Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, officially opened the Arab Media Summit 2025 in the presence of prominent regional and global leaders. Attended by approximately 8,000 professionals, the Summit serves as the region's foremost platform for media thought leadership, policy dialogue, and the shaping of future narratives.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed was joined by His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and President of the Muslim Council of Elders; Dr. Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister of Lebanon; H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee; H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; and senior media leaders, ministers, policymakers, and content creators from across the Arab region and the world.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed praised the meticulous organisation of the three-day Summit and its various events. His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb delivered a keynote address expressing admiration for the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which has guided this pivotal summit as a vital platform for intellectual and media discourse across the Arab and Islamic world.
His Eminence also highlighted the Summit's focus on the crucial role of Arab media in addressing ethical challenges in a rapidly evolving world. He expressed hope for a practical, collaborative Arab media strategy that reflects the realities of the Arab world and protects its youth from the risks of rapid technological advancement. The Grand Imam warned of harmful influences from digital platforms and the distortion of Islamic narratives in the West.
The ongoing crisis in the Middle East was addressed, with a call for Arab media to highlight the resilience of the Palestinian people and keep their cause alive globally. The Grand Imam also emphasized the need to confront Islamophobia and stressed the ethical responsibility surrounding technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam of Lebanon also delivered a keynote address, expressing appreciation to the UAE and Dubai for hosting the Summit. He highlighted the media's role in shaping public opinion and its potential to foster peace or fuel discord. He called for responsible media committed to truth and underscored the need for a new media discourse that confronts marginalisation and ignites hope.
Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, welcomed the Summit's guests and emphasized the importance of balanced media in fostering informed discourse. She highlighted the challenges posed by technological advancements and the responsibility of media to protect the truth and preserve Arab identity.
The Summit continues to serve as a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration among media professionals, policymakers, and leaders across the Arab region and the world.