Arab Media Summit 2025 To Gather Influential Leaders For Key Discussions On Media's Role

The Arab Media Summit 2025 is set to commence on 26 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This event, organised by the Dubai Press Club, will run until 28 May. It will gather senior government officials, media executives, thought leaders, and influential content creators from the Arab region and beyond. The summit is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and guided by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

On the third day of the summit, H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum will deliver a keynote address at the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit. Her speech will focus on 'Media’s Role in the Age of Algorithms'. This theme highlights how media can adapt to technological advancements and remain relevant in today's digital age.

This year's summit boasts an impressive lineup of notable figures. Among them are Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, His Eminence Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb; Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam; and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani. Their participation underscores the summit's significance in fostering dialogue on pressing regional issues.

A key panel discussion will feature Arab Ministers of Information, including Abdul Rahman Al-Mutairi from Kuwait and Dr. Ramzan Al Noaimi from Bahrain. They will explore public media's future and strategies for collaboration with private media sectors to create a unified Arab media narrative.

Dr. Ghassan Salameh, Lebanon's Minister of Culture, will provide insights into regional stability prospects and pathways to achieving it. He will discuss how media can support this shared vision for stability across the region.

The summit also includes a special session with renowned media personality Piers Morgan, adding an international perspective to the discussions.

Role of Social Media

Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Diplomatic Advisor to the UAE President, will offer insights into social media's role in shaping public communication and supporting strategic priorities. His session will delve into how emerging digital platforms influence public discourse.

Mona Ghanem Al Marri emphasised that the summit occurs amidst rapid geopolitical, economic, and technological changes. "The event serves as a valuable platform to examine these changes," she stated, highlighting its role in ensuring well-informed public discourse.

Fostering Collaboration

Al Marri noted that the summit fosters collaboration between media and vital sectors shaping everyday life in the Arab world. The presence of senior officials reflects growing confidence in Dubai's position as a driving force for media development in the region.

"The summit plays a pivotal role in inspiring fresh thinking," she added, stressing its importance in launching initiatives that can significantly influence Arab media's future.

Flagship Initiatives

The Arab Media Summit features several flagship initiatives such as the Arab Media Forum and the Arab Youth Media Forum. Other highlights include Ibda’a- the Arab Youth Media Award and the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit and Award.

The event underscores a collective effort to address complex challenges facing today's media landscape amid rapid technological transformation.

With inputs from WAM