Reservoir Media, working with PopArabia, is strengthening its presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The companies announced two major acquisitions: Iraqi music house HFM Production and the catalog of Kuwaiti pop star Essa Almarzoug. Both moves show a clear push to bring Arabic music to global audiences.
HFM Production’s Legacy and Reach
HFM Production, founded in 2011 by Iraqi composer Humam Hassan, has become a key player in Iraq’s music scene. The company has produced more than 500 recordings and videos, featuring artists like Ahmed Al Maslawi, Zaid Al Rashed, Ahmed Fadel, and Salma Rachid. Its YouTube channel has over 3.1 million subscribers and nearly 1.4 billion views. Reservoir and PopArabia’s deal includes HFM’s existing catalog and several upcoming releases planned for the next year.
The second acquisition focuses on Essa Almarzoug, one of Kuwait’s most popular singer-songwriters. He rose to fame in 2013 on Star Academy 9. Since then, he has blended Khaleeji melodies with modern Arabic pop, creating hits like Qanabel, Thamen Ageba, and Akher Hebah. His music has earned more than 619 million YouTube views. Almarzoug said he is eager to partner with Reservoir and PopArabia to share Khaleeji pop with the world.
Regional Platform for Arabic Music
These acquisitions are part of a broader strategy. Reservoir and PopArabia have also acquired catalogs from Egyptian star Omar Kamal, Egyptian label 100COPIES, and Saudi hip-hop label Mashrex. Reservoir CEO Golnar Khosrowshahi has stated her goal is to make the company the largest holder of Arabic music copyrights. PopArabia’s VP Wissam Khodur added that these acquisitions deepen their roots in MENA while expanding Arabic music’s reach beyond the region.
The deals also reflect a wider trend in the global music industry. Streaming platforms have made regional genres more accessible than ever, and Arabic music is gaining traction with international listeners. By investing in established catalogs and rising stars, Reservoir and PopArabia are positioning themselves at the center of this growth. Their strategy not only preserves cultural heritage but also creates new opportunities for Arabic artists to reach fans worldwide.
In short, Reservoir Media and PopArabia are investing heavily in Arabic music. By acquiring influential catalogs and supporting regional talent, they are preserving tradition while pushing Arabic music toward global recognition.
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