Following the success of its debut, the Beatport International Music Summit (IMS) Dubai returns on November 13 and 14, 2025 at 25hours Hotel One Central.
The summit, a key event for the global and regional electronic music scene, has today announced its first round of speakers, main topics, and evening event partners.
Leading the summit will be IMS co-founder and legendary BBC Radio 1 broadcaster Pete Tong, alongside Saudi-born, UK-based DJ, producer and presenter Nooriyah.
Among the first announced speakers is global superstar HUGEL, who will headline as a keynote speaker.
Sharing the stage with him are techno icon Nicole Moudaber from Lebanon and the UK, the Jordanian-Egyptian-American duo Bedouin (Tamer Malki and Rami Abousab) and regional talents such as Egypt’s house maestro Misty and Lebanese artist Rolbac.
Industry voices will include Elie Saba, managing partner of ADDMIND, Sofia Ilyas, Chief Commercial Officer of The Beatport Group, Samer Jamal from Meta, and Jade, co-founder and resident DJ of Factory People.
The summit will also host the MENA premiere of the new film by Northern Irish duo Bicep, “TAKKUK”.
Themes and Content
IMS Dubai’s second edition will address some of the most pressing issues shaping the global and regional electronic music industry. Discussions will explore the potential of the Lebanese music market, the impact of artificial intelligence on music production, the challenges and opportunities of diaspora identity and grassroots investment alongside local festival development.
The summit will also examine the evolution of house music in the region, known as “habibification,” and the intersections between music and fashion, fostering conversations on the cultural and creative significance of contemporary electronic music.
A highlight of the summit will be the launch of the “MENA Women in Music” mentorship program, powered by Little Pink Book, aimed at supporting and promoting female talent in the region.
Additionally, the Finance & Technology Room 2 will focus on web3, gaming, investment, music production, and technological innovation, with speakers for this track to be announced in the coming weeks.
Throughout both days, a networking floor with live DJ sets curated by Mixmag UAE and Kiss FM will provide opportunities for delegates to connect.
Voices from the Summit
Pete Tong said:
“Last year’s debut of IMS Dubai showcased the energy and ambition of the SWANA music community. Electronic music here is on an exciting upward trajectory, both creatively and commercially. I’m thrilled to return with Nooriyah to celebrate emerging talent and create new opportunities for collaboration.”
Nooriyah added:
“The SWANA region is one of the most inspiring places for electronic music today. This summit provides a platform to celebrate incredible artists, amplify regional voices, and create meaningful connections that will shape the future of our culture.”
Evening Events and Citywide Takeover
As day turns to night, IMS Dubai will extend across the city’s top clubs and venues. Highlights include:
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Beatport Live at Monkey Bar (November 13)
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partner events at Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience, Surf Club, Be Beach, Reunion, and Helipad (November 12–16).
The program marks a true citywide takeover, cementing Dubai’s role as a global hub for electronic music culture.
Tickets
Early bird tickets are already sold out, and demand for this edition is higher than ever following last year’s sell-out. Discounted badges are available for full-time students, under-27s, and persons of determination.
For full details and updates, visit the official IMS Dubai website.
