CMA, NG9 Holding sign Dh55m partnership to enhance local film and TV production in Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Abu Dhabi Creative Media Authority (CMA) has signed an agreement with NG9 Group, a dynamic consortium comprising Nirvana Holding, Gewan Holding, and 9Yards Group, for a multi-sector strategic collaboration. The partnership will initially deliver two feature films and a 10-episode TV series, with a total value of Dh55 million ($15 million), set for global distribution.Principal photography is slated to begin in September, employing local crews and integrating Emirati talent both on-screen and behind the scenes, aligning with the Abu Dhabi Film Commission's enhanced rebate program designed to showcase Emirati culture and heritage.As part of the collaboration, CMA will provide valuable services such as location support, talent development initiatives, talent casting and the ADFC cashback rebate. NG9 Group will extend preferential rates on hotels, car rentals, flights, and tourism-related services to projects supported by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, including special vehicle rentals, such as yachts, and private jets.Khalid Khouri, Director of Industry Development at the Creative Media Authority, said: 'As we work to position Abu Dhabi as one of the world's leading creative hubs, expanding our local industry offering remains a core focus. This exciting new partnership with an extensive NG9 team opens up fresh opportunities for investment and collaboration, driving growth across the local economy.'Alaa Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of NG9 Holding, said: 'Aligned with our commitment to advancing the UAE's economy through innovation, local partnerships, sustainability, and community engagement, we are proud to collaborate with CMA. This partnership will not only deliver internationally distributed creative content but will also create career opportunities for talented young filmmakers from Abu Dhabi.'Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of the Abu Dhabi Film Commission said: "This collaboration adds value and aligns with our vision to attract additional production partners who can leverage and utilise our rebate programme – including those partners who can reflect our wide variety of filming locations on screen, employ our talented production specialists and businesses and showcase the rich cultural and social heritage of Abu Dhabi in engaging television and film content."
Rami Tmaish, General Manager of 9Yards Pictures, expressed his optimism about the partnership, highlighting its role in showcasing Emirati creativity on a global stage. He confirmed that efforts are already underway to identify Emirati talent in acting, directing, and writing to empower them locally and internationally. He also noted that this initiative will build a strong production ecosystem to enhance the presence of Emirati content with a modern and globally resonant spirit.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Out Abu Dhabi
10 hours ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
The UAE Eid Al Etihad celebrations have been announced and it's going to be spectacular sep% Time Out Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is about to get lit – literally. The 54th edition of the UAE's National Day (now proudly called Eid Al Etihad, meaning 'Festival of the Union') is just around the corner, and if previous years are anything to go by, we're in for a dazzling display of heritage, technology and a whole lot of wow-factor. Every December 2, the UAE marks its historic unification – when the seven emirates came together to form a bold new nation back in 1971. But this isn't just a public holiday; it's a full-on cultural extravaganza that celebrates Emirati pride, futuristic ambition and the people who call this country home. Officially, there are two public holidays to mark UAE National Day every year, with December 2 and 3 set aside to celebrate the occasion. However, this year, the holiday could begin on December 1, which would give us a four-day weekend. And there is even a slight possibility of a five-day weekend according to UAE public holiday law. What's happening this year? While the full line-up is still under wraps, you can expect the usual suspects: massive fireworks, jaw-dropping drone shows and immersive storytelling that brings the UAE's past, present and future to life. This year's location for the Eid Al Etihad celebration will be revealed at a later date, but we do know that it will be held on Tuesday December 2. Last year, this main celebration was held at Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain and highlighted the UAE's values, rich heritage and future ambitions. We can expect a similar celebration to take place at another significant site in the UAE. If previous celebrations are any clue, the capital is likely to be the centre stage again. In 2022, synchronised drones danced above water. In 2023, AI-generated visuals transported audiences across time. In 2024, camels, constellations and desert mountains set the scene in Al Ain. In 2025? Think bigger. Think brighter. Think next-level tech mixed with timeless tradition – and maybe even a surprise A-list concert thrown into the mix. Here's what's likely on the cards: Fireworks everywhere – From Yas Island to the Corniche, the skies over Abu Dhabi are expected to light up in green, red, white and black. Drone storytelling shows – They've become a staple of the celebration, and you can bet they'll be even more advanced this year. Free public festivities – Think cultural performances, traditional parades, dance shows and more. (Pro tip: head to Al Maryah Island or downtown Abu Dhabi for the action.) Concerts and surprise pop-ups – Previous years saw a mix of local and international talent. Could 2025 bring another chart-topper to the capital? We're watching closely. Shopping and dining deals – Expect major discounts across malls, hotels and restaurants, especially in tourist hotspots like Yas Bay, Saadiyat and The Galleria. Traffic fine discounts? – In 2024, drivers in four emirates got 50 percent off. Will it return in 2025? Fingers crossed. Free public parking – Keep an eye on Parkonic announcements in Abu Dhabi closer to the date. Planning your break The holiday falls on Tuesday, December 2 and Wednesday, December 3 – so if you play your annual leave cards right (hello, December 1, 4 and 5), you could score a nine-day break. Perfect for a staycation, desert escape, or road trip with friends and family. Eid Al Etihad isn't just a few days of fireworks – it's a month-long moment of reflection and celebration. Expect the skyline to be bathed in national colours, Emirati music to fill every corner of the city and people from all walks of life to come together in joy. One thing's for sure: the UAE knows how to throw a celebration – and at 54 years strong, the energy is only growing. Keep your cameras ready and your National Day flags high – this is going to be one for the books. Coming up in Abu Dhabi… The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss Psst: This is when summer officially ends in Abu Dhabi No complaints here 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits
TECHx
13 hours ago
- TECHx
Digital Dubai Unveils AI-Powered Virtual Emirati Family
Home » Latest news » Digital Dubai Unveils AI-Powered Virtual Emirati Family Digital Dubai has announced the launch of the first-ever AI-powered virtual 'Emirati Family'. This initiative aims to improve the digital quality of life and strengthen Dubai's status as a global hub for digital transformation. The virtual family serves as a new communication tool to deliver government messages in a relatable and accessible way. Designed to reflect Emirati values, the characters are part of a broader effort to humanize digital services. The first character, known as 'The Girl', made her debut in a short video shared across social media platforms. She wears traditional Emirati attire with a modern touch and is designed to appeal to children and families. Digital Dubai revealed that the character encourages dialogue around AI, technology, and digital services. To increase community participation, the public was invited to choose a name for the character. The three options provided were 'Dubai', 'Mira', and 'Latifa'. Future characters will include a father, mother, and brother. The full family will represent a complete digital Emirati household. These AI-powered avatars will help deliver engaging and educational messages about Dubai's digital services. The content will be tailored for people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds, making it inclusive and user-friendly. Digital Dubai reported that the initiative aligns with its goal to build a smarter, more sustainable city. It also supports the development of interactive, AI-driven communication tools that reflect local culture and values. By using virtual characters, Digital Dubai aims to connect with new generations in their preferred digital language. The project highlights how artificial intelligence can support community engagement and digital awareness in innovative ways. Ultimately, the initiative reflects Dubai's broader vision of using digital innovation to enhance quality of life, promote well-being, and strengthen its leadership in the digital domain.
Gulf Today
14 hours ago
- Gulf Today
First AI-powered ‘Emirati Family' launched
In a pioneering step to enhance the digital quality of life and reinforce Dubai's position as a global hub for digital transformation, Digital Dubai has launched the first-ever virtual 'Emirati Family' created using artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative serves as an innovative platform for delivering government messages in a relatable, engaging, and accessible manner to all segments of society. Designed as an interactive digital interface, the AI-powered family represents Emirati society and reflects its values and aspirations. It also supports Dubai's vision of a smarter, more sustainable future. Digital Dubai introduced the project with the unveiling of the first member of the virtual family, 'The Girl,' who made her debut in a short video shared across social media platforms. Dressed in traditional Emirati attire with a modern twist, the character is designed to be warm and approachable, especially for children and families, encouraging dialogue around technology, AI, and digital services. As part of efforts to encourage community participation, the character invited the public to help select her name from three options: 'Dubai,' 'Mira,' or 'Latifa.' The project will soon introduce additional members of the virtual family, including the father, mother, and brother, forming a complete digital representation of an Emirati household. Powered by AI and advanced data technologies, the family will deliver engaging and educational messages about Dubai's digital services in a light and relatable manner for all segments of society. The initiative seeks to raise awareness of Dubai's advanced digital services by promoting the concept of digital life through an interactive, human-centred approach. It is designed to engage people of all ages, cultures, nationalities, and languages, through virtual characters inspired by Emirati identity and cultural values. Aligned with Digital Dubai's vision, the initiative supports the development of modern, AI-powered communication tools that reflect Emirati values while engaging new generations in their preferred digital language and style. Digital Dubai envisions these virtual characters as a relatable voice and an engaging bridge to raise awareness of digital services in an amusing, interactive, and meaningful way. The initiative supports Digital Dubai's broader goals of building a future where digital innovation enhances quality of life, promotes human well-being, and reinforces Dubai's position as a global leader in all aspects of digital living - including innovative methods of community engagement. WAM
