ABU DHABI (WAM)
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, inaugurated the third edition of the Global Media Congress.
Organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the event is taking place at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi until 28th November.
The opening ceremony featured the UAE national anthem and an interactive presentation on the evolution of the media sector in the UAE. Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office, delivered the keynote address, followed by a panel discussion with media ministers from across the globe.
During the event, His Highness Sheikh Theyab toured the exhibition accompanying the congress, where he explored inspiring media experiences presented by national, Gulf, and international platforms. The latest advancements in media production, including the integration of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence in written, audio, and visual content, were showcased.
Sheikh Theyab also visited the UAE Media Pavilion, which included the National Media Office, the UAE Media Council, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM). He received a detailed briefing on the UAE's participation in the congress, which aims to share the nation's media achievements, establish new partnerships, and convey its cultural, developmental, and humanitarian message to global audiences in multiple languages. The pavilion also highlighted innovative approaches to managing media operations and producing credible, impactful content to reach diverse audiences worldwide.
Sheikh Theyab praised the progress and achievements of the UAE media sector, recognising its significant role in reinforcing the nation's global leadership across various fields.
H.H. stated, "Under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the nation has established itself as a global hub for innovative and inclusive media content production. The UAE has become a platform for constructive media dialogue that reinforces national identity and values, rooted in the principles and traditions of the nation."
He added, "The UAE believes in the influential role of media in shaping the future and promoting noble values within societies. We are confident that the Global Media Congress will foster meaningful discussions and launch initiatives that promote responsibility and sustainable communication within the media sector, positively contributing to its future development and sustainability."
Sheikh Theyab further emphasised that the third edition of the GMC reflects the UAE's vision of supporting innovation and cultural understanding while building bridges of cooperation for a sustainable and prosperous future. He highlighted the pivotal role of the media sector in raising awareness, supporting national aspirations, and driving sustainable development.
Abdulla Al Hamed, in turn, reiterated the UAE's forward-looking approach to media, viewing it as a strategic partner in driving sustainable development. He noted that the country is committed to creating a dynamic and innovative media environment, supported by cutting-edge digital infrastructure and a culture that fosters creativity and nurtures talent through specialised training programmes.
Al Hamed emphasised that the GMC reflects the UAE's dedication to fostering international collaboration to advance the media industry.
The event serves as a leading platform to build meaningful partnerships, unlock new business opportunities, and address the profound changes reshaping the media landscape. It also offers actionable solutions to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving global media ecosystem shaped by emerging technologies, platforms, and communication channels.
He further pointed out that the congress reinforces the UAE's position as a global hub for anticipating the future of key industries, including media. It has established itself as a premier international forum, driving growth and innovation by spotlighting untapped opportunities and paving the way for transformative solutions and new ventures.
In closing, Al Hamed stressed that media is a constantly evolving sector with significant investment potential. Its growing role as a vital economic driver makes the congress an essential platform for exchanging ideas about the future of media, particularly in a fast-changing world defined by unprecedented technological advancements.
The opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Ramzan bin Abdullah Al-Noaimi Bahrain's Minister of Information; Sheikh Hamad bin Thamer Al-Thani, Chairman of Qatar Media Corporation; Sheikh Mubarak Fahad Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Director-General of the GCC Joint Programme Production Institution; Dr. Nasser Muhaisen, Undersecretary of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Information; Dr. Zaid Nawaysah, Secretary General of the Jordan's Ministry of Government Communication.
It was also attended by Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice; Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President; Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the UAE President; Awaidha Murshed Al Marar, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Energy; Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development; Abdulhamid Mohammed Saeed, Chairman of the Awqaf and Minors Affairs Authority, several heads and officials from Gulf, Arab, and international news agencies, as well as media sector leaders, experts, and officials from around the world.