Dubai Media Incorporated was established in 2003 as the first key player to revolutionize the UAE’s media landscape with modern broadcast standards for information dissemination throughout the region. Officially, the organisation is known as the government of Dubai’s official media organization. DMI has played an instrumental role not only in broadcasting news but also in forming cultural narratives and entertainment in Dubai and beyond. Under the chairmanship of Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DMI controls different varieties of media outlets that run from print, radio, to television, all into one umbrella in approach on quality contents. This blog traces the history of the development of DMI and their influence on the media arena.

Before the establishment of Dubai Media Incorporated, the Government-owned media outlets of Dubai were then called the Dubai Department of Media. Already at that point, several channels such as Dubai TV, Dubai 33, and Dubai Business Channel, radio stations, and even papers like Al Bayan already existed. However, it wasn’t until 2003 that there was a more formal structure and strategy defined with the establishment of DMI as a state-owned entity. The plan was to integrate and modernize the media and its industry in the emirate, thus creating a media house essential to the fulfilment of the emirate’s hope of being at the forefront as a global holiday destination and an investment hub. Then came 2005 when the Arab Media Group-an affiliate of TECOM Investments-was formed. The radio stations and newspapers were absorbed into AMG, while DMI would focus primarily on television only. This involved the re-launching of the currently existing television channels with wider pan-Arab reach while, at the same time, promoting the development story of Dubai.

Dubai Media Incorporated has an umbrella that cuts across various media tools such as numerous popular television and radio stations and print media. Among the most prominent ones under DMI are Dubai TV, which was repositioned in 2004 to entertain and inform the Arab world. Today it is a flagship source for the MENA region for family-friendly programming, offering local productions and also some internationally licensed formats for further regional appeal. Sama Dubai, a local Emirati and Gulf service that featured regionally built traditions and culture, combining heritage with modernity, was established in 2005. Dubai One is also formerly known as Channel 33, rebadged and this new name provides Western content to the expatriate viewer and to the Arab audience through the use of subtitle international shows, films, and home-grown programs. Noor Dubai becomes a wholesome, wholesome channel in the matters of religion and culture targeting mature audiences once it started as a Muslim channel during Ramadan 2008. Dubai Sports was launched in 1998. It provides broad international coverage of sporting events like the Dubai World Cup and other major competitions.

The consolidation of AMG and DMI in 2009 marked a significant point in the history of the organization. The merger expanded the coverage and reach of DMI with the inclusion of AMG’s Noor Dubai TV, radio stations, and other print media assets. Through this merger, DMI emerged as one of the biggest media houses in the Middle East, consolidating radio, print, and digital under one management entity. In the course of the 2010s, DMI unveiled several youth oriented initiatives such as Dubai FM, which talks to the young Emirati through music and talk shows. These steps diversified DMI’s content portfolio while staying on the cutting edge of content while holding on to it. This stance by DMI in finding a balance between modernization and tradition has made it an influential shape in media consumption patterns across the UAE and the greater region.

Dubai Media Incorporated has succeeded in placing itself at the forefront of the regional media landscape by constantly reinventing its content to suit new emerging audience preferences. DMI will front the pursuit by Dubai to become a global innovation, cultural, and entertainment hub through several media channels. 

Strategic growth coupled with adaptability has made the organization an important name in supporting the city’s drive on their development narrative. In the future, DMI is going to be seen advancing with other new technologies and digital platforms for engaging audiences across different media. This adaptability, combined with its mission to tell Dubai’s story to the world, ensures that DMI will continue to shape the media landscape in the UAE and beyond. From its early days as a broadcaster to its current role as a media powerhouse, Dubai Media Incorporated has stayed the course with reflecting the ambitions and achievements of the emirate.

Part Saudi-Lebanese, part worldly, Alanoud Al Eid exudes distinction not only in the realms of design and style but also on television. For it is in fact due to the reason that Alanoud had stepped into the scene in 2011 with her widely acclaimed brand Lady Fozaza, which not only won hearts in the fashion world but also helped affirm her position as one of the most influential stylists in the Middle East.

The journey began with Alanoud in just a natural love affair with creativity and design. She started her journey in the fashion world, the initial idea was crystal clear – a label that would empower women and unchain them to be themselves. That was Lady Fozaza. Rich blazers, with their edgy and chic style, marked the brand’s quick rise to popularity as it captured the essence of statement fashion in its unique style. Alanoud’s designs reflect her bold approach to fashion: such fearless, expressive, and brutally feminine statement pieces. One piece, in particular, seemed to stand out from the blazers: there was something that caught the eye of these events and followed a following of women who were on the cutting edge of fashion.

Alanoud has not gone unnoticed by the fashion industry. She received many awards for her work, including three Grazia Style Awards for Best Local Designer. Additionally, she became Best Dressed by Harper’s Bazaar in 2010. These accolades only affirm her capacity to continuously innovate and push boundaries in the space of fashion. Alanoud is not just a designer; she’s a trendsetter whose influence spans across various facets of fashion and lifestyle.

Alanoud is one of the celebrity stylists in the Middle East and has dressed some of its biggest names. She brings her signature style onto red carpets and at exclusive events. Her sense of detail and aesthetic thinking that connects dots makes her one of the top stylists not only in Dubai but in the region. And she worked with varied high-profile clients–curating looks that underscore elegance and sophistication of the brand. She found success as a stylist, combined with her design work that made Alanoud the go-to authority on fashion for many people in the Middle East.

Apart from the work for her label, Alanoud has also collaborated with several of the world’s famous brands, including Michael Kors, Top Shop, GAP, and Swarovski. By coming through such partnerships, she brings Middle Eastern-inspired designs to an international market, thus filling the gap between regional fashion and global trends. The challenge Alanoud seeks in finding these collaborations stands as one evidence of her flexibility as a designer, hence how the Middle East’s creations can be shared on an international scale. She has been one of the more personal collaborations to date, blending Swarovski’s luxury and glamour with her bold design aesthetic.

As a personality on the small screen and as a fashion advisor, Alanoud continues to extend her influence across the breadth of the fashion industry. She continually appears on TV shows where she espouses her knowledge of styling trends and moves in the industry. Her ability to transition from hiding behind the camera on some designs to being in front of it tells much about her multi-talented skills and profound appreciation of the fashion world. She is also a consultant for leading fashion houses and emerging designers who call upon her vast experience to ensure they are able to find their way in the industry’s inner workings.

Alanoud’s success can also be attributed to her authenticity with her audience. She shares designs along with lifestyle, inspirations, and the journey as a young entrepreneur on social media, specifically Instagram. A large number of followers range from aspiring designers all the way to fashion enthusiasts who admire her fearlessness in the approach towards style. Now, Alanoud takes her inspiration and brand into the Middle East and beyond for the shaping of the future of fashion.

Her innovative ability to blend striking, bold ideas with the cultural influences placed her as one of the most key players in redefining Middle Eastern fashion. His work in stylists through the Lady Fozaza brand continues to shape the fashion landscape, proving that Dubai is not only a center for luxury but also fashion-forward. Although the likelihood is she will be around for a long time and still dominant in the major stages of this global fashion show, I have no doubt Alanoud Badr’s distribution of influence will only grow as time passes.

A Royal Vessel for Unforgettable Evenings Rustar Dhow in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is not just any dinner cruise. With beautiful designs and enormous size of 51 meters (167 feet) long, Rustar Dhow holds the Guinness World Record as the largest floating restaurant on earth. For a local or, rather, a tourist interested in seeing and tasting Dubai in one of the most unique ways possible, it remains an affair like no other-the Rustar Dhow experience on water.

Truly unique in itself, the dhow is built in the traditional wooden dhow style with just the right touch of royal allure and modern luxury to combine making one evening unforgettable. With a capacity to carry 400 passengers at one time, this dhow has divided itself into three tiers- each of which is observable in taste. So, if you are on the lookout for an intimate get-together then it has lavish buffet or an open-air experience with breath-taking views Rustar Dhow really has it all.

Step inside the majestic Rustar Dhow, and you will be warmly received in the best tradition of Islam, complete with refreshing towels hot or cold and a serving of Arabic coffee with dates. The experience would set the tone for the night by combining Emirati culture and luxurious services. Rustar Dhow covers three decks and is very versatile to its seating. The lower deck is an intimate bar that converts into a dancing floor on demand, preferably during private events or special nights out. The middle deck accommodates the large dining hall with extra apartment arrangements for dining, where guests are delighted to devour a delectable buffet with flavours from around the world. A wide spread of Continental, Arabic, and Asian cuisine to satisfy everyone’s cravings. From the very appetizing appetizers to the rich main courses and down to the tempting desserts, everything would make the meal as worthwhile as the views outside.

The upper deck has open-air seating. You shall be offered breath-taking views of the skyline of Dubai. Dining under the stars, cruising past the world-famous and iconic Burj Khalifa and along with glittering skyscrapers in Dubai Marina creates an atmosphere that is at once soothing and awe-inspiring. The Rustar Dhow provides more than an excellent experience in dining but makes one enjoy entertainment and culture profoundly. Live performances throughout the night by talented singers add to the ambiance. This comes out as the perfect musical background for dinner affairs. But that’s not all the thrill for you.

There’s marvellous Tanoura dance. This is Egyptian folk dance as the whirling dervish set, or in all whirling dervish splendour, full of colourful movements and clothes. On board, you’ll find whirling dervish with moves more than skilful in colourful displays. There’s local Emirati dance, Al Yawla, a demonstration of a certain elegance and precision, insight into local culture. 

There’s always something for everybody, be it live music, cultural performances, or just to enjoy the serene atmosphere while cruising along the waters of Dubai.

Rustar Dhow is an experience much more than a restaurant with rich cultural experience amidst some exceptional service, wonderful views, and incredible settings. Whether it is a romantic evening for two, celebrations of some special occasion with family and friends, or a corporate event, the exclusive venue offered by Rustar Dhow will surely leave one with an unforgettable experience. For tourists, Rustar Dhow provides an insight into the rich maritime heritage of the UAE with the added bonus of viewing the spectacular Dubai skyline from the water. The dhow could be also an excellent alternative dinner for the locals, its entertainment and feeding and views creating a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Advance booking of your experience on board the Rustar Dhow would be advisable for that preferred date and time due to popular demand. Be it casual food and fun-filled entertainment, or a large celebration, the Rustar Dhow accommodates all. Please do remember to choose your decks-the lower for cosy private gatherings, the middle for formal dining hall fare, and the upper for a night under the stars never to be forgotten.