Watch: Fieldman Robinson on building Vertical Voyage in Dubai
At the heart of Dubai’s expanding creative and tech sectors lies Vertical Voyage FZC, a forward-thinking venture co-founded by Fieldman Robinson and his wife. Speaking at AIBC Eurasia 2025, Robinson shared his journey of establishing the company in the UAE and why Dubai proved to be the ideal launchpad for collaborating with global intellectual property (IP) holders across entertainment, gaming, and F&B industries.
From global exploration to strategic execution in Dubai
Vertical Voyage wasn’t born out of convenience, it was the result of strategic exploration. “We’d done some travelling around the world before we officially started operating here in Dubai, around 15 countries,” Robinson revealed. “Ultimately, Dubai ticked all the boxes for us.”
He attributed the decision to a combination of Dubai’s “can-do attitude,” its international cultural fabric, and a thriving business environment that fosters networking and meaningful connections. These elements, he said, created a fertile ground for Vertical Voyage to help global IP holders expand into the MENA region and beyond.
Bridging global brands with local experiences
Vertical Voyage’s core competency lies in adapting international IPs from film, television, and gaming to local and regional markets. Robinson’s prior affiliations with major film studios such as Sony Pictures and Lionsgate offered a robust foundation for these partnerships. “Most of these companies… are interested in growing and expanding in the MENA region,” he said, adding that the company’s on-the-ground presence is a distinct competitive advantage.
Yet, Robinson was clear on one point: success hinges on cultural integration. “You don’t want to have a brand just come in and say, right, we are doing it this way. That’s it. We want to help them integrate into products and developments going on here, especially in gaming, which is our main area.”
Dubai as a launchpad for broader market access
In discussing Dubai’s role as a global hub, Robinson underlined its strategic connectivity. “It’s good access to travel to Europe, other parts of Asia and Africa, especially with those emerging, growing markets.” This geographical edge has allowed Vertical Voyage to tap into wider ecosystems while remaining anchored in the UAE.
Advice for businesses eyeing Dubai
For enterprises contemplating expansion into the UAE, Robinson had this to offer: “Be open to the different cultures and the nuances,” he said. From Ramadan business hours to unique negotiation styles, understanding local business etiquette is critical.
Moreover, adaptability is non-negotiable. “You don’t have to do things the same way as you’ve been taught in another country,” he stated. “Step up, try and do something different, and be sure to network.”
Indeed, networking has opened unexpected doors for Vertical Voyage, from gaming to finance to location-based entertainment. “Other opportunities present themselves that you may not necessarily have thought would’ve been there.”
Building the ecosystem from within
Robinson highlighted a strategic shift for Vertical Voyage in late 2024, a commitment to becoming embedded within the local ecosystem. “Maybe we can work with other companies here, bring that knowledge and then foster that into the ecosystem as it develops.” He stressed that the company’s ambition is not merely to operate in Dubai but to actively contribute to its growth in areas such as Web3, NFTs, and gaming innovation.
AIBC and the power of serendipity
As a regular attendee of innovation-focused events such as AIBC, Robinson emphasised their role in sparking creativity and collaboration. “Being around people who are doing interesting things… you meet people and get a spark of imagination.”
With over 400 business events annually and major expansions like Expo City and Al Maktoum Airport underway, Dubai is quickly cementing itself as a global destination for ambitious ventures.
A place to build something special
Fieldman Robinson’s insights offer a compelling case for Dubai as more than a business destination, it’s a canvas for building something truly special. For those willing to embrace change, cultural nuance, and the spirit of collaboration, the city offers unparalleled opportunity.
“In Dubai, you can shape your role. Be open. Be bold. And enjoy the opportunities, there are many,” he concluded.
Ready to connect with innovators and industry leaders? Join us at the next SiGMA Eurasia Summit in Dubai, where global opportunities take centre stage. Register now and be part of the future.
