NMO highlights vision and goals of BRIDGE Summit

Sharjah 24 – WAM: Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office (NMO), reaffirmed the UAE's dedication to fostering international partnerships that evolve the media industry into a knowledge-based, innovation-driven landscape. This vision aligns with the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, focusing on shared human values and sustainable media development.

The BRIDGE Summit: A global media platform

Al Hamed introduced the BRIDGE Summit, a global initiative launched in Washington, D.C., which serves as a platform to promote media integration, address technological challenges, and strengthen international media cooperation. The Summit aims to build connections between the East and West, focusing on advanced technologies like AI and Big Data to shape a more impactful media future.

Honouring Sheikh Zayed’s legacy through media

During the panel discussion, Al Hamed emphasized that the BRIDGE Summit is rooted in the humanitarian vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who believed media should unite people, spread goodwill, and foster peace. This aligns with the UAE's broader media strategy of truthfulness, credibility, and mutual respect.

BRIDGE Summit’s role in media transformation

Al Hamed noted the need for stronger global media cooperation in response to technological shifts, especially AI, which is transforming the industry. The BRIDGE Summit aims to facilitate this cooperation and build a media framework based on credibility and innovation. It is not merely a one-time event but a year-round initiative.

Empowering future media professionals

A key aspect of the BRIDGE Summit is the creation of the BRIDGE Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the next generation of media professionals. The foundation’s mission aligns with the UAE’s commitment to nurturing responsible journalism and supporting impactful media projects worldwide.

The BRIDGE Summit as a dynamic space for innovation

The BRIDGE Summit will bring together media leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, offering a unique opportunity for innovation and collaboration. The summit will also feature a media production exhibition, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and fostering global partnerships. It will also support media entrepreneurship by providing a platform for startups to showcase their solutions.

Discussions on the evolution of media

The Ramadan gathering included insightful panel discussions on the evolution of media. Key topics included the shift from traditional newsrooms to algorithm-driven media and the role of media in shaping the future, with contributions from leading industry figures like Rani R. Raad, CEO of IMI, and social media influencer Aina Bawa.