Director Monketh Aldabbagh Announces Expansion from the UAE to the U.S., Bridging Cultures Through Filmmaking

Associated Press

06-03-2025

Monketh Aldabbagh, presently on the way to America, reinforces with his unique perspective on visual storytelling the developing global impact of Emirati media. Beginning with his work on television and cultural programming in the UAE, Aldabbagh has made successful inroads into the American media scene, producing content that seeks to establish a bridge between the East and the West.
Aldabbagh emerged as a storyteller who respects cultural traditions while playing with modern storytelling aesthetics, directing such iconic Emirati programs as Zayed's Legacy and Hadeeth Al Thekrayat. His works have crossed borders, allowing him to practice filmmaking in an alien landscape while remaining true to the heart of his artistic vision.
'We are the storytellers, and as filmmakers, we assume the responsibility of telling compelling stories that resonate deeply in the audiences' hearts,' Aldabbagh said. 'Whether here in the Middle East or the U.S., a story connects, informs cultural comprehension, and opens doors to dialogue.'
The past couple of years have marked a change in the artist's life since moving to the States. The media company Idea Film, which he operates between the U.S. and the Emirates, undertook many star-filled projects, from managing media content for the Rahma Worldwide charitable organization active in over sixteen countries. His know-how of the field has paved the way for inland relationships with considerable American outfits, promoting the interaction of media culture.
For Aldabbagh, advertising is everything, be it Pizza Hut, Nissan, or Toyota in international television, cinema, and commercial production; along with government agencies and influencers, he aims to help create world-class digital content with the media strategy within the UAE.
'It's about the collection of a moment and preservation of identity, telling unseen stories, and making bridges to understanding all over the world,' Aldabbagh added. 'Each project I take on creates space for me to display the richness of my culture in welcoming new ways of expression.'
His astute management of the constraints presented by Eastern and Western media has placed him square in the center of the industry itself. The East uses the media as a sort of protection layer for the preservation of traditional values, while the West uses it in its continuous attempts to break tradition and innovate film. Aldabbagh merges both mediums such that their content is considered significant, entertaining, and culturally relevant.
Together with Aldabbagh, the Idea Film team is working on a new television serial for an Emirati channel, creditably high-profile Ramadan projects, several commercials, and a song titled Be Mercy to be released soon during the holy month.
Aldabbagh trusts that the present-day media would serve as a substantial continuation of civilizational exchange. With his advanced knowledge and experience of Arab and international media, he aims to continue furthering his filmmaking efforts as bridges for audiences to cross beyond language and geographical boundaries.
'Aldabbagh stresses that in this day and age, media is so highly ubiquitous that one must be very intentional about the stories told. Filmmaking can change attitudes, educate, and bond people together. I want that power to effect meaningful change,' he said.
Idea Film, visit www.ideafilm.ae.
City: Dubai