Virtual Set and Augmented Reality Creation: the Abu Dhabi Media project

The use of a complete virtual set combined with augmented reality addresses specific and strategic production requirements for television channels:

• Operational flexibility: A single physical space can host multiple distinct shows simply by modifying the contents of the 3D environment.
• Reduction of logistical costs: Material investments related to the construction, handling, storage, and renewal of physical sets are structurally decreased.
• Visual enhancement: The addition of fluid animations, instantaneous lighting modifications, and dynamic graphics adds depth to the televised narrative.

Based on these advantages, the Abu Dhabi Media group commissioned Dreamwall to model and graphically develop a new virtual environment dedicated to sports, following two successfully completed collaborations on their News and Talk Show programs.

Why Adapt the 3D Design of a Broadcast Environment?

Designing a space dedicated to sports news requires an environment capable of adapting to the various international competitions covered by the network.

While the initial baseline and aesthetic reference revolved around the Italian championship (Serie A), the approaching 2026 World Cup schedule redefined the specifications. The inherent agility of the virtual studio allowed our team to pivot quickly to meet this new editorial priority for Abu Dhabi Media.

To ensure consistency with the existing graphic guidelines while giving the program its own identity, we reused the architectural elements from the first augmented reality version of the Serie A set. These elements were then transposed and enriched within the new virtual space. The curved lines, material choices, and strict application of coherent lighting ensure visual continuity, thereby maintaining brand recognition among viewers.

Creation Pipeline: From Concept to Unreal Engine

The production of a broadcast virtual set relies on a proven workflow. The process began with the exchange of concepts and artistic intentions, followed by the validation of detailed 3D views.

The entire design was then centralized in Unreal Engine. This render engine is the industry standard for lighting management, texture application, and the generation of live photorealistic visual effects. For the past eight years, Dreamwall has relied on the combination of Unreal Engine and Reality Engine (the solution developed by Zero Density). Once the content is created in Unreal, it is imported into Reality Engine to integrate the on-air controls specific to the final control room.

One of the major technical challenges of the project was the treatment of light and surfaces. In a digital environment, light reflection calculations are the most complex technical parameter, yet they are crucial for the image's credibility. To bring the set to life, our team utilized the visual scripting system (Blueprint) and dynamic materials. This method allowed for the programming of lighting animations across the entire set.

How Does Augmented Reality Enhance Sports Analysis?

While the virtual set surrounds the presenters, augmented reality (AR) operates in the foreground to provide direct informative value.

An extensive library of augmented reality elements was modeled specifically for the program. These graphical tools are superimposed on the live feed to clarify the action

• Volumetric display of individual player statistics
• Tactical deployment and team lineups
• Additional modeling of sports infrastructure
• Presentation of various flags and crests
• Interactive maps

Furthermore, the background of the set reveals a fully 3D-modeled football stadium. These graphic elements, combined with camera crane movement tracking, generate a highly pronounced perception of depth.

Remote Deployment and Technical Validation

Adherence to the on-air schedule, which was particularly tight in anticipation of sporting events, dictated the technical deployment method. The entire set-up was managed remotely from our facilities in Belgium.

Using remote access software like TeamViewer, our technicians ensured real-time system configuration with the teams based in the Middle East. This seamless process, which required precise schedule adjustments to accommodate the time zone difference, relies on a key resource at this stage of operations:

The Real-Time Integrator: This pivotal role belongs to a technician equipped with strong creative sensibilities. As a programmer who understands the technical requirements of live broadcasting, they ensure that the assembly of the video signal, camera tracking, and render engine executes without any latency.

This complex project, executed within a short timeframe, illustrates the effectiveness of a controlled ecosystem that combines art direction with technical rigor.

What is the exact difference between a virtual set and augmented reality?

The virtual set entirely replaces the physical background (often a green screen or LED wall) with a 3D-generated space in which the presenter is immersed. Augmented reality, on the other hand, consists of overlaying 3D elements in the foreground, in front of the host and over the existing environment, to illustrate data or objects.

What is the complexity of integrating such a system for a TV channel?

The complexity lies in the communication between the physical hardware (cameras, lenses, tracking systems) and the computer servers. The slightest delay (latency) between the cameraman's movement in the studio and the reaction of the 3D environment breaks the illusion. This requires precise, millimeter-accurate calibration and highly optimized render engines.

Why is Unreal Engine essential in broadcast productions?

Originally designed for video games, Unreal Engine is capable of calculating complex textures, dynamic shadows, and photorealistic reflections in real-time (at 50 or 60 frames per second). This computing power eliminates traditional render times, making the software perfectly compatible with the constraints of a live broadcast.