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What To Know
- With Disney+ joining as a strategic partner, the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2026 is set to play a key role in shaping the future of digital storytelling from the UAE to the world.
- The fourth edition of the summit will take place from January 9 to 11, 2026, across key locations in Dubai, including Emirates Towers, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), and the Museum of the Future, under the theme “Content for Good.
- Disney+ has officially joined the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2026 as a Strategic Partner, strengthening the UAE’s growing position as a global hub for digital media, content creation, and the creative economy.
Disney+ has officially joined the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2026 as a Strategic Partner, strengthening the UAE’s growing position as a global hub for digital media, content creation, and the creative economy.
The fourth edition of the summit will take place from January 9 to 11, 2026, across key locations in Dubai, including Emirates Towers, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), and the Museum of the Future, under the theme “Content for Good.”
Announced by the UAE Government Media Office, the partnership aims to raise global standards in digital content creation while helping creators access international expertise, expand their reach, and turn content into sustainable income streams.
Speaking on the collaboration, Tamim Fares, Director of Disney+ Middle East, said the summit provides a vital platform for storytellers from around the world.
“Content creation today is a fundamental pillar of the entertainment industry. At Disney+, we see first-hand the impact creators have in shaping how audiences discover and engage with stories,” Fares said. He added that the partnership reflects Disney+’s commitment to supporting culturally resonant content and nurturing the next generation of creative voices in the Middle East.
Alia AlHammadi, Vice Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office and Director of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, said Disney+ brings invaluable experience in creative production and talent development.
“Through this partnership, we aim to equip creators with the tools, knowledge, and exposure needed to produce meaningful content that meets global standards and resonates across markets,” she said.
The 2026 edition builds on the success of the previous summit, which attracted over 15,000 creators, 420 speakers, and 125 CEOs and industry experts, generating more than 1.5 billion digital interactions worldwide.
New initiatives announced for the upcoming summit include a $1 million AI-generated film award, launched in collaboration with Google, and an expanded Creators Ventures Accelerator, with up to AED 50 million allocated to support content startups and creator-led businesses.
For the first time, the summit will also introduce a dedicated pavilion for content creation companies, further strengthening collaboration between global firms and regional talent.
With Disney+ joining as a strategic partner, the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2026 is set to play a key role in shaping the future of digital storytelling from the UAE to the world.
