and business studies from Vigo University in Spain, and an MBA from Cardiff Business School in Wales. She is a regular speaker at events like IBC and Mobile World Congress
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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15:00 | Session 7- DICM Talks - Reality Meets Reel: The Evolving Power of Docuseries in Global Content
Fabio Etienne-Tinchant | VP Sales
Fabio Etienne-Tinchant
VP Sales | United Kingdom
Fabio Etienne-Tinchant is an experienced sales executive with over a decade of expertise in entertainment content sales across EMEA. As VP of Sales at FIFTH SEASON, he manages the London-based sales team, overseeing distribution and licensing deals for film and TV content across linear and digital platforms in key international markets. Prior to this, he worked at Lionsgate between 2014 and 2017 as the Executive Director of Sales EMEA, expanding distribution and revenue through effective negotiations of licensing contracts. Etienne-Tinchant began his career in the industry at ITV Studios, where he worked from 2010 to 2014 as a Sales Executive for South-East EMEA, consistently exceeding sales expectations and securing profitable licensing deals. Throughout his career, he has built a strong reputation for expertise in content sales and account management, with a focus on linear and digital platform distribution across diverse markets.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Ihab HAMMOUD
Chairman/Owner | United Arab Emirates
A seasoned media executive and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in television production, event management, and the food and hospitality industry. As the Chairman and Owner of Media Plus/Pro/Sports since 2006, I have overseen a diverse portfolio of successful productions. Beyond media, I also have an executive role in hospitality, managing ventures such as "KOGOWA,", and "BOBO FOU," and other projects. With a strong foundation in communication arts and project management, I also held leadership roles at MBC Group, Future TV, and other major networks, producing acclaimed programs.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Madonna Khafaja | Co-founder & Managing Director for Whitebee Media
Madonna Khafaja
Co-founder & Managing Director for Whitebee Media | United Arab Emirates
Madonna Khafaja is the Co-founder & Managing Director for Whitebee Media with over 15 years of experience in the production, storytelling, and media programs. She acted before as Regional Manager for the International Center for journalists, as well as documentary maker & producer with the BBC and Media consultant for the DW Arabic in the MENA region. Whitebee is a conceptualization and content company based in Dubai providing content services for the entertainment industry from format adaptation, remakes and localization to creating original ideas and concepts from script to screen including script doctoring for drama series, movies and doc-series.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Thursday,
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Moderator:
Michel Zreik | Creative Producer & Formats Adviser
Michel Zreik
Creative Producer & Formats Adviser | United Arab Emirates
Michel Zreik, is a Creative Producer and Formats Adviser, whose illustrious journey unfolds over 15 years in the industry. Michel has a remarkable tapestry of experiences that set him apart in the world of content production for linear and digital outlets, within a solid background in GCC content orientation and TV Formats creation/ adaptation, with emphasis on Entertainment and Lifestyle in scripted and unscripted formats. He was the youngest university lecturer at ALBA Beirut, taking over Formatting, Digital Content Adaptation and E-Journalism courses. Prior to this, Michel worked across major Media outlets like MBC, DMC, LBCI, Saudi Channel, SBC and Dar Al Hayat.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Thursday,
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16:00 | Session 8- Bridging Worlds: How MENA Productions Are Going Global by Fabric
Federico Eberhardt | Global Sales Manager
Federico Eberhardt
Global Sales Manager | Argentina
Federico is an Account Executive at Fabric Data, holding a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. He’s 25 years old and has been working in the industry for three years now, during which he has delivered presentations at diverse international events, sharing insights focused on different countries and regions. He started as a Jr. Commercial Assistant, supporting lead generation, creating sales materials, and organizing industry events, including managing reservations and travel arrangements. At 23, he was promoted to Account Manager, taking on global client relationship management. In his current role as Account Executive, he leads the full sales cycle, from prospecting to closing, across global markets.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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16:30 | Session 09- Spotlight Stories: The DICM 2025 Pitching Challenge
10:00 | Session 11 - Learnings from Ramadan: Shifts in Media and Streaming Behavior by IPSOS
Reem Kassem | Research Manager
Reem Kassem
Research Manager | United Arab Emirates
Reem has extensive experience in market research and is an expert in both traditional and digital media. Based in Dubai, she has over a decade of experience at Ipsos, working with leading global media organizations such as MBC, Google, France Médias Monde, BBC, Yango, etc... Her work spans a diverse range of research initiatives, including audience measurement, media product development, market trend analysis, TV grid optimization, and channel performance evaluation. With a strong focus on digital media, she has deep expertise in OTT platforms, audio streaming, podcasts, influencer marketing, and gaming. Reem excels at transforming data-driven insights into actionable strategies, helping media clients optimize their offerings and drive measurable success in an evolving media landscape
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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10:30 | Session 13- Screening by UNICO
11:00 | Session 14- DICM Talks - Why Global Markets Should Pay Attention to Arabic Cinema
Hussein Fakhri | CCO and Executive Producer
Hussein Fakhri
CCO and Executive Producer | Qatar
A graduate of Dublin Business School, Hussein Fakhri began his career pioneering digital advertising in Ireland before joining Qatar Airways as Marketing Manager in 2004. He then went on to establish successful ventures in advertising, film production, and talent services. Currently Chief Commercial Officer and Executive Producer at Katara Studios, he is overseeing the production of premium film and TV projects"
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Ali F. Mostafa
Filmmaker | United Arab Emirates
Pioneering Emirati Filmmaker With a Master’s degree from the London Film School, Emirati filmmaker Ali F. Mostafa has been a driving force in shaping contemporary cinema in the UAE. His debut feature City of Life (2009), the first international Emirati film, premiered at the Dubai International Film Festival and became a regional success, establishing him as one of the leading voices in Arab cinema. He went on to direct From A to B (2014), the first Emirati film to open the Abu Dhabi Film Festival, and The Worthy (2016), which premiered at the BFI London Film Festival and was later streamed on Netflix. In 2024, he completed Khattaf, a suspense drama, and in early 2025 directed City of Life: Continuum, the long-awaited follow-up to his groundbreaking debut, set for release in late 2025 into 2026. Beyond his films, Mostafa continues to direct and produce across the region, championing original and authentic storytelling from the Middle East.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Mohamed Hefzy | Founding Director at Film Clinic
Mohamed Hefzy
Founding Director at Film Clinic | Egypt
Mohamed Hefzy is an Egyptian screenwriter and producer, with an evolving filmography of more than 40 feature films including worldwide acclaimed titles Clash (2016), Sheikh Jackson (2017), Feathers (2021), and Voy! Voy! Voy! (2023). He served as a jury member in various international festivals including the 2022 Sundance Film Festival and the 75th Venice International Film Festival. As of its 40th edition and for four consecutive years; Mohamed Hefzy was the appointed President of the Cairo International Film Festival
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Gianluca Chakra
CEO | United Arab Emirates
Gianluca Chakra is a trailblazing film executive and producer who has redefined the landscape of cinema distribution and production in the Arab world. Born and raised between Rome and Beirut, he founded Front Row Filmed Entertainment in 2003 in Dubai, identifying a critical gap in the Middle Eastern market for bold, auteur-driven content. Over the past two decades, Chakra has turned Front Row into one of the region’s most influential film distribution companies, releasing over 120 films annually across theatrical, digital, and broadcast platforms. He was also one of the first in the Middle East to embrace digital disruption—pioneering premium VOD partnerships with global platforms like Netflix, iTunes, and Google Play at a time when the industry was still tethered to traditional release models. Under his leadership, Front Row has become synonymous with fearless curation, bringing independent and studio titles alike to audiences across the GCC, Levant, and North Africa. In recent years, Chakra has stepped into producing, with credits including the Arabic-language Netflix hit Perfect Strangers and the internationally acclaimed The Sand Castle, the latter becoming the most-watched Arabic-language film globally on Netflix in 2025. He continues to push boundaries with upcoming productions like Boomah, a Jordanian crime thriller, and the Cliffhanger reboot, an ambitious international co-production. Recognized by Variety as one of the 500 most influential people in global media for six consecutive years (2019–2025), Chakra remains a vocal advocate for Arab storytelling, risk-taking cinema, and dismantling the region’s entrenched industry gatekeepers. Through his work, he has not only transformed the business of film in the MENA region but also contributed to shifting global perceptions of Arab cinema… one bold story at a time.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Moderator:
Zeina Merheb
Head of AV | United Arab Emirates
Zeina is the Head of AV Publicity at VOX Studios (Majid Al Futtaim), where she uses her skills as a film strategist to shape impactful publicity campaigns and enhance production value. As a creative producer, Zeina ensures that each project’s vision and strategy align to create successful releases. Previously, Zeina founded Notabene Productions, developing production systems and providing agencies and clients with innovative tools. She has worked with local and international clients such as Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, L’Oreal Group, Wella, Nestle, Etisalat, Philips, Almarai, and many others. Her creativity and strategic insight earned her a nomination at the Malmo Arab Film Festival (Sweden) for Best Film Concept Development, making her a driving force in the MENA film industry.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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12:00 | Session 15- In Conversation with Mazen Laham – Formats Unplugged: Local Originals vs. Global Hits
Mazen Laham | Owner & Managing Director
Mazen Laham
Owner & Managing Director | United Arab Emirates
With over 25 years of experience in television production and creative endeavors, Mazen Laham is a seasoned executive known for his ability to bring innovative concepts to life. As an executive producer for more than 15 years, he has managed numerous local and international TV formats, demonstrating expertise in handling large teams, production crews, and celebrities. In 2014, Mazen assumed the role of Owner and Managing Director at Different Productions, an independent entity specializing in content creation, adaptation, and consultation for both Arab and International markets. Under his leadership, Different Productions has produced acclaimed shows like Dubai Bling, It’s Ok , Shark Tank Dubai, Astronauts and many others , solidifying its reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. Driven by a passion for excellence, Mazen Laham continues to shape the landscape of television entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Moderator:
Heba Korayem
Founder | United Arab Emirates
Heba Korayem is a distribution Consultant at HConsult, and founder of CoProduction Salon, a platform connecting Arabic and international producers, investors, and platforms for film and TV co-production. With a background in both investment evaluation and entertainment media, she has advised leading broadcasters and platforms, B2B media events, and government entities on content investment, market growth, and cross-regional collaboration.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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12:30 | Session 16- From Region to Resonance: MENA’s Next Creative Wave
Amit Devani | Global VP, Partner Insights
Amit Devani
Global VP, Partner Insights | United Kingdom
Amit Devani is the Global VP, Partner Insights at Parrot Analytics, leading the EMEA team with a focus on the Middle East. He drives content strategies through data-driven insights, helping major players across the region make smarter, audience-backed decisions. Before joining Parrot Analytics, Amit was instrumental in growing Channel 4’s VOD platform, All 4, by building and leading its digital analytics team. His expertise spans audience behaviour, content acquisition, programming strategy, and market trend analysis. Amit has a strong presence at leading global industry events, frequently contributing his insights at conferences like C21's Content London, FutureTV, ASI, CartoonNext, and CABSAT.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Thursday,
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Speaker:
Rasha Audi | Media Research & Insights Lead
Rasha Audi
Media Research & Insights Lead | United Arab Emirates
With over a decade of experience in the media industry, Rasha has established herself as a media insights expert, working with regional and global publishers and broadcasters. Specializing in market analysis, media landscape, and audience understanding, Rasha possesses a deep understanding of industry trends. As a senior insights manager, she leverages her extensive experience in diverse research methodologies and data analysis to provide actionable insights that guide the development of content while ensuring alignment with audience interests. Rasha has worked across diverse sectors, including FMCG, Automotive, and Luxury, but her true expertise lies in media. Before joining Rise Studios, she spent almost 10 years as a Media Consultant at Omnicom Media Group and Regional Research & Insights Lead at Snap Inc. Rasha holds a BA in Business & Human Resources from Notre Dame University (NDU) in Lebanon, which has enriched her love for both numbers and people. This unique combination of skills helps her bridge the gap between data-driven insights and human-centered storytelling.”
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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14:00 | Session 17- DICM Talks -Women Shaping the Future of MENA Content
Elzahraa Essam
Co-Founder | Egypt
Creator & writer of the first Arabic drama bite in MENA “The Quack Family Dailies” seasons 1,2 and 3 now featuring on Shahid Winner of the best content strategy of the year at BroadcastproMe Awards in 2022 for my company Captain Boy CO-FOUNDER OF CAPTAIN BOY FOR CONTENT & BRANDING based in Cairo & Dubai with a bulk partnership for content production with Warner Brothers Discovery Freelance format producer with OSN HALA SHABAB & SHADOWS FOR DRAMA & MOVIES PRODUCTIONS owned by Mega star Ahmed Helmy Format creator and head of the creative team of THE FAMOUS EGYPTIAN TALENT SHOW ‘ NEGM ELSHAAB’ FEATURING CHEB KHALED, HAKIM & NICOLE SABA Producer & creative director OF 11 SHOWS ON FOOD NETWORK & FATAFEAT APPS Format creator of “SIBA’S BITES” cooking show with the world renowned CHEF SIBA MOTONGANA ON FOOD NETWORK & “ FROM THE HEART” WITH CHEF JENNY MORRIS ON FOOD NETWORK
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Mariam AlSerkal
Founder | United Arab Emirates
I am Mariam Al Serkal, an Emirati producer and director, and the founder of Triplets on Set, a boutique production company dedicated to creating authentic, impactful stories that resonate deeply with audiences. At its core, the ethos of Triplets on Set is to explore, evoke, and expand: exploring new narratives, evoking emotion, and expanding perspectives. My work blends documentary and drama, crafting stories that stir emotions and encourage audiences to see the world from fresh perspectives. With over 20 years in the media industry, from directing at a young age to leading creative teams in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, I’ve always sought stories with purpose. My journey as a filmmaker has taken me to international festivals and earned recognition for films that explore identity and connection. Today, through Triplets on Set, I channel that experience into creating meaningful projects across both fiction and non-fiction.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
FATIHA BENSALEM | Director – e& life
FATIHA BENSALEM
Director – e& life | United Arab Emirates
Fatiha Bensalem is a distinguished media executive and innovator in kids’ and family entertainment. Recognized as a trendsetter with a deep understanding of audience engagement and market evolution, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of children’s content across the MENA region and beyond. Under her leadership, ejunior Kids Channel has maintained its position as a market leader, while she successfully led the launch of Bloom Preschool Channel — a dedicated destination addressing the growing need for safe, educational, and inspiring entertainment for young audiences. Her expertise also spans anime, Western entertainment, and digital strategy, ensuring diverse, high-quality, and engaging content experiences for all audiences. A recipient of the prestigious e& Group CEO Award, Fatiha’s achievements reflect her strategic vision, creative excellence, and commitment to driving innovation and growth within e&. Beyond her professional success, Fatiha is a long-standing juror and active member of the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, contributing to the global dialogue on excellence in television. She also serves on the advisory board of Stirling University Ras Al Khaimah, helping shape academic and professional pathways for the next generation of media leaders. Deeply committed to CSR initiatives, she continues to use media as a platform to educate, empower, and drive positive social change among children and families. With a unique blend of creative insight and commercial acumen, Fatiha continues to set new standards in content strategy and innovation.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Buthaina BinHader | Head of Majid Kids
Buthaina BinHader
Head of Majid Kids | United Arab Emirates
Buthaina Bin Hadher is a media with over 22 years of experience in television production, direction, and management. Her career journey began in 2003 at Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI), where she worked as an assistant director and later transitioned into head of TV directors and then moved to outsorced proudction. I was ownered to received recognition from the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Award for Governmental Excellence for the success of the television program "Qareeb Al Manal". After spending almost 18 years in the field with Dubai Media Incorporated, I made an administrative shift in 2018 to join Abu Dhabi Media Network as the first head of the production department for MAJID TV- kids content, and then from 2023 till today, i am a Head of the operations department for the Women's and Children's platform infcluding Zahrat Al Khaleej magazibe and Manager of Majid’s platforms contet that inclues Majid magazine, MAJID TV channel and all social media platforms.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Moderator:
Aya Hammad | Marketing, PR & Digital Manager
Aya Hammad
Marketing, PR & Digital Manager | United Arab Emirates
Aya Hammad - Marketing, PR & Digital Manager (MENA) | Warner Bros. Discovery | Kids Brands With over 15 years of experience in the broadcast media industry, Aya Hammad leads digital content production and management for the Kids Brands portfolio across the MENA region at Warner Bros. Discovery. She is responsible for shaping and executing the strategy behind the brands’ non-linear presence, ensuring high-quality, locally relevant content that resonates with Gen Alpha across multiple platforms and digital spaces. Aya’s expertise lies in new media, editorial, and marketing communications, with a strong focus on Arabic kids’ content. She is certified in Audience Growth and Content Strategy by YouTube and holds a B.S. in Multimedia Design, along with a minor in Design Management and multiple certifications in Digital Marketing. Driven by a passion for storytelling, innovation, and diversity, Aya’s mission is to create authentic, immersive brand experiences that maximize platform potential while aligning with the values and vision of Warner Bros. Discovery. She thrives on continuous learning and meaningful collaboration, always seeking to push creative boundaries and connect with audiences in impactful ways
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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15:00 | Session 18- DICM Talks - Beyond Hollywood: The Rise of New Content Capitals Worldwide
Boris Khanchalyan | Deputy General Director
Boris Khanchalyan
Deputy General Director | Russia
Boris is a media executive and serves as the Deputy General Director of Gazprom-Media Holding JSC. He is also a co-founder of «Insight People», the largest production center in Russia with 2,000 exclusive bloggers and a total reach of 1.5 billion people. He is also co-founder of YARKO, a leading children’s animation studio, with over 15 brands and content broadcast across major TV channels and online platforms in Russia and abroad. Mr. Khanchalyan was a member of the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation, focusing on SME development. From 2022, he played a key role in developing Gazprom-Media Holding, increasing viewership, and optimizing its operations. Currently, he oversees the GPM KIT Group of Companies and drives Gazprom-Media Holding's international cooperation with the UAE, China, Saudi Arabia, India, and Uzbekistan.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Ziad Kebbi
Founder | United Arab Emirates
Ziad Kebbi is a producer, founder of RefleKT Media, and one of the MENA region’s most persistent voices for high-craft Arab storytelling. Previously CEO of Blue Engine Studios, Ziad has built and run labels tied to Endemol, Sony Pictures Television and Talpa Global, guiding format adaptations and originals across the region—including franchises like The Voice and the MBC hit Million Dollar Land. His focus now: the decisive convergence of creators, showrunners and responsible AI. Ziad’s thesis is simple and ruthless: rights win weekends, stories win the year—and in an AI decade, credibility (consent, content credentials, cultural truth) is the new production value. He advocates a commissioning model that starts with audience behavior, scales with creator collaboration, and travels because it is precise, not generic. Between articles like Of AI and Men and a forthcoming standards initiative for Arab TV, Ziad is pushing for a future where our screens feel alive again—must-watch series beside live sport, discovery that respects the viewer, and Arab voices confident enough to stand anywhere in the world.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
Vinod Johri
Sales Director | India
Vinod Johri is Executive Vice President and Business Head, Syndication, India & Global Markets at ZEE. With over 17 years of experience across Global markets, he leads ZEE’s syndication business worldwide, driving content monetization, global partnerships, and strategic expansion across linear and digital platforms. Vinod has pioneered innovative distribution models and new monetisation avenues for Zee’s vast content library to strengthen ZEE’s international footprint. He holds an MBA from IMT Ghaziabad where he secured 3rd rank, B. Tech. from NIT Jaipur where he secured 2nd rank and has completed executive LEAD program at Stanford GSB where he was awarded Distinguished Scholar Award.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Speaker:
MANJYOT SANDHU | CEO & Co-Founder
MANJYOT SANDHU
CEO & Co-Founder | United Arab Emirates
Manjyot Sandhu is a globally respected media executive with over 20 years of leadership experience across some of the world’s most iconic entertainment companies, including The Walt Disney Company, Star TV, and Zee Entertainment. Throughout his career, he has consistently shaped the international content landscape through innovative strategies in content licensing, global acquisitions, and co-productions. Today, Manjyot serves as the Co-Founder & CEO of NARaTiV, a next-generation content distribution and acquisitions company. NARaTiV is a joint venture with Copyright Capital, one of the world’s largest creator funds, and is built to support both emerging and established content owners. The company operates with a global footprint, leveraging in-house AI tools and monetization infrastructure to serve platforms across CTV, AVOD, FAST, and Pay TV. With a sharp eye for cross-border collaboration and monetization trends, Manjyot continues to champion authentic storytelling and scalable content strategies across markets. His ability to combine creative intuition with commercial foresight makes him a sought-after speaker and advisor in the global media space.
Sessions by this speaker
Thursday,
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Moderator:
Rana Jerdak | Acquisition & Planning Supervisor
Rana Jerdak
Acquisition & Planning Supervisor | United Arab Emirates
Rana Jerdak is an accomplished Acquisition & Planning Supervisor at Al Mashhad, where she leverage her extensive experience in content acquisition and strategic programming. With a strong background in the media industry since 2014, Rana Jerdak previously held key roles at MBC Group TV, serving as a Senior Programming Executive and later as an Acquisition Executive. In these positions, Rana Jerdak improved her skills in identifying and securing high-quality content, developing programming strategies, and fostering relationships with content providers. Her expertise in market trends and audience preferences has consistently contributed to successful programming initiatives and audience growth. Passionate about delivering compelling content, Rana Jerdak is dedicated to enhancing the viewer experience and driving the success of Al Mashhad's programming lineup.

