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Starzplay reports record growth driven by AI

By Sunil Singh
3A5CD31 Multiracial family of three seated together on couch enjoying TV time in cozy living room adorned with plants and artwork Alamy via Reuters Connect
Starzplay headquarters at Abu Dhabi's Yas Creative Hub now houses more than 40 employees
  • Revenue passed $100m in 2024
  • More than doubled since ADQ stake
  • AI-powered content curation

Abu Dhabi-backed streaming platform Starzplay said it made record revenue last year, passing $100 million for the first time, supported by “artificial intelligence content discovery.”

In 2022, the Abu Dhabi-based ADQ and a unit of federal telecommunications company e& (formerly Etisalat) bought a majority stake in Starzplay for $420 million.

Since then revenue at the subscription video-on-demand service has risen two and half times to more than AED370 million ($100.7 million) in 2024, it said in a statement this week.

Starzplay headquarters at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Creative Hub now houses more than 40 employees and serves as a centre for AI-driven content curation, fan engagement and streaming innovation, the company said.

Company growth has contributed to Abu Dhabi’s creative economy by creating jobs in media, production and technology, aligning with the goals of the Abu Dhabi Film and TV Commission, Starzplay said.

Its investment in local content, including popular UAE series like Kaboos and Million Dollar Listing UAE has raised Abu Dhabi’s profile in content creation, filmmaking and entertainment.

Starzplay says it plans to increase content production, invest in live sports and enhance its digital offering with AI-driven experiences.

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