Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has signed a landmark partnership with Spotify to support Emirati and UAE-based musicians and connect Dubai artists with global audiences. The Memorandum of Understanding was announced in Dubai and marks a first-of-its-kind collaboration between a government cultural authority and a global music streaming platform.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture, and forms part of Dubai’s wider strategy to strengthen its cultural and creative economy.
A new model for public and private collaboration
The MoU establishes a framework for long-term collaboration between Dubai Culture and Spotify, focused on developing opportunities for emerging artists and strengthening links between Dubai’s music sector and the international industry.
Both organisations will work together on initiatives that share insights, audience data, and industry best practices, setting a new benchmark for public and private partnerships in the region’s music economy.
Practical support for Emirati and UAE-based artists
A core focus of the partnership is supporting artists at different stages of their careers. Planned programmes will aim to help musicians build sustainable careers, improve competitiveness, and better understand their audiences through data and analytics.
Dubai Culture and Spotify will also collaborate on training, mentorship, and creative initiatives designed to support long-term professional growth.
Showcasing Dubai’s music scene globally
The partnership will include music-led projects that highlight Dubai’s creative community and encourage cultural exchange and innovation. These initiatives are designed to give local artists greater visibility while reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to be a global hub for culture and creativity.
The agreement builds on Dubai Culture’s existing grants, residencies, and learning programmes, and aligns with Spotify’s support for emerging talent through initiatives such as RADAR Arabia and playlists including Fresh Finds Arabia.
