Soundstripe and PopArabia Host Songwriting Camps in Abu Dhabi
Written by Black Hot Fire Network Team on January 6, 2026
Soundstripe, a music licensing platform, has partnered with PopArabia to create original music reflecting genres and sounds from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The collaboration aims to expand Soundstripe’s catalogue to meet growing global demand for Arabic and MENA-originated music.
Music Creation Camps
The first camp took place in Abu Dhabi in October, bringing together artists from the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Iraq, Lebanon, and Sudan. Participants worked in pairs and small groups over several days, producing 23 new tracks. Creative prompts were used to encourage broad appeal while incorporating local cultural influences.
Artist Collaboration and Feedback
Assouad, of the duo ISSA & ASSOUAD, described the camp as a productive and collaborative experience, noting the exceptional talent and focus of the participants. The resulting tracks are intended for inclusion in Soundstripe’s catalogue.
Regional Music Market Growth
Hussain ‘Spek’ Yoosuf, founder and chief executive of PopArabia, stated that the project aligns with the company’s objectives and reflects the growth of the regional music sector. He noted the Middle East is a rapidly expanding music market with a vibrant regional sound resonating globally. PopArabia’s mission is to develop opportunities for artists in the UAE and the wider region.
Soundstripe’s Focus on Original Music
Josh Collum, Soundstripe’s vice-president of music, emphasized the company’s commitment to original, artist-created work. He highlighted the increasing importance of human-made music in a more connected world.
Company Backgrounds
Soundstripe, founded in Nashville in 2016, provides a subscription-based music licensing platform for creators, production companies, and advertisers worldwide. PopArabia, established in 2011 and based in Abu Dhabi, operates as a label, publisher, and licensing company representing international and regional music catalogues across the MENA region. The initiative has received support from Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority.
