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- Aramco Bets Big On AI; Media Merger in Gulf; Netflix Ups Warner Bid
Aramco Bets Big On AI; Media Merger in Gulf; Netflix Ups Warner Bid
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Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Happy Wednesday everyone!
From Davos to Hollywood, Gulf influence is becoming harder to ignore. Saudi Aramco says artificial intelligence will deliver up to $5 billion in value this year, highlighting how energy giants are using technology to boost efficiency even as they plan for a post-oil future. In global media, UAE-controlled All3Media and Banijay are exploring a merger, underscoring the growing role of Gulf capital in reshaping television production. Meanwhile, Netflix has shifted to an all-cash bid for Warner Bros., as it faces pressure from a Gulf-backed Paramount rival. Together, the moves point to a region extending its reach well beyond energy.
Aramco Forecasts Bigger AI-Driven Financial Gains In 2025, CEO Says at WEF 2026
What’s it About?
Saudi Aramco expects artificial intelligence and advanced technologies to deliver between $3bn and $5bn in realized value in 2025, exceeding earlier expectations, CEO Amin Nasser said at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The gains stem from lower drilling and maintenance costs, improved productivity and more efficient capital spending, following $6bn in total value generated across 2023 and 2024.
Why it Matters?
The forecast highlights how Gulf energy giants are using AI to strengthen their core oil and gas operations even as they invest in economic diversification. At Aramco, AI is improving reservoir mapping, reducing the number of wells needed per barrel, and optimizing maintenance and pipeline reliability, translating into lower operating costs and higher returns from existing assets.
What’s Next?
Aramco plans to work with hyperscalers to commercialize some of its AI tools for the wider energy industry and will update investors on technology gains when it reports full-year earnings next month. The company is also expanding innovation through its $7.5bn venture capital arm and partnerships with Saudi entities, including the Public Investment Fund-backed AI firm Humain.
Important read: There was an opinion piece published by WEF 2026 by Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs,Ministry of Cabinet Affairs of the United Arab Emirates on the topic “There are three pivotal choices governments should make that will shape the future of humanity”.
Markets
EGX 30 | 45,048.44 | 2.49% |
DFMGI | 6,343.53 | 0.434% |
ADX | 10,170.50 | 0.467% |
Tadawul | 10,917.04 | 0.04% |
UAE-Controlled All3Media And Banijay Explore Merger As Gulf Influence Grows In Global TV
What’s it About?
UAE-controlled All3Media and Amsterdam-listed Banijay are in early-stage talks over a potential merger, as pressure on TV production companies accelerates consolidation across the global media industry. The discussions, confirmed by Banijay after being reported by Reuters, would bring together two prolific content producers behind global hits ranging from Big Brother and MasterChef to The Traitors and Fleabag.
Why it Matters?
The talks highlight the rising influence of Gulf capital in shaping the next phase of global entertainment. All3Media is owned by RedBird IMI, backed by UAE investor IMI, controlled by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. As streaming squeezes budgets and raises costs, scale is becoming critical — and Gulf-backed players are emerging as pivotal partners in industry survival.
What’s Next?
If a deal proceeds, it could strengthen the combined group’s ability to absorb costs, expand its IP portfolio and tap growing demand for Arabic-language content across Mena. Analysts say longer-term impact will hinge on whether Middle East-based platforms increase commissioning and develop exportable IP, further cementing the Gulf’s role in global television production.
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Netflix Shifts To All-Cash Bid For Warner Bros. As Gulf SWF-led Paramount Bid Holds
What’s it About?
Netflix has amended its deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming business, agreeing to pay the full $27.75 per share in cash. The move replaces a prior cash-and-stock offer and comes as Paramount Skydance, with Gulf Sovereign Wealth Funds’ $24 billion support, pushes a rival $30-a-share cash bid for all of Warner Bros., intensifying one of Hollywood’s biggest takeover battles.
Why it Matters?
The revised terms neutralize criticism that Netflix’s offer was weakened by its declining share price and sharpen the contrast with Paramount’s bid. A Netflix-Warner tie-up would reshape the global media landscape, combining two streaming giants with about 450 million subscribers and a vast content library, while raising concerns among regulators, unions and theater owners.
What’s Next?
Warner Bros. plans a special shareholder meeting, with a vote expected by April. Paramount may face pressure to raise its offer, potentially above $32 a share, to sway the board. Netflix has secured $42.2bn in bridge financing and is engaging regulators in Europe, while investors await further signals when Netflix reports quarterly earnings.
🦄 World of Startups
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🗓️ Plan Your Events (Jan-Feb 2026)
UAE
12-15 January: Dubai International Project Management Forum, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.
13-15 January: World Future Energy Summit, Adnec Center, Abu Dhabi.
21-24 January: Acres Real Estate Exhibition, Expo Center, Sharjah.
31 January-February 1: Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (Media Partners)
3-5 February: The World Governments Summit, Dubai.
9-12 February: World Health Expo (WHX), Dubai.
11-12 February: STEP Dubai Conference, Dubai Internet City. (Media Partners)
Saudi Arabia
28-30 January: Jeddah International Travel and Tourism Exhibition (JTTX), Jeddah.
2-4 February: Saudi Media Forum, Riyadh.
2-4 February: Women Leaders Summit and Awards KSA, Riyadh.
8-12 February: World Defense Show, Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, Riyadh.
Qatar
1-4 February: Web Summit Qatar, Doha. (Media Partners)
2-5 February: 21st International Conference & Exhibition on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG2026)
