23-07-2025
How live podcasts are redefining community and content in MENA
Live podcasts are now taking the event industry by a storm. They are extending from smartphone apps to stages around the world and becoming a driving force in live entertainment and community-building. What started as fairly niche audio storytelling and conversations has evolved into a new kind of live event experience that is rooted in familiarity, intimacy, and a shared interest. At Platinumlist, we've seen this transformation unfold and we can say for certain – it's only gaining momentum.
From listening to experiencing
The emergence of live podcasts changed how people interact with the content they love. Fans are no longer entirely happy with being passive listeners. They seek presence, interaction, and the excitement of seeing their favourite hosts in real time. This desire for connection is fuelling a new genre of live entertainment – refreshingly different from stand-ups, concerts, or seminars.
Popular UK shows like Parenting Hell Live and NearlyParents Live have found eager audiences not just in London or Manchester, but across the Middle East. In July 2023, comedians Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe brought their signature chaos to Dubai Opera, transforming parental meltdowns into sold-out comedy gold. In October 2025, Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo returned to the same venue with NearlyParents Live, chronicling their journey into parenthood with an audience full of expats who saw themselves in every anecdote.
Live podcasts are more than just traditional stage recordings. They are manifestations of a shared digital closeness that has been transformed into actual group interactions. These programmes, which only require a few microphones, unvarnished honesty, and well-timed humour, encourage a level of involvement that is rarely possible with traditional formats.
Why fans show up
Three key factors that appeal to younger audiences have contributed to the surge in live podcast events: familiarity, community, and emotional depth.
Unlike a new play, concert or seminar, podcast audiences already have a relationship with the performers. They've spent hours or even years with their voices, heard their stories and have a certain attachment to their persona. It's like meeting old friends; except this time, they're holding a mic on stage. This sense of familiarity helps the viewers connect with their favourite performers and shorten the distance between the artist and the community.
Second, these events create an instant community. People who attend live podcast shows often share specific interests or life experiences. Whether it's new parenthood, personal development, or chaotic comedy, the crowd is already pre-selected to vibe together. That shared reference point amplifies laughter, vulnerability, and connection.
Lastly, there's a unique depth-with-lightness to these shows. Unlike tightly scripted theatre or high-energy stand-up, live podcasts have a flexible, conversational tone. Shows like The Diary of a CEO – An Evening with Steven Bartlett blend real-time audience Q&A with free-form reflection. This brings content that's just intellectually and emotionally stimulating but not overly polished and rehearsed.
More than entertainment: A platform for brand and creator growth
Creators and brands also benefit from the move to live events. Podcasts are increasingly becoming a part of personal and commercial brand-building strategies. Going live adds a powerful layer: it humanises the voice, strengthens fan loyalty, and creates new monetisation opportunities through tickets, merch, and sponsorships.
What's perhaps most striking is how well these events have translated to the Middle East. In a region known for rapid digital adoption and growing demand for culturally relevant content, live podcasts are the perfect platform for local and international audiences and creators.
At Platinumlist, we've seen significant interest in these events. Popular UK shows like Parenting Hell Live and NearlyParents Podcast have successfully toured the UAE, demonstrating significant regional appeal. For another live show, My Therapist Ghosted Me's, at Dubai Opera in 2023, tickets were completely sold out. All in all, live podcasts are gaining popularity among the UAE-based fans of international podcast stars.
What's next for the region
Looking ahead, we see the Middle East as more than just a rising market for international podcasts, but a source of its own live content. There will be no shortage of Arabic, English and bilingual shows from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE, building tight-knit communities.
There are several key emerging trends in the region. First, we anticipate more local creators launching regional tours. Second, we also expect a rise of podcast mini-festivals and themed series, as well as hybrid event formats that mix live storytelling with Q&A, improvisation, and audience engagement. Finally, we are likely to see more brands partnering with podcast hosts for targeted, trust-based engagement.
Podcast live events offer a fresh alternative in a day when content is abundant but real connection is few. And we think this is just the beginning as that community keeps expanding, both online and offline.
By Cosmin Ivan, CEO at Platinumlist
