Influence Media Partners is expanding its music catalogue strategy into the Middle East and North Africa through a new partnership with IPNation, a company founded by Anghami co-founder Eddy Maroun and investment veteran Jose Maria Dot. The venture will target Arabic music catalogues and broader entertainment intellectual property, with an initial investment capacity of $100 million.
IPNation said it is currently evaluating a pipeline of potential acquisitions, though no deals have been finalised. The company views Arabic music catalogues and artist name, image and likeness (NIL) rights as undervalued assets with significant long-term growth potential.
“The Middle East represents one of the most exciting opportunities for long-term growth,” said Ram Kolluri of Influence Media Partners. Jose Maria Dot added, “Arabic music and entertainment IP represent one of the most undervalued cultural asset classes globally today.”
Influence Media Partners, whose portfolio includes works by Enrique Iglesias, Future and Blake Shelton, is backing the new entity as part of a broader diversification of catalogue investments beyond established Western repertoire.
The launch comes as efforts to modernise licensing frameworks and royalty collection systems in the MENA region continue to advance. Improved royalty infrastructure is expected to enhance the value of local music catalogues, making the timing of the fund particularly relevant.
