Arab Media Group (AMG) is a prominent entertainment conglomerate based in Dubai, operating as a subsidiary of Dubai Holding. Founded in 2005, AMG specializes in three core business lines: family entertainment, notably through Global Village, radio broadcasting via the Arabian Radio Network (ARN), comprising nine popular channels, and event management through Done Events.
Media assets
Radio: Arabian Radio Network (ARN): Tag 91.1, Dubai 92, Radio Shoma 93.4, Hit 96.7, Al Arabiya 99, Al Khaleejiya 100.9, City 101.6, Dubai Eye 103.8, Virgin Radio Dubai 104.4, Dubai Dragon
State Media Matrix Typology
Captured Public/State-Managed (CaPu)
Ownership and governance
AMG falls under the umbrella of Dubai Holding—a diversified investment arm majority-owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. After enduring the 2007–08 financial downturn, AMG divested its television assets to Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI) in late 2009. Radio, events, and entertainment remain under AMG’s control to this day.
Mohamed Sharaf has served as the CEO of Arab Media Group (AMG) since December 2018, leading one of the UAE’s most prominent media and entertainment conglomerates. With a background in economics and finance from Tufts University and The George Washington University, he previously held strategic roles at Meraas and Dubai Holding Entertainment.
Source of funding and budget
AMG does not publish official financial statements, hence its revenues are not known. According to experts consulted by Media and Journalism Research Center in May 2025, the company is financed mostly through ad revenues although state subsidies are also accounted for every year.
Editorial independence
Though no direct editorial constraints are imposed, analysts note that government influence permeates AMG’s leadership structure. Since Dubai Holding itself is state-owned, strategic control is maintained via top management appointments. No independent oversight or statutory guarantee of journalistic independence exists.
July 2025