Sony Music Publishing amplifies its MENA presence with Dubai hub, appoints Dounia Chaaban as managing director

Sony Music Publishing has unfurled its plans to deepen its roots in the MENA region by launching a new Dubai office, in a strategic move underscoring Dubai's burgeoning status as a nexus for music industry expansion. At the helm as managing director, Dounia Chaaban is set to navigate the operations.

The timing of SMP's MENA incursion coincides with the region’s music sector experiencing a dynamic growth phase, as illuminated by the IFPI’s latest Global Music Report. The MENA music market, with a staggering 23.8% YoY growth in 2022, not only ranks third globally but also boasts the highest global streaming share at 95.5%. Moreover, 2021 heralded MENA as the fastest growing music locale, with a 35% YoY surge, according to IFPI.

This step aligns with Sony's ambitious blueprint to escalate its global influence, simultaneously carving out expansive horizons for its eclectic assembly of songwriters and composers.

Chaaban, stepping into the spotlight from the Dubai flagship office, will orchestrate the operational cadence, steering Sony Music Publishing’s creative compass and nurturing regional talents. Reporting to Dan Nelson, Sony Music Publishing’s Senior Vice President of International, her leadership marks a pivotal chapter in the company’s narrative.

The expansion into MENA follows a trail of Sony’s initiatives aimed at capturing the Arabic music market, including exclusive tie-ups and ventures with regional powerhouses like Egypt’s Craft Media and Anghami.

Sony’s move is part of a broader industry trend seeing major music entities like Warner Music Group, Universal Music Group and others, investing in MENA’s rich musical mosaic, underlining the region’s pivotal role in shaping the future of the global music business.

[Via MBW]