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IPNation launched an investment platform dedicated to Arabic music and entertainment intellectual property across the MENA region this month, securing backing from New York-based Influence Media Partners while setting a target size of $100 million. The vehicle will acquire artist brands, music masters, publishing rights, name image and likeness deals, and broader entertainment IP, according to EnterpriseAM. Its strategy also includes developing acquired assets into multi-format franchises spanning live events, film, gaming, merchandise, licensing and AI-powered derivatives. The founders positioned Arabic music as an under-monetised cultural asset class relative to other regional markets.
Abu Dhabi-based music streaming platform Anghami co-founder Eddy Maroun and José María Dot, the former chief investment officer at Multiply Group, established IPNation. Maroun highlighted the rising scarcity value of authentic IP in an era of AI-generated content, EnterpriseAM reported. The platform is evaluating opportunities in legacy catalogues, artist estates and culturally significant assets throughout the region. Influence Media Partners head of investments Ram Kolluri described the Middle East as one of the most exciting opportunities for long-term growth in premium music IP.
Separately, CineNow is establishing a wholly owned subsidiary in the UAE to serve as its operational headquarters and investor-relations base for a $150 million vehicle focused on Indian cinema intellectual property. The BVI-incorporated platform aims to produce more than 30 films across Hindi and regional languages while structuring a diversified portfolio spanning theatrical releases, digital streaming, satellite rights, music, dubbing and franchise licensing, the publication stated. It has already secured 60 percent of its target from family offices and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Long-term goals include up to $720 million in IP monetisation and a portfolio value exceeding $1 billion.
CineNow director Rohit Dalmia cited the UAE’s framework for IP registration, access to Gulf liquidity and alignment with global media ambitions as reasons for selecting the country. The company plans to expand its tokenisation model to Arabic content, real estate and aviation sectors in coming months, according to EnterpriseAM. The UAE subsidiary will coordinate regional partnerships and host investor-facing premieres in addition to standard promotional activities. India’s cinema industry generated $2.1 billion in revenue last year, providing a substantial base for the structured investment approach.
The twin initiatives reflect broader momentum in the UAE’s creative industries, where government bodies have introduced production incentives and free-zone benefits to draw film and media investment. A Chambers and Partners guide to media and entertainment in the UAE noted the country’s ambition to position itself as a global media hub through acquisitions of content libraries, platforms and intellectual property rights. Abu Dhabi and Dubai film commissions offer cash rebates of up to 35 percent on qualifying local spend, supporting both local and international productions. Such measures have helped attract strategic partners and investors seeking exposure to MENA’s expanding entertainment market.
EnterpriseAM observed that IP investment appears to be gaining traction in the UAE, linking the two platforms as complementary bets on distinct but high-potential content verticals. The publications noted that authentic intellectual property is gaining value amid rapid content proliferation, creating opportunities for structured vehicles that combine acquisition with active development. Both efforts align with the country’s push to build a diversified creative economy less reliant on traditional oil revenues.
