Ahmad Al Marzooqi
The Rise of Emirati Creators Shaping Global Conversations on Cinema & Culture
By Michelle Clark
The voice of Emirati creators is growing stronger every day, shaping how cinema and culture are experienced in the region and beyond. Among these rising voices is Ahmad Al Marzooqi, a passionate storyteller whose journey from personal struggle to cultural influence reflects the spirit of today’s UAE. With an unwavering love for Bollywood and a commitment to building bridges between communities, Ahmad has positioned himself as one of the creators redefining how digital platforms inspire and connect audiences.
Ahmad’s love for Bollywood began in childhood, but it was more than just entertainment, it was a lifeline. He recalls facing years of bullying and struggling with confidence until one transformative moment changed everything. A scene from Darr, where Shah Rukh Khan speaks to himself in the mirror, inspired him to practice the same.
Through that daily habit, he slowly built the confidence to become more social, independent, and determined to create his own path. What began as personal empowerment soon evolved into a responsibility to share the magic of cinema with others. Bollywood had transformed him, and he felt compelled to use storytelling to continue the cultural bond between the UAE and India, a bond that began through trade generations ago and today thrives through cinema, food, and culture.
As audiences increasingly turn to digital platforms, Ahmad believes creators connect so strongly because of their simplicity and honesty. He explains that people do not always have time for long and detailed reviews, they want quick takeaways that are relatable and easy to understand. Unlike traditional critics, creators focus on giving straightforward insights that help audiences decide if a film is worth watching, and that approach has made their voices more trusted and accessible.
As an Emirati storyteller, Ahmad sees his role as a bridge between cultures. Many in the GCC grew up with Bollywood, and shared traditions, food, and values make the connection stronger. Through his reviews, he introduces audiences to films they may not have considered, and he recalls how his review of the film Saiyaara reached over a thousand viewers, proving how Bollywood’s magic resonates across the Middle East.
Cinema, in his view, is more than entertainment; it is a universal language. From Turkish dramas to Korean films, people discover cultures and connect with others who share their interests, forming communities that might otherwise never meet. For Ahmad, cinema is a bridge that inspires curiosity and togetherness.
Being based in Dubai has given Ahmad a unique perspective and a supportive environment to grow as a creator. He believes the UAE provides unmatched support for content creators, encouraging them to focus on producing positive, educational, and entertaining material.
With leadership that emphasizes inclusivity, discipline, and positivity, along with new trade license rules that maintain professional standards, Ahmad credits Dubai with shaping his creative journey and vision.
For him, influence also comes with responsibility. He stresses the importance of being accurate and well researched because so many people trust the content creators share. Followers often rely on these insights for their decisions, and giving misleading information can have serious consequences. Ahmad believes truthfulness, responsibility, and humility are at the heart of meaningful content.
He is especially optimistic about the next generation of Emirati creatives who are beginning to make their mark. Watching young storytellers step into industries with content that resonates globally brings him great pride. In his field of Bollywood reviews and interviews, there are very few influencers, which presents enormous opportunities for growth. Ahmad sees it as his role to pave the way for others, to show that success is possible and to encourage aspiring creators to pursue their passions.
Looking to the future, Ahmad is excited by global cinema trends and the chance to be more directly involved in productions. He reflects proudly on having dubbed a South Indian film into the Emirati dialect that made it to cinemas, and hopes this achievement will inspire others. His vision is to create a legacy that encourages others to follow their dreams without fear of rejection. He wants people to look back at his journey and see a role model who proved that success could be achieved with humility and authenticity, grounded in gratitude and free of ego.
Ahmad Al Marzooqi’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can change lives, connect cultures, and build lasting legacies. As he continues to grow, his voice reflects the broader vision of the UAE, where culture, inclusivity, and innovation come together to inspire communities across the globe.
