Arab Format Lab, a content developer, producer and distributor with offices in Dubai, Cairo and Jeddah, has partnered with DISCOP Dubai to unveil the  Arab Format Accelerator, a matchmaking and pitching programme facilitating the commerce of TV adaptation rights into the Middle East. DISCOP Dubai is a three-day event running from February 25-27 at the Intercontinental Hotel, bringing together stakeholders in the TV/Web content business.

Set to be a permanent fixture of DISCOP Dubai, Arab Format Accelerator will run parallel to the three-day entertainment content market. International adaptation right holders and local producers will be invited to “elevator pitch” their scripted and unscripted TV shows in front of a live audience. The pitches will be directed to key production, commissioning and marketing executives seeking to adapt fresh ideas and innovative concepts for Middle Eastern television audiences. Meetings between right holders and interested parties will be organised in between pitching sessions.

Arab Format Accelerator will culminate with an awards ceremony, where the most relevant and innovative international and locally developed formats will be awarded in different categories.

Speaking about the initiative, Khulud Abu Homos, CEO, Arab Format Lab stated: “I’m honored to be appointed as the chairwoman of Arab Format Accelerator. Submission processes to pitch content with strong adaptation potential will begin on Monday, November 20.”