Dubai: The Dubai Films and Games Commission (DFGC), operating under the Dubai Media Council, has successfully concluded its week-long Talent Development Programme. This initiative was delivered in collaboration with the UK's National Film and Television School (NFTS) and Prime Video, Amazon's global streaming service.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme marked an important step in advancing Dubai's creative media talent pipeline. It aimed to strengthen international collaboration across the film and television sector by developing stories capable of reaching international audiences. The programme brought together emerging writers and producers to transform original ideas into industry-ready scripted television projects. It included masterclasses, workshops, mentoring, and pitching sessions, providing creative development aligned with global market expectations.
Participants received hands-on training and expert guidance, refining their original projects while enhancing creative and commercial capabilities. The focus areas included story and character development, project packaging, marketing strategies, and international commissioning models. These activities allowed participants to develop professional pitches and engage more effectively with global industry stakeholders.
Ayesha bin Kalli, Head of Talent Development at the Dubai Films and Games Commission, stated that the programme reflected their commitment to building sustainable talent pathways. It equipped Dubai-based creatives with the skills and industry insight needed to compete globally. The initiative combined hands-on development, expert mentoring, and exposure to international standards, enabling participants to advance industry-ready projects.
Furthermore, participants gained insights from a panel discussion on the future of series production in the MENA region. The panel featured Marouane Burrour, Senior Content Acquisition Manager for MENA and Turkey at Prime Video; Jonathan Lewsley, Senior Sales Executive for Prime Video International Originals; and Nawaf Al Janahi, filmmaker and founder of Blackbox Cinema and Cineolio.
Through collaborations with global institutions and industry players, the Dubai Films and Games Commission continues to support a future-ready creative ecosystem, reinforcing Dubai's role as a global hub for film, television, and content creation.