The 24th Arab Media Summit began in Dubai on Tuesday bringing together the biggest lineup of officials, journalists and industry figures in the event's history as regional and global media grapple with sweeping geopolitical and technological change.
Held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the directives of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the summit runs until September 17 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
Mona Ghanem Al Marri, who chairs the summit's organising committee, said this year's programme draws an unprecedented range of participants as shifting economic and technological forces reshape the media landscape. Eight specialised forums will examine how Arab media can sharpen its competitiveness and open new avenues for collaboration.
Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum will deliver the keynote address. Senior UAE officials attending include Dr Anwar Gargash, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri and Noura Al Kaabi, alongside international figures such as GCC Secretary General Jasem Albudaiwi and White House advisor Massad Boulos. Information ministers from Bahrain, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt and Jordan are also taking part.
Global media leaders including Reuters News president Paul Bascobert, AFP global news director Phil Chetwynd and journalist Hala Gorani will join the discussions, alongside Arab and Gulf actors such as Nelly Karim, Ahmed Al Awady and Samira Ahmed.
Across three days, more than 175 sessions will bring together officials, editors, writers, analysts and content creators from 23 countries. The summit encompasses the Arab Media Forum, the newly added Government Communication Forum, the Arab Youth Media Forum, the Films Forum, the Games Forum, Dubai PodFest, the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit and the Euronews Forum.
Three award ceremonies will also be held, honouring achievements in youth media, journalism and social media influence.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
