1301 Films Expands Global Footprint with Key Focus on Original Formats
UAE-based independent production house, 1301 Films continues to make waves in the industry, boasting a diverse portfolio that includes line producing for award-winning Yellow Bus feature film and high-profile campaigns for luxury brands such as Aston Martin and Hearts on Fire.
In a region where original content is increasingly capturing the attention of international audiences, 1301 Films is leading the charge in bringing MENA-born entertainment to the global stage.
Founded by accomplished producer Hiam Salibi, this production house pushes the boundaries of brand storytelling beyond mere advertising. From working with luxury titans like Aston Martin and Louis Vuitton to line producing OSN's award-winning original film "Yellow Bus," Salibi has built a reputation for bringing stories to life in ways that captivate global audiences and drive real business impact.
Now, under the dynamic leadership of an international powerhouse duo, 1301 Films is taking on an even bolder mission: creating original television and film formats for both established brands and startup ventures alike.
The Rise of Original Content in MENA: From Adaptation to Innovation
Over the years, the MENA entertainment industry has increasingly imported international formats, adapting them to resonate with the local audience, as seen in shows like 'Love is Blind,' 'The Real Housewives,' and 'Dubai Bling.'
However, the landscape is shifting. The decline of traditional TV viewership, the rise of social media, and the proliferation of digital platforms have reshaped content consumption habits. Additionally, initiatives such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 are fueling investments in local talent and infrastructure, further strengthening the region’s ability to produce and export original narratives. 1301 Films is at the forefront of this evolution by prioritizing original brand storytelling, developing content with a forward-thinking approach, whether it's tailored for local or international viewership.
Pioneering Original Formats to Export Content from MENA
As one of the few production houses leading this transformation, 1301 Films is proving that real industry progress comes from innovation. While recycling familiar formats may offer short-term commercial gains, the true future of MENA’s entertainment industry lies in crafting original narratives that resonate globally. “As a visionary production house, it’s our responsibility to not only evolve existing ideas but to inspire meaningful connections between audiences and brands," said Hiam, Founder and Executive Producer of 1301 Films. "We want to empower brands to showcase themselves beyond the bounds of conventional advertising.”
Strengthening Global Presence with Strategic Leadership
To support its international expansion, 1301 Films has appointed Leslie Lamb as its Chief Operating Officer. As a serial entrepreneur with extensive experience building and scaling global ventures, Leslie will play a key role in securing international partnerships and funding while positioning the company as a dominant force in entertainment.
A New Era of Brand Storytelling: Giving Businesses a Bold Alternative to Conventional Advertising
Beyond traditional entertainment, 1301 Films is transforming brand storytelling by giving businesses a bold alternative to conventional advertising. Rather than investing in standard ad campaigns, brands can partner with the production house to develop original shows that naturally weave their identity into engaging narratives — with the added potential of being pitched to major networks. This innovative, entertainment-first approach allows brands to connect with audiences in a more authentic, scalable and impactful way.
