Latest news with #AbdullahAhmedAlSaleh
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Ministry of Economy awards second collective music management licence to Music Nation
The UAE Ministry of Economy granted its second collective music management licence to 'Music Nation' during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Dubai. The licence authorises the organisation to manage the distribution of rights on behalf of music creators and performers, while also ensuring nationwide compliance among music platforms. The announcement was made during an event attended by Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property. The Ministry confirmed that the licence was issued in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 concerning copyright and related rights. It marks the continuation of the Ministry's efforts to strengthen intellectual property frameworks in the UAE, following the first collective management licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025. Al Saleh said, 'Under the vision of our wise leadership, the UAE has placed strategic emphasis on enhancing the competitiveness of its cultural and creative industries, driving their growth both regionally and globally. Recognising their vital role in national economic growth, we are committed to fostering public-private collaboration to cultivate an enabling environment for talent and innovation. By elevating the creative economy's legislative framework to world-class standards, we aim to expand the private sector's participation in it, in line with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031.' The Under-Secretary said in his speech, 'The Ministry remains committed to establishing a world-class copyright governance system, drawing on international best practices. We are achieving this through strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks, fostering investment in creative sectors, and implementing robust collective management systems. These measures safeguard intellectual property rights while building creators' trust in the nation's creative ecosystem.' 'The collective music management licence serves as a catalyst for cultural innovation while safeguarding artists' intellectual property rights. Through establishing transparent revenue distribution systems and fair compensation mechanisms, it elevates the UAE's music industry - enhancing its global competitiveness and positioning our nation as a premier hub for creative enterprises,' he added. Al Saleh emphasised that awarding the licence to 'Music Nation' marks a strategic milestone in the UAE's commitment to fostering creativity. The initiative unlocks new opportunities for artists, writers, and producers while strengthening rights protection and leveraging creative-economy tools - ultimately positioning the sector as a key driver of national economic growth. Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini said, 'Our music industry is witnessing remarkable growth, fuelled by an expanding ecosystem of creative enterprises and world-class events. Dubai alone boasts 350 live music venues, while the national streaming market generated US$841.9 million in 2024 - projected to nearly triple to $2.3 billion by 2030. To sustain this momentum, the Ministry of Economy is prioritising robust legislative frameworks that will further catalyse the creative economy and foster artistic innovation.' He added, 'Building on last month's inaugural licence granted to the Emirates Music Rights Association, today marks another significant milestone with the official authorisation of Music Nation. We are actively collaborating with local and global partners, including industry associations and legal experts, to share best practices that drive sector growth. In tandem, we're expanding awareness initiatives to ensure artists, composers, and producers fully leverage these licences to protect both their creative works and financial interests.' 'Today marks a pivotal moment for the UAE and Music Nation,' said Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for Music Nation. 'After years of careful planning, Music Nation is positioned to become a cornerstone of music licensing, empowering the Emirates' vibrant creative industry. As an Emarati, I am honoured to establish a world-class music rights infrastructure that not only elevates local artists to greater heights, but also showcases our rich musical heritage and cultural traditions to the world. In partnership with industry leaders BMI and SoundExchange, our cutting-edge technology and services will protect music rights holders and propel the UAE's music economy to new frontiers.'
Business Wire
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Music Nation Approved by United Arab Emirates to Launch World-class Collective Management Organization, Providing Vital New Royalties for Music Rights Holders
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Music Nation Copyrights Management (Music Nation), a pioneer in music rights management in the United Arab Emirates, today announced the company received formal approval to license, collect and distribute royalties from public performance and neighboring rights, delivering a vital new source of revenue for music rights holders. With best-in-class tools, technology and leading industry partnerships with Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI), the largest performing rights organization in the world, and SoundExchange Inc., the recording industry's top digital global collective management organization, Music Nation will be the industry's first rights management organization capable of natively collecting performance, mechanical and neighboring rights. Music Nation is part of a broad UAE initiative to support the creation of a thriving music ecosystem and to elevate the region's music industry by protecting the rights of music creators and compensating them for the commercial use of their work. This vital new source of royalty revenue in the UAE will help recording artists, songwriters, composers and others create sustainable careers and ensure music creators, labels, publishers and other music copyright owners, both local and international, are compensated for the use of their work. 'Today marks a pivotal moment for the UAE and Music Nation,' said Chairwoman Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak. 'After years of careful planning, Music Nation is positioned to become a cornerstone of music licensing, empowering the Emirates' vibrant creative industry. As an Emarati, I am honored to establish a world-class music rights infrastructure that not only elevates local artists to greater heights, but also showcases our rich musical heritage and cultural traditions to the world. In partnership with industry leaders BMI and SoundExchange, our cutting-edge technology and services will protect music rights holders and propel the UAE's music economy to new frontiers.' His Excellency Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, said, 'The Ministry continues its efforts to develop an advanced system for the governance of copyright and related rights, based on global best practices. This is achieved by developing regulatory and legislative frameworks, stimulating investment in creativity, and supporting effective collective management systems that ensure the protection of rights and enhance the confidence of creators and musicians in the country's creative climate. The collective management license for music plays an important role in promoting a creative culture in society, providing comprehensive protection for the intellectual property rights of musicians and artists, and providing mechanisms to ensure financial justice for artists and creators in the distribution of revenues and transparency in the collection and distribution of copyrights. This supports raising the competitiveness of the music industry in the country and making it an attractive destination for creative and cultural works worldwide.' Mike O'Neill, President and Chief Executive Officer of BMI, said, 'We are thrilled to partner with Rasha, the Music Nation team and SoundExchange to ensure that music creators in the UAE have the opportunity to turn their passion into their careers by being paid for their creative work. BMI has always been an unwavering advocate for the songwriters, composers and rights holders behind the songs the world loves, and we're excited to provide our music licensing infrastructure, expertise and deep experience fostering career development to benefit the region's incredible creators. There are endless possibilities ahead that Music Nation will deliver, and we look forward to a bright future together.' Michael Huppe, President and CEO of SoundExchange, said, 'This is a major milestone and a vote of confidence from the UAE Ministry of Economy in the combined abilities of Music Nation, SoundExchange, and BMI. We're excited to get to work establishing the region's premier collective management organization and serving creators with the same level of excellence we have for more than two decades in the U.S.' Music Nation will begin collecting royalties in the UAE for more than 2 million songwriters, composers, publishers, artists, sound recording owners and other music creators. The UAE and the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remain the fastest-growing music market in the world, with the IFPI reporting the territory expanded in 2024 for a tenth consecutive year. Music revenue in MENA last year climbed by 22.8%, outpacing the global average of 5.9% growth. NOTE TO EDITORS: Photos from a ceremony the Ministry of Economy held on May 27, 2025 for Music Nation can be accessed HERE. Photos are Courtesy of the UAE's Ministry of Economy. About Music Nation Music Nation, a pioneer in music rights management in the UAE, licenses the rights of authors, publishers, sound recording owners and performers throughout the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These rights are referred to as neighboring rights (for sound recordings), public performance rights (for musical compositions) and mechanical reproduction rights (also for musical compositions). With world-class partnerships and technology, Music Nation is helping implement the UAE's vision for the protection and enforcement of musical copyrights by developing a world-class music licensing and royalty distribution infrastructure. Music Nation, with its partners BMI and SoundExchange, will help ensure that music creators and rights holders are fully and fairly compensated for the use of their work. For more information, visit
Hi Dubai
4 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Ministry of Economy Grants Second Music Rights Licence to Music Nation
The UAE Ministry of Economy has officially granted its second collective music management licence to Music Nation, reinforcing the country's commitment to protecting intellectual property and advancing its creative industries. The announcement was made during a ceremony at the Ministry's headquarters in Dubai, attended by senior officials including Under-Secretary Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh and Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini. This licence authorises Music Nation to oversee the management and distribution of rights for music creators and performers across the country. It follows the first such licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025, under the UAE's Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 on copyright and related rights. Al Saleh described the move as a strategic milestone that aligns with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031, aimed at fostering a globally competitive creative economy. He emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in supporting talent, innovation, and sustainable growth within the sector. Dr. Al Muaini highlighted the music industry's rapid expansion, citing Dubai's 350 live music venues and a national streaming market projected to grow from US$841.9 million in 2024 to US$2.3 billion by 2030. He stressed the Ministry's commitment to establishing strong legal frameworks and promoting best practices to ensure fair compensation for creators. Music Nation Chairwoman Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak said the organisation is poised to become a leading force in music licensing, protecting rights holders and showcasing the UAE's cultural richness. Strategic partnerships with global entities like BMI and SoundExchange are expected to enhance transparency and revenue distribution. The initiative is a significant step forward in positioning the UAE as a regional hub for music and creative enterprise. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Arabian Business
5 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
UAE grants music management licence as streaming market tipped to hit $2.3bn
The UAE Ministry of Economy granted its second collective music management licence to Music Nation during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Dubai. The licence authorises the organisation to manage the distribution of rights on behalf of music creators and performers, while also ensuring nationwide compliance among music platforms. It comes as the streaming market is tipped to hit $2.3bn by 2030 and musical artists and producers in the region look to monetise works. UAE music management The announcement was made during an event attended by Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property. The Ministry confirmed that the licence was issued in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 concerning copyright and related rights. It marks the continuation of the Ministry's efforts to strengthen intellectual property frameworks in the UAE, following the first collective management licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025. Al Saleh said: 'Under the vision of our wise leadership, the UAE has placed strategic emphasis on enhancing the competitiveness of its cultural and creative industries, driving their growth both regionally and globally. 'Recognising their vital role in national economic growth, we are committed to fostering public-private collaboration to cultivate an enabling environment for talent and innovation. 'By elevating the creative economy's legislative framework to world-class standards, we aim to expand the private sector's participation in it, in line with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031.' The Under-Secretary said: 'The Ministry remains committed to establishing a world-class copyright governance system, drawing on international best practices. We are achieving this through strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks, fostering investment in creative sectors, and implementing robust collective management systems. 'These measures safeguard intellectual property rights while building creators' trust in the nation's creative ecosystem.' 'The collective music management licence serves as a catalyst for cultural innovation while safeguarding artists' intellectual property rights. Through establishing transparent revenue distribution systems and fair compensation mechanisms, it elevates the UAE's music industry – enhancing its global competitiveness and positioning our nation as a premier hub for creative enterprises'. Al Saleh emphasised that awarding the licence to Music Nation marks a strategic milestone in the UAE's commitment to fostering creativity. The initiative unlocks new opportunities for artists, writers, and producers while strengthening rights protection and leveraging creative-economy tools – ultimately positioning the sector as a key driver of national economic growth. Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini said: 'Our music industry is witnessing remarkable growth, fuelled by an expanding ecosystem of creative enterprises and world-class events. Dubai alone boasts 350 live music venues, while the national streaming market generated $841.9m in 2024 – projected to nearly triple to $2.3bn by 2030. 'To sustain this momentum, the Ministry of Economy is prioritising robust legislative frameworks that will further catalyse the creative economy and foster artistic innovation. 'Building on last month's inaugural licence granted to the Emirates Music Rights Association, today marks another significant milestone with the official authorisation of Music Nation. 'We are actively collaborating with local and global partners, including industry associations and legal experts, to share best practices that drive sector growth. 'In tandem, we're expanding awareness initiatives to ensure artists, composers, and producers fully leverage these licences to protect both their creative works and financial interests.' Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for Music Nation, said: 'Today marks a pivotal moment for the UAE and Music Nation. After years of careful planning, Music Nation is positioned to become a cornerstone of music licensing, empowering the Emirates' vibrant creative industry. ''As an Emarati, I am honoured to establish a world-class music rights infrastructure that not only elevates local artists to greater heights, but also showcases our rich musical heritage and cultural traditions to the world. 'In partnership with industry leaders BMI and SoundExchange, our cutting-edge technology and services will protect music rights holders and propel the UAE's music economy to new frontiers'.
Mid East Info
5 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Nestlé Honors Youth Innovation with First-Ever Sustainability Heroes Award - Middle East Business News and Information
Nestlé's flagship youth initiative celebrates student-led sustainability solutions from over 200 participants — and announces the program's return for a second edition launching in November 2025. Under the auspices of the UAE Ministry of Economy and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Nestlé and INJAZ UAE announced the winner of the inaugural Sustainability Heroes Award. This youth-centered initiative has equipped more than 200 university students across the UAE with the skills and mentorship to develop innovative sustainability solutions. Kleva, composed of students from University of Sharjah, took top honors for their project,— a dynamic project-based learning platform providing students and young professionals with real-world experience before formal employment. Their proposal stood out for its originality, viability, and potential to create measurable social impact. The winning team will now begin internships with Nestlé, gaining hands-on experience and access to further mentoring opportunities to help refine and scale their solution. Over six months, students engaged in a 'Learning by Doing' format emphasizing entrepreneurship, business acumen, and real-world impact. At the heart of the program is the INJAZ UAE Company Program, which transforms classrooms into start-ups. Students worked in teams to develop business solutions addressing real sustainability challenges while learning from each other and industry professionals. Emphasizing sustainability-driven entrepreneurship, the program empowered participants to build innovative, purpose-led ventures that respond to pressing environmental and social issues. Throughout the journey, students received dedicated training and hands-on mentorship from Nestlé professionals, gaining exposure to real-world business contexts and sustainability practices. As a result: Nestlé employees mentored the students; 10 internships and 15 mentorship opportunities will be extended to top students, with the winning team securing automatic placements to the internships; Finalists are acquiring critical business skills to serve them in future roles, whether as employees or entrepreneurs. The Sustainability Heroes Award celebrates not only the winning solution but also the broader movement to foster sustainable thinking and practical action among the UAE's emerging talent. A platform with long-term purpose: 'As we look ahead to the next phase of the UAE's economic transformation, programs like Sustainability Heroes will continue to play a vital role in equipping our youth to lead with purpose and contribute to the knowledge economy,' said His Excellency Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Economy. Ms. Hajar Bakhit Alketbi, Director of the Government Communication Department at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, added: 'Youth are central to climate action and sustainable development. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is committed to developing the young people of our country as the leaders of tomorrow, a premise that underpins the Sustainability Heroes Award. We believe their role is critical to climate action, and we are committed to strategically integrating young people into every aspect of our efforts to combat climate change. Their energy, enthusiasm, and skillset are invaluable assets that can drive real transformation and help us achieve our sustainability goals. I commend Nestlé's efforts in inspiring student-led sustainability projects, demonstrating how the private sector can contribute to our climate initiatives. I also commend all the participants for their remarkable projects and eagerly anticipate the next edition in November.' Ms. Sarah Shaw, CEO of at Majra, said: 'At Majra, we believe in unlocking the potential of youth to lead national progress. Sustainability Heroes is a prime example of how partnerships can equip young people with the skills, mindset, and confidence to turn their ideas into action — not only for their own futures, but for the future of our planet.' Hassan Atia, General Business Manager of Nestlé UAE, commented: 'This award is not just a recognition of student excellence — it's a celebration of bold ideas and a powerful commitment to change. At Nestlé, we're proud to walk alongside young changemakers building a better future for people and the planet. This initiative is a reflection of our global commitment through the Nestlé Needs Youth program, which empowers young talent with the skills, opportunities, and platforms they need to thrive. And this is just the beginning — we look forward to expanding the program's reach and impact in the next edition.' The Sustainability Heroes initiative is designed as a long-term platform to equip youth with the tools and mindset to contribute meaningfully to the UAE's national priorities — from sustainability and climate resilience to entrepreneurship and food security. By embedding sustainability into entrepreneurship education, the program supports the development of job-ready, purpose-driven talent capable of building solutions for a better tomorrow. Following the success of its first edition, Nestlé and its partners will launch the second edition of the program in November 2025, with an expanded mandate to reach more students across the UAE and deepen its impact nationwide. About Nestlé in the UAE: Nestlé's regional office for the Middle East and North Africa is based in Dubai South, and the company operates across the Emirates with offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Nestlé works with more than 850 customers in the UAE and more than 1,700 retail outlets in the country, including supermarkets and pharmacies. The company locally produces confectionary, dairy, culinary, and coffee, at two food and beverages factories in Dubai and operates two water manufacturing sites, one in Dubai and one in Abu Dhabi. Nestlé employs more than 1,300 people from different parts of the world, while providing indirect employment to hundreds more.
