What To Know
- He recalled a video about an autism education centre in Abu Dhabi that didn’t go viral but changed one woman’s approach to supporting her child — a ripple effect far more meaningful than millions of views.
- “Sometimes creators have millions of followers, but when they host an event or launch a product, no one shows up,” Al Ameri explained.
- He told the audience that a smaller, loyal community can be far more valuable than a massive but passive following.
Purpose Over Numbers
At the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2026 in Dubai, Emirati content creator Khalid Al Ameri delivered a powerful message: having millions of followers doesn’t always equal impact. He told the audience that a smaller, loyal community can be far more valuable than a massive but passive following.
“Sometimes creators have millions of followers, but when they host an event or launch a product, no one shows up,” Al Ameri explained. “You want people who engage, support, and trust you — not just scroll past.”
The Power of 1,000 True Fans
Al Ameri emphasized that 1,000 deeply engaged followers can outperform a million passive ones. These are the people who show up, interact, and invest their time and money in what you do. This approach reflects the Summit’s focus this year: impact, not virality.
“Anyone here could go viral,” he joked. “But what kind of virality do you want? One that entertains briefly, or one that leaves a mark?”
Impact Can’t Be Hacked
Algorithms can be manipulated, trends copied, and formats replicated — but impact is unique. Al Ameri shared a campaign he worked on with Noon, where families expecting food deliveries were instead reunited with loved ones flown in from abroad. The project took months of planning, but its emotional impact far outlasted any fleeting viral video.
Purpose as a Longevity Tool
Creators face constant pressure from shifting algorithms and fast-moving trends, leading to burnout. Al Ameri stressed that purpose sustains longevity. He recalled a video about an autism education centre in Abu Dhabi that didn’t go viral but changed one woman’s approach to supporting her child — a ripple effect far more meaningful than millions of views.
“That is greater than 100 million views — knowing that even if it’s just one person, your video changed the trajectory of their life,” he concluded.
