International Music Summit returns to Dubai

International Music Summit (IMS), has announced the return of Beatport Presents IMS Dubai, taking place on 13–14 November 2025 at the 25hours Hotel One Central.

Building on its mission to accelerate conversations and connections within the rapidly evolving MENA region, Beatport Presents IMS Dubai 2025 offers two days of expert-led panels, keynotes, and networking opportunities, plus full access to curated evening programming, all included with every badge. This year’s summit continues to champion the four core pillars of: Music, Culture. Finance. Technology. Through this lens, IMS brings together pioneering voices to explore not only the future of electronic music, but its broader impact on creative and commercial industries as well.

Highlights from last year’s edition included Maha ElNabawi, Managing Editor of Billboard Arabia, who delivered an opening keynote addressing the rise of Arabic music on the global stage; Janet Ashak, Head of Music (MENA) at YouTube, who discussed the platform’s role in fostering regional artist development; Maria May, Head of Electronic at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), who spoke on the future of artist representation in a shifting industry, James Craven, president at Live Nation Middle East, who shared insights on navigating the music industry in the MENA region; and Wassim Bou Malham, artist and entrepreneur, who highlighted the importance of nurturing local creative ecosystems in MENA

The summit’s music program was equally alluring, with the official closing party featuring international heavyweights Deep Dish, Pete Tong, and Echonomist. The weekend showcase was further complimented by regional standouts including Cosmicat, Yas Meen Selectress, STRYV, and Saliah, culminating in a who’s who of international and homegrown talent.

2025 sees IMS Dubai continue building on 16 years of International Music Summit’s legacy in Ibiza, drawing on that same energy and spirit of collaboration to spotlight new voices, address regional challenges, and forge connections between local and global communities. Discussing Beatport Presents IMS Dubai. Co-Founder of IMS Pete Tong remarks;

“It’s exciting to see how IMS Dubai has already become a vital touchpoint for the region. The energy, curiosity, and ideas we saw last year made it clear that this is a place that can provide lots of knowledge and value. What’s even more inspiring is the way music, culture, finance, and technology come together at this event. We’re really building momentum and giving a platform to local and international talent who are moving the needle and pushing boundaries. Dubai is fast becoming a hub for forward-thinking creators, and IMS is right at the heart of it.”

This year’s venue is 25hours Hotel One Central, a storytelling-driven property facing the Museum of the Future. A haven for creators and visionaries, the hotel’s lavish and immersive atmosphere makes it the ideal setting for an event designed to challenge norms and inspire progress. Following a sold-out debut edition, the move to 25hours Hotel One Central doesn’t only give IMS Dubai more capacity than last year’s event, but positions the summit at one of the city’s most vibrant hubs for music and culture.

With the global music industry increasingly turning its focus toward the MENA region, IMS Dubai proudly represents key territories such as Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Bahrain, Jordan & more through select delegates, speakers, and vital discussions aimed at shaping the future of music and culture across the region. IMS aims to serve as a vital meeting point to foster growth, collaboration, and sustainable development across these emerging cultural and creative markets.

Find limited early bird badges here and stay tuned for upcoming announcements about this year’s speaker roster, artist showcases, and evening program. Nominate a speaker for IMS Dubai here.

Badges on sale now.

by Damion Pell

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