Dubai launches 3rd Arab Podcast Program with focus on future of content creation
Three-week initiative blends practical training with expert-led sessions
DUBAI – The Dubai Press Club (DPC) has officially launched the third edition of the Arab Podcast Program, bringing together leading podcast platforms, experienced content creators and media professionals to equip aspiring Arab podcasters with industry-ready skills.
The three-week initiative, held at the DPC headquarters, is designed to strengthen the region's media landscape by nurturing talent and encouraging innovation in digital storytelling. Running until the end of July, the programme combines classroom learning with practical training to help participants develop professional podcast projects.
Organised in collaboration with prominent media organisations and podcasting experts, the programme offers intensive sessions covering every stage of podcast production. Participants will learn how to develop ideas, identify target audiences, produce high-quality audio and video content, publish podcasts and build effective marketing strategies.
This year's edition also reflects the increasing convergence of audio and video podcasting as the format continues to grow in popularity across the Arab world and international markets. The curriculum has been designed to help participants adapt to changing audience preferences while building sustainable and competitive podcast brands.
Maryam Al Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, said the Arab Podcast Program demonstrates the organisation's commitment to supporting the rapid evolution of the media sector through initiatives that reinforce Dubai's position as a leading centre for media innovation.
She said the global audio content landscape is changing quickly as demand rises for specialised content, creating valuable opportunities for Arab media to strengthen its presence with compelling and competitive productions. According to Al Mulla, the programme provides participants with the practical knowledge, industry expertise and hands-on experience needed to succeed in the growing podcasting sector.
Opening sessions
Al Mulla also acknowledged the contribution of partner organisations, industry experts and podcast creators, saying their collaboration reflects a shared commitment to investing in media talent and supporting Dubai's vision of becoming a global hub for media excellence and creativity.
Wedad Kahoor, Section Head of Media Talent Development at the Dubai Press Club, said participants will spend the coming weeks developing original podcast projects that will be evaluated by a panel of specialists. Three exceptional projects will receive awards, encouraging participants to transform creative ideas into successful podcast productions.
Panel discussions
The programme opened with a panel discussion titled 'How Podcasts Shape Contemporary Collective Awareness', featuring Safia Al Shehhi from vocast, Jamal Al Mulla from Arab Cast and Dr Zainab Al Taie from Rio & Zainab. Speakers explored the evolution of podcasts from a niche media format into influential knowledge platforms capable of enriching public discourse.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of responsible and ethical podcasting while examining how creators can embrace global digital trends without losing touch with Arab cultural identity.
Another opening-day session, 'Introduction to Podcasting: Designing the Concept and Building the Identity', was led by Charbel Issa, Customer Success Manager and Certified Trainer at Podeo. The session focused on helping participants transform podcast ideas into successful productions by defining a clear vision, selecting relevant topics, creating a distinctive brand identity, understanding content formats, and developing practical production and marketing strategies.