DISCOP Dubai Wraps with Plans for Sharm El-Sheikh Market

DISCOP Dubai wrapped its second edition with 687 delegates in attendance and plans to move the Middle East-focused market to Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, in 2019.

Of the 687 delegates in attendance, there were 282 buyers, representing broadcasters, pay-TV operators and streaming platforms, primarily operating in the Middle East, Northern Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Highlights from the event included the Arab Format Accelerator initiative, which showcased 25 original scripted and unscripted shows ready to be adapted for Middle Eastern audiences, as well as a slew of conferences and panel discussions focusing on co-production opportunities. Another highlight was the opening keynote address from Dr. Riyadh Najm, the CEO of Saudi Media Measurement Company. There was also a presentation from Sang Uk Park of Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA).

DISCOP Dubai hosted India as this year’s Guest Country. More than 50 delegates representing 30-plus entertainment and media companies from India attended the market.

Additionally, it was revealed that DISCOP Sharm El-Sheikh will take place from February 26 to 28, 2019. Saudi Arabia will be honored as the official Guest Country.

Patrick Zuchowicki, the CEO of Basic Lead, said, “Egypt is the region’s most prolific entertainment content producer with a population of 100 million people and a very dynamic industry. Bringing our Middle East-focused market to Africa will also strengthen our presence on the continent at a time when we see more and more partnerships between these two parts of the world.”