In a move that’s set to elevate the voice of Arab content creators, the Dubai Press Club (DPC) has officially unveiled the Arab Podcast Award, the first recognition of its kind in the region. The announcement, which took place at the fourth edition of Dubai PodFest, comes at a time when the podcasting industry is flourishing across the UAE and beyond.
The launch couldn’t have been more fitting. Held on International Podcast Day and under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the region’s largest gathering of podcasters brought together over 100 creators, industry experts, and global players. It was a celebration of a platform that has grown into a movement that promotes culture, sparks dialogue, and highlights the art of storytelling in the Arab world.
Podcasting in the UAE has grown at an impressive pace, with creators tapping into everything from politics and technology to lifestyle and culture. There’s something intimate about podcasts that resonates with people, helping them tune into conversations that offer new perspectives, challenge norms, and celebrate diverse voices.
Behind every episode is a creator pouring hours of effort into research, production, editing, and perfecting content, all with one goal in mind—sharing a meaningful message. Considering all of this effort, it’s a recognition well-deserved.
Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, and President of the Dubai Press Club, echoed this sentiment during the event. “We are pleased to launch the Arab Podcast Award, which will be part of the Arab Media Award. This initiative aims to recognise and honour creators of innovative audio content in the Arab region while supporting the growth of this sector and enhancing its positive impact on society.”
Al Marri highlighted that the award builds on the momentum created by Dubai PodFest, which, over the past four years, has become a key player in shaping the podcasting scene. The festival has been a meeting ground for podcasters, industry experts, and organizations that are helping drive the industry forward. By launching a dedicated award, the goal is to recognize the region’s standout voices and help the industry keep pace with the rapid changes in media. “We want to bring together the finest in audio content and push the boundaries even further,” she emphasized.
With the global digital content industry growing at lightning speed, this award positions Dubai—and the region—right at the heart of that growth. The Arab Podcast Award will now be part of the prestigious Arab Media Award, which already celebrates the best in broadcasting, digital, and print media.
As for what’s next? The Dubai Press Club confirmed that we’ll have to wait a little longer for details on the award categories, criteria, and application process, but the excitement is already building. Winners of the Arab Podcast Award will be celebrated next May at the Arab Media Award ceremony—a moment that will mark a new chapter for Arab podcasters and give them the recognition they truly deserve.
