One of the region’s most influential creative events is back. MDLBEAST XP Music Futures 2025 will run from Thursday, 4 December to Saturday, 6 December at Riyadh’s JAX District. The three-day event brings together global industry professionals, regional talent, and music fans for a programme that blends business with nightlife.
For Dubai’s thriving music and events community, the conference is seen as an essential stop. It provides a stage for collaboration, networking, and cultural exchange, while also leading directly into MDLBEAST’s flagship festival, Soundstorm, later in December.
A platform shaping the music industry
XP Music Futures supports the MENA music ecosystem through four pillars: talent, scene, impact, and innovation.
Across three days, the event combines daytime sessions focused on professional growth with evening showcases celebrating Saudi Arabia’s underground music culture. This format has quickly become a defining feature, making XP a must-attend for both artists and professionals.
Day and Nite programmes
The experience is split into two distinct parts:
- Day (11am to 7pm): Attendees can join panel discussions, workshops, demo sessions, competitions, and networking events. These sessions provide industry insights and highlight creative opportunities in the region.
- Nite (8pm until late): As night falls, the spotlight shifts to live performances, artist showcases, jam sessions, and rap battles. This part of the programme reflects the growing underground and alternative music movements in Saudi Arabia.
Diversity at the heart of the programme
The organisers have built the conference on inclusivity and cultural exchange. Sessions are designed to bring different perspectives together, whether through panel discussions, storytelling, or interactive workshops. Topics often explore the role of technology in music, the rise of regional genres, and new opportunities for independent artists.
By creating a space that balances local identity with international influence, XP Music Futures has become a bridge between the Middle East and the global music community.
It resonates with UAE audiences
While Riyadh hosts the event, its impact extends across the GCC. Many Dubai-based artists, producers, and professionals travel each year to connect with the wider industry. The UAE has positioned itself as a hub for creative businesses, and XP offers a chance to build on that momentum through collaboration.
With Dubai’s own nightlife scene continuing to grow, XP Music Futures provides valuable insight for professionals shaping the region’s entertainment calendar. The mix of business and performance makes it especially relevant for those seeking both inspiration and opportunity.
Announcements to come
The confirmed dates and venue have already set the stage, but the list of speakers, panel topics, and performing artists is still under wraps. Previous editions have hosted international names alongside emerging regional talent, so the line-up is expected to be diverse and far-reaching.
Each year, XP Music Futures balances headline sessions with underground showcases, ensuring a broad appeal for audiences ranging from industry veterans to first-time attendees.
Planning a trip from Dubai
Reaching Riyadh is straightforward, with direct flights from Dubai taking less than two hours. The city’s expanding hospitality scene provides plenty of accommodation choices, from international hotels to boutique stays near the JAX District.
For UAE residents, the event is more than just a festival—it’s an opportunity to engage with the people shaping the future of music across the Middle East.
MDLBEAST XP Music Futures 2025 takes place from 4 to 6 December at JAX District in Riyadh. With its blend of professional development, live performances, and cultural dialogue, the event continues to define itself as the region’s most important music conference.
For Dubai’s creative community it offers the chance to connect, collaborate, and be part of a larger regional movement. Mark the dates on your calendar—this is where the future of music in the Middle East is being written.
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