UAE's BRIDGE Summit 2025 Opens With Global Leaders Discussing Media Collaboration And Innovation
The BRIDGE Summit 2025 commenced on Monday, setting a new standard for international collaboration in media and entertainment. Held in Abu Dhabi, the event gathered diplomats, ministers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of global media. The UAE showcased its role as a hub where innovation and talent converge, aiming to reshape the media landscape.
Abdulla bin Mohamed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of BRIDGE, opened the ceremony by highlighting the UAE's commitment to openness and communication. He stated that the country believes in building bridges rather than walls. Al Hamed emphasised that despite technological advances, human values remain central to real media.
Al Hamed outlined three pillars for future media: trustworthiness, innovation, and human-centred approaches. He stressed that media should prioritise truth and use technology responsibly. The goal is to create impactful media that leaves a positive mark on society rather than just generating noise.
Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Vice Chairman of BRIDGE, welcomed attendees by sharing impressive statistics from the BRIDGE App. He noted that even before the event began, there were significant interactions and networking activities. Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted that stories are essential for building trust and understanding among people.
Richard Attais, strategist and Chairman’s Strategic Advisor to BRIDGE Alliance, expressed excitement about creating a home for the global media community. He described BRIDGE as a platform where ideas can flourish and partnerships can form. Attais emphasised that this initiative is a gift from Abu Dhabi to the world.
The opening ceremony featured a film tracing humanity's communication evolution—from ancient gestures to modern digital platforms. It highlighted how technology has transformed communication but also warned of misinformation risks in today's digital age.
Building Bridges Through Stories
A young Emirati speaker urged attendees to remain anchored in truth amid rapid technological advancements. A dance performance symbolised reconnecting a fragmented world through bridge-building efforts like those at BRIDGE Summit.
The summit's debut edition runs from 8–10 December 2025 at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi. It aims to foster dialogue on ethical responsibilities within media while promoting cross-sector collaboration globally.
Al Hamed concluded by expressing confidence in emerging ideas and partnerships from the summit. He believes these will help establish a more collaborative future for media worldwide—bridging gaps between people across cultures.
With inputs from WAM
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