Abu Dhabi hosted the International Emmy Awards semi‑final judging on June 12. The event, organised by Pyramedia Group, brought together television professionals from the UAE, India, France, Egypt, Jordan and Syria to assess productions from around the world.
The semi‑final round is a key stage in the competition that determines which programmes advance toward the final nominations later this year. Abu Dhabi marks 15 consecutive years as the judging hub; Friday’s session marked the 15th straight year that the UAE capital serves as the venue for the International Emmy Awards semi‑final round.
Nashwa Al Ruwaini, CEO and Board Member of Pyramedia Group, highlighted the milestone, saying the city has become “an annual destination on the judging map.” “So proud of Pyramedia Group and the team for hosting the semi‑final judging round of the International Emmys in Abu Dhabi for the 15th year,” she said. Al Ruwaini added that the event has expanded Arab representation among Emmy jurors and boosted the region’s participation in one of television’s most prestigious awards.
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, which oversees the Emmys, expressed continued confidence in the Abu Dhabi venue.
Jurors from six nations evaluate global productions. The judging panel featured a mix of industry figures, including Bollywood actor Gulshan Grover, French producer Jean‑Charles Lévy and Emirati presenter Mahira Abdel Aziz. Each juror reviewed a slate of programmes that were originally aired outside the United States, as required by the International Emmy criteria.
“As an artist, it opens your mind,” Gulshan Grover said. “I would like to applaud the International Emmy Academy for truly such wonderful work and extraordinary performances.”
Jean‑Charles Lévy noted the value of discovering talent from diverse markets, saying the jury’s composition allowed him to meet filmmakers and actors he would not have otherwise encountered.
Organisers and participants praise the event’s impact. Pyramedia Group’s team reported that the semi‑final round not only highlighted high‑quality productions but also encouraged cross‑cultural collaboration among creators.
Mahira Abdel Aziz described the experience as “enriching” and emphasized the importance of sharing regional narratives on a global stage.
Industry observers noted that the continued presence of the International Emmy semi‑final in Abu Dhabi underscores the city’s growing reputation as a centre for media excellence. The event’s success is expected to inspire further investment in television projects across the Middle East.
Frequently asked questions
When did the International Emmy Awards semi‑final judging take place in Abu Dhabi?The semi‑final judging returned to Abu Dhabi on June 12, marking the 15th consecutive year the city hosted this stage of the International Emmy Awards.
Which countries were represented by jurors at the International Emmy semi‑final in Abu Dhabi?Jurors came from six nations: the United Arab Emirates, India, France, Egypt, Jordan and Syria, each evaluating global television productions.
Who organized the International Emmy Awards semi‑final judging in Abu Dhabi?The event was organised by Pyramedia Group, with its CEO Nashwa Al Ruwaini highlighting Abu Dhabi’s 15‑year streak as the judging hub.
How many years has Abu Dhabi hosted the International Emmy semi‑final judging?Abu Dhabi has hosted the International Emmy Awards semi‑final judging for 15 consecutive years, making it an annual destination on the judging map.
Which notable industry figures served as jurors at the Abu Dhabi semi‑final?The panel included Bollywood actor Gulshan Grover, French producer Jean‑Charles Lévy and Emirati presenter Mahira Abdel Aziz, among other television professionals.
