In May, Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management and Flash Entertainment merged to form Ethara – a new powerhouse operation destined to have a massive impact on the region’s live events scene. Just a few months later, the company announced a landmark joint venture with the world’s biggest arena operator, Oak View Group (OVG), signalling OVG’s long-awaited expansion into the Middle East.
“The Middle East is home to some of the world’s fastest growing economies and live entertainment markets, so our new offering in the region is a natural step for OVG to take,” said Tim Leiweke, Chief Executive Officer of Oak View Group at the time of the announcement.
“The pace of change in the region, with major global events like the Dubai Expo and Qatar World Cup, makes it one of the most exciting places in the world to operate in right now. We are confident that working with our partner Ethara, OVG will emulate our success across North America and Europe in the Middle East.”
With the news making waves not just in the Middle East but all over the world, TPiMEA sat down with Ethara’s Haidar Shukry, who discussed the motivation behind the formation of Ethara as well as what the new joint venture with OVG means for the company.
