Dubai is taking a decisive step to nurture its next generation of screen talent as the Dubai Films and Games Commission partners with the UK’s National Film and Television School and Prime Video to launch a new Talent Development Programme for emerging writers and producers.
Scheduled from 26 to 30 January 2026, the intensive week-long programme will bring together Dubai-based creatives to develop original scripted television projects. The initiative targets professionals at a critical career stage, guiding them through concept development, narrative structure and pitching for the global screen market.
Designed to balance creative craft with commercial insight, the programme will offer hands-on training, mentoring and project development. Participants will gain a practical understanding of the realities of scripted television, including audience strategy, marketing, packaging and international co-production models.
The programme will be led by NFTS Senior Tutor Matt Delargy, whose credits include Nowhere Boy and Ripper Street, alongside Adrian Banyard of Big Light Productions. Sessions will also feature Amazon MGM Studios executives and specialist tutors delivering masterclasses and workshops.
The initiative supports Dubai Films and Games Commission’s wider mandate under the Dubai Media Council to strengthen the emirate’s film and television ecosystem and position Dubai as a regional production hub.
The programme will conclude with an industry-standard pitching session before a panel of regional and international commissioners, followed by a discussion on the future of series production in the MENA region.
Applications from Dubai-based professionals are open until 12 January 2026, with eight two-person teams to be selected.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
