Universal Music signs UAE deal

Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG), the world's leading global music publishing corporation, has signed a deal with Fairwood/BKP Music (Arabia), to act as a sub-publisher and licensing representative in the UAE and the neighbouring region (including the Middle East and North Africa).

The deal makes UMPG the first major global music publishing company to enter the UAE. It will encourage the use of UMPG's catalogue in local advertising campaigns, film and television uses, and other revenue generating uses.

"UMPG is aggressive about the licensing of our repertoire in new and emerging markets. Through this deal with Fairwood/BKP we will generate new revenue opportunities for our writers and artists in one of the most economically exciting regions in the world today," said David Renzer, UMPG chairman and CEO.

"I am excited about the possibilities of this deal with Fairwood/BKP," said Andrew Jenkins, UMPG executive vice-president of international. "We will be working with a like-minded firm to develop a new market for our own songwriters in the region and over time to provide opportunities for the best local writers in the rest of the world."

Hussain "Spek" Yoosuf, managing director, Fairwood/BKP Music, said: "The conclusion of this deal provides new possibilities for Fairwood/BKP and UMPG to ignite a dynamic business with our respective partners and clients in the region. We are delighted to be able to work with UMPG to create these new possibilities and build on what we've already worked to establish in this part of the world."