About Shark Tank Dubai
In an exciting development for local television, Dubai Media Incorporated’s flagship channel, Dubai TV, has officially become the new home for the world-renowned reality show Shark Tank. The announcement, made by MEMS (the exclusive media representative for DMI within Choueiri Group), marks a significant step forward in localizing one of the globe’s most successful business reality programs for the UAE audience.
Shark Tank, originally premiering in 2009 as the U.S. adaptation of the Japanese series Dragons’ Den, has captivated viewers worldwide. The series features entrepreneurs presenting business ideas to a panel of five venture capitalists—known as “sharks”—who decide whether to invest in the ventures pitched. Over the years, Shark Tank has become a ratings powerhouse, winning multiple awards, including four consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Structured Reality Program (2014–2017) and a win for Outstanding Reality Program in 2012 and 2013.
Now, Shark Tank Dubai follows in the footsteps of its predecessors, bringing the acclaimed business format to the Middle East. The show offers a unique opportunity for aspiring UAE-based entrepreneurs to pitch their innovative ideas to a panel of local business titans—”sharks”—who hold the power to propel their ventures to the next level. It promises not only potential investment but also invaluable mentorship and strategic partnerships, giving these entrepreneurs access to vital resources to help realize their business ambitions.
Commenting on the launch of the new series, Mr. Abdulwahed Juma, CEO of Commercial Affairs and Partnerships at DMI, shared: “As part of our continued commitment to providing excellent programming and inspiring the next generation, Shark Tank Dubai delivers the ultimate mix of entertainment and entrepreneurial insights, perfectly aligned with Dubai’s forward-thinking and innovative spirit.”
The sharks featured in Shark Tank Dubai are prominent figures in the UAE's venture capital landscape, including Faisal Juma Belhoul, Founder and Chairman of Ithmar Capital Partners; Amira Sajwani, Founder and CEO of Prypco; Elie Khoury, CEO and Chairman of Vivium Holding; Noor Sweid, CEO of Global Ventures; and Yousef Hamad, Managing Partner at BECO Capital. Together, these business leaders bring vast experience and insight, adding a dynamic energy to the show as they consider which entrepreneurs’ ideas to back.
Jean Pierre Tannous, COO of MEMS, also shared his excitement for the debut season, stating, “As Dubai TV continues its mission to be a leading provider of meaningful and impactful entertainment in today’s digital age, we are thrilled about Shark Tank Dubai. The show not only boosts audience engagement but also reinforces Dubai and the UAE as global hubs for entrepreneurial vision.”
Shark Tank Dubai premiered on Dubai TV in mid-December 2023 and will continue airing through Q2 of 2024, offering viewers a front-row seat to the future of business innovation in the UAE. Stay tuned as the series unfolds, showcasing the exciting next chapter in Dubai’s entrepreneurial journey.