International Music Summit Dubai returns for highly anticipated second edition

The International Music Summit (IMS), the world’s leading platform for innovation and dialogue in electronic music, has officially announced the return of Beatport Presents IMS Dubai. The event is set to take place on 13–14 November 2025 at the iconic 25hours Hotel One Central, a creative hub situated in the heart of the city.

Building on the success of its debut edition, IMS Dubai 2025 aims to deepen conversations and foster new connections across the fast-growing MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region.

The two-day summit will offer a comprehensive agenda of expert-led panels, keynote speeches, and networking opportunities, alongside an evening music program featuring both international and regional talent. All sessions and events are accessible with a single badge.

Anchored by IMS’s four central pillars music, culture, finance and technology the summit is designed to explore not only the future of electronic music but also its expanding influence across creative and commercial sectors.

A Platform for Global and Regional Dialogue

Last year’s edition featured standout moments from industry leaders such as Maha ElNabawi (Managing Editor, Billboard Arabia), who opened the summit with a keynote on the global rise of Arabic music, Janet Ashak (Head of Music, MENA at YouTube) who emphasized the platform’s role in nurturing local talent, Maria May (Head of Electronic, Creative Artists Agency) who addressed the evolving landscape of artist representation, James Craven (President, Live Nation Middle East) who provided insights into navigating the music business across the region and artist and entrepreneur Wassim Bou Malham also underscored the critical need to support local creative ecosystems in MENA.

Complementing the conference programming, the 2024 music showcase drew wide acclaim, closing with performances by international icons Deep Dish, Pete Tong, and Echonomist.

Regional talents such as Cosmicat, Yas Meen Selectress, STRYV, and Saliah further underscored the summit’s dedication to spotlighting both global and homegrown talent.

A Venue That Embodies Vision and Creativity

This year’s venue will be 25hours Hotel One Central known for its immersive, storytelling-inspired design.

The hotel offers a dynamic and visually compelling environment, aligning perfectly with IMS’s mission to challenge norms and inspire cultural progress.

The move to this larger venue follows a sold-out inaugural edition and positions the summit at one of the city’s most vibrant intersections of music, art, and innovation.

A Gateway to the Future of Music in MENA

With the global music industry increasingly turning its attention to MENA, IMS Dubai is poised to play a crucial role in representing key territories such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, and beyond.

Through curated panels, delegate exchanges, and strategic conversations, IMS aims to catalyze growth and sustainable development across these emerging creative markets.

IMS Co-Founder Pete Tong commented on the summit’s growing impact:
“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.”

Looking Ahead

Following its 16-year legacy established in Ibiza, IMS continues to serve as a critical meeting ground for the global electronic music community.

IMS Dubai 2025 promises to expand on this legacy by shining a spotlight on new voices, addressing regional challenges, and forging long-lasting collaborations between local and international stakeholders.

Early bird badges are now available in limited quantities.

Further announcements regarding speakers, artist showcases, and evening programs are expected in the coming months.