Arab Media Summit 2026 opens in Dubai with global attendance, early media coverage and eight specialised forums exploring the future of media amid rapid geopolitical, economic and technological change
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Media Council, the latest edition of the Arab Media Summit kicks off Tuesday at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event will run until September 17 and marks the largest edition in the summit’s history.
The first hours witnessed a remarkably proactive start, four hours before the official opening. Media professionals and content creators from around the world began their tours early. They conducted initial coverage, interviews and live broadcasts, reflecting strong global interest and early engagement with the summit agenda.
This edition is of exceptional importance due to the scale and quality of international participation. It also comes at a time of rapid geopolitical, economic and technological change. These developments directly affect the media sector and help shape its future.
The summit will feature Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, as a keynote speaker. A number of senior officials from the UAE and around the world will also attend, including His Excellency Dr Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Advisor to His Highness the President of the UAE, and His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism.
This year’s summit features an intensive agenda spanning eight specialised forums. These include the Arab Media Forum; the Government Communication Forum – which is being held for the first time as part of the summit- the Arab Youth Media Forum, the Film Forum, the Electronic Games Forum, the Arab Social Media Pioneers Summit, and the Dubai Budapest Forum. The summit will also host the Euronews Forum, marking its first appearance outside the European continent.
Source: Emirates 24|7