BRIDGE Summit Prepares Media And Content Leaders Globally

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

BRIDGE Summit 2025, the world’s largest gathering for media, content, and entertainment industries, is preparing for its main event in Abu Dhabi from December 8–10. As part of its global Roadshow, BRIDGE held a special event in Sharjah on the side of the 14th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF). This event brought together top leaders from media, arts, and content industries along with government officials and communication experts.

Sharjah Becomes a Platform for Media and Government Dialogue

The IGCF 2025 in Sharjah provided an important opportunity for government officials and communication professionals to meet and share ideas. The discussions focused on developing new communication tools to keep up with rapid global changes. Organizing BRIDGE as part of IGCF shows Sharjah’s important role as a hub for institutional dialogue and the future of government communication. Its expertise in creating innovative communication methods allows governments to interact better with their communities.

BRIDGE Vision Explained by Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi

Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Director-General of the UAE National Media Office and Vice Chairman of BRIDGE, said that IGCF is a natural starting point for BRIDGE in Sharjah. He explained that media today is not just newspapers or screens but a complete system that influences awareness, development, and international relations. He pointed out that there is no global platform connecting creators, investors, and distributors, and BRIDGE aims to fill this gap by creating a permanent system for global cooperation and innovation in media and content.

Government Communication in the Modern Era

Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted that government communication is more than official statements. It now extends to cinema, drama, entertainment, and public dialogue, reaching people in more effective ways. BRIDGE provides governments and decision-makers a chance to redefine their roles—from creating messages to influencing global policies. At BRIDGE, governments and content creators work together at one table to shape the future of media and communication.

BRIDGE Summit 2025: Beyond a Media Forum

He explained that BRIDGE Summit 2025 is not just another media event. It is a vision that positions media, content, and entertainment as pillars of development, culture, and civilisation. The UAE aims to create a platform that supports and connects media and content creators globally. The goal is to provide lasting opportunities, build value, and create partnerships that go beyond borders.

Panel Discussion: “Bridges, Not Walls”

A panel discussion titled “Bridges, Not Walls” featured renowned content creator Tareq Skaik. He explained the humanitarian role of content in the lives of individuals and communities. Skaik said that creating content is not just about attention or interaction but leaving a lasting mark that reflects culture and creativity. He believes that what unites people is stronger than what divides them, yet people often isolate themselves in virtual walls and closed groups.

Content as a Cultural Responsibility

Skaik shared his experience of writing an essay titled "You Were the Best Nation," reflecting on the cultural and creative heritage of his people. He emphasized that the region’s security, stability, and leadership should be more visible in the global digital space. Content should showcase the true identity of the nation and its civilisational contributions. He called on everyone—engineers, teachers, students, doctors, and journalists—to create content that promotes a positive image of their communities.

Media’s Role in Society: Insights by Dr. Moataz Abdel-Fattah

Another session, titled "Blueprints for a Media Order that Strengthens Society," was led by Dr. Moataz Abdel-Fattah, an academic and political analyst, and moderated by media personality Lenah Hassaballah. Dr. Abdel-Fattah explained that media plays a vital role in spreading values and building stronger societies. Governments not only share facts but also have a responsibility to promote values like economic initiative, conscious consumption, and scientific knowledge.

Successful Media Experiences and AI Impact

Dr. Abdel-Fattah highlighted successful examples, including the UAE’s regulation of media to strengthen its role. He stressed that media should work in coordination with schools, religious institutions, and political discourse to raise awareness. He also suggested organizing conferences to bring together influencers and content creators to produce responsible and meaningful content. He pointed out that artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly impact the future of media. The main challenge is to manage risks and create resilience rather than avoiding AI.

A Global Vision for Media and Content

The Sharjah event reinforced BRIDGE’s vision of creating a global platform that connects governments, media professionals, and content creators. It encourages collaboration, cultural exchange, and innovation in media and entertainment. By combining the expertise of governments and creative minds, BRIDGE aims to shape a media landscape that influences global societies positively while opening new opportunities for partnerships worldwide.

Building Bridges, Not Walls

The BRIDGE event in Sharjah highlighted the need for collaboration, creativity, and responsibility in media and communication. Through discussions, panels, and sessions, participants explored ways to make media a tool for development, culture, and societal cohesion. The initiative emphasizes that governments and content creators can work together to create a shared global future where communication bridges gaps instead of building walls.

Media Content Cooperation, Global Communication Event, Government Content Innovation