In terms of content categories, video-on-demand services are projected to lead in 2025, accounting for close to 30% of total revenues. Although subscription services remain a key revenue driver, freemium models and in-app purchases are increasingly popular, notably in gaming and interactive entertainment. Subscriptions are projected to account for 45.92% of the market, while freemium and in-app purchases could exceed US$15.62 billion by 2031, driven by gaming-led revenue models. The UAE, on the other hand, is the fastest-growing market, benefiting from a favourable regulatory landscape and significant international investment. Strategic collaborations between regional broadcasters and global streaming services, paired with innovative monetisation models, are expected to drive growth and further reshape the Middle East’s media and entertainment landscape.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 19, 2026 12:37 UTC