The National Media Authority has signed on as the National Partner of the Arab Media Summit 2026, scheduled for September under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Organised by the Dubai Press Club, this year’s edition promises to be the largest in the summit’s history, convening political leaders, media executives, content creators and influential voices from across the Arab world.
The partnership, announced August 13, 2026, builds on years of collaboration between the National Media Authority and the Dubai Press Club. Both organisations share a goal of cementing the UAE’s status as a regional and global hub for media innovation while reinforcing Dubai’s role in driving a competitive Arab media sector capable of producing positive regional impact.
A Strategic Platform for the Future of Media
His Excellency Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Authority, framed the summit as more than a professional gathering. “Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Arab Media Summit has evolved into a strategic platform that goes beyond professional dialogue,” he said. “It brings the media community together to anticipate the future of the sector and develop shared perspectives in response to rapid change, helping build a more influential and trusted Arab media sector that is equipped to navigate the technological transformation reshaping the global media landscape.”
Al Hamed emphasised that the partnership reflects the UAE’s longstanding approach of coordinating national expertise across sectors. He described a competitive media sector as one that “combines professionalism with innovation, turns knowledge into value and new technologies into opportunities, and delivers content with lasting impact.”
He added: “Media is at the heart of the UAE’s vision for the future. It is a key pillar of the nation’s soft power, a major driver of the creative economy and a powerful force for attracting investment, capital and talent. It also serves as an influential ambassador for the UAE, reinforcing its positive image and strengthening its cultural presence globally.”
Growing Confidence and Expanding Scope
Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, President of the Dubai Press Club, and Chairperson of the Arab Media Summit Organising Committee, welcomed the National Media Authority’s role. She noted its participation “represents a valuable addition to the Summit,” which brings together stakeholders through specialised forums examining the sector’s challenges and emerging opportunities.
“The participation of leading national institutions, including the National Media Authority, reflects strong confidence in the Arab Media Summit and recognition of its important role in advancing the region’s media sector,” Al Marri said. “It also embodies Dubai’s approach of bringing partners together to deliver major initiatives and events that contribute to progress and prosperity across sectors.”
She confirmed the upcoming edition will be the largest ever, with a growing network of partners committed to supporting initiatives that “advance Arab media, enhance its competitiveness and ability to respond to global developments, and encourage the creation of impactful, sustainable content.”
Two Decades of Influence
Maryam Al Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, noted the summit’s evolution over more than two decades. “The Arab Media Summit has grown beyond an annual event to become an influential platform that helps shape the future of Arab media,” she said. “The partnership with the National Media Authority strengthens our efforts to bring together media institutions, decision-makers and experts to chart a path for Arab media that responds effectively to global shifts and harnesses emerging opportunities.”
The 2026 programme includes a series of specialised events: the Arab Media Forum, Government Communication Forum, Arab Youth Media Forum, Arab Social Media Influencers Summit, Films Forum and Games Forum, alongside several international forums.
The summit will also continue recognising excellence through the Arab Media Award, the Ibda’a – Arab Youth Media Award, and the Arab Social Media Influencers Award.
Broader Implications for Arab Media
This partnership signals more than institutional alignment. It underscores a regional shift toward viewing media as a strategic asset for economic diversification, cultural diplomacy and soft power. By bringing together traditional broadcasters, digital creators and policy leaders, the Arab Media Summit aims to equip the sector for an era defined by artificial intelligence, shifting audience habits and platform consolidation.
For media professionals and content creators across the Arab world, the summit offers actionable insights into navigating these changes while maintaining editorial credibility and regional relevance. The expanded forum structure also provides targeted spaces for niche conversations, from gaming to government communications.
As the September event approaches, the partnership between the National Media Authority and Dubai Press Club sets the stage for a summit that may define the next chapter of Arab media—one built on collaboration, innovation and a shared vision for influence that extends far beyond the region.