iQIYI and UAE’s BRIDGE Alliance forge strategic partnership to build a media technology ecosystem

Business

iQIYI and UAE’s BRIDGE Alliance forge strategic partnership to build a media technology ecosystem

In a landmark move set to redefine global media collaboration, iQIYI, one of China’s leading online entertainment platforms, and the UAE’s BRIDGE Alliance have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership aimed at pioneering next-generation content innovation and building a robust media technology ecosystem across Asia and the Middle East.

The agreement was formalized during the BRIDGE Summit 2025 held in Abu Dhabi, where the MoU was signed by H.E. Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Vice Chairman of the BRIDGE Alliance, and Xianghua Yang, President of iQIYI’s Movie & Overseas Business Group.

Following the signing, both parties engaged in discussions outlining their joint roadmap to develop a structured framework for collaboration — marking a new chapter of cooperation between China’s digital entertainment powerhouse and the MENA region’s emerging media innovation hub.

Shared vision for media innovation

The strategic alliance is founded on a shared commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and international collaboration in the media and entertainment industries. The BRIDGE Alliance continues to position itself as a catalyst for global cooperation, while iQIYI brings deep expertise in content creation, technology R&D, and innovative business models that have transformed digital entertainment ecosystems across Asia.

Under the MoU, the partnership will focus on four key areas:

Joint IP development and operation
Co-production and global distribution of film and TV content
Virtual production and VR technology applications
Media technology research, development, and industry exchange

Statements from the leaders

Speaking at the event, H.E. Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi said,

“We welcome iQIYI as a valued partner of the BRIDGE Alliance. Their leadership in content innovation and advanced technology integration makes them a natural collaborator as we build a globally connected media ecosystem.”

Xianghua Yang emphasized iQIYI’s commitment to expanding its international footprint, stating, “This partnership represents a significant step in strengthening iQIYI’s ties with the MENA region. We are eager to co-create innovative entertainment experiences and contribute to the development of a dynamic regional media technology ecosystem.”

A new model for global collaboration

The partnership aims to establish a benchmark for full-cycle media collaboration — from research and development to real-world application. By leveraging technological innovation, co-production initiatives, and knowledge exchange, both entities seek to foster cross-cultural dialogue and drive the evolution of digital entertainment on a global scale.

The collaboration reflects a broader ambition to position the UAE as a regional hub for media technology and creative industries, while reinforcing China’s growing engagement with the MENA entertainment market.