Abu dhabi: The BRIDGE Summit is set to begin tomorrow in the UAE capital, focusing on enhancing innovation and developing new tools that advance content creation. The event is one of the initiatives of BRIDGE Alliance, an international organisation aimed at driving greater inclusivity, diversity, and impact across the media, content, and entertainment sectors.
According to Emirates News Agency, BRIDGE Alliance, headquartered in the UAE, serves as a first-of-its-kind global body. It unites an influential board comprising former heads of state, global leaders, policymakers, and CEOs from sectors such as media, communication, technology, finance, and creativity. Their mission is to shape a collaborative and future-ready content ecosystem. The organisation is committed to delivering positive global impact by building a more interconnected, resilient, and ethically grounded framework for media, content, and entertainment industries.
The summit reflects the UAE's ongoing efforts to modernise its media sector, enhancing competitiveness and global appeal. This year, the UAE launched the Advertiser Permit for individuals publishing promotional content on social media platforms. This initiative is part of an integrated framework designed to create a flexible regulatory environment that adapts to the rapid evolution of the media industry. It aims to enhance content quality and attract investment and skilled professionals in content creation.
The Advertiser Permit aims to protect the rights of society and content creators by introducing clear mechanisms for regulating advertising activities. This move reinforces principles of transparency and professionalism, cementing the UAE's position as a leading hub for advertising content production. Additionally, the Cabinet issued a resolution regarding the Administrative Violations and Penalties Regulation related to Media Regulation, fostering a responsible media environment aligned with national legislation.
The UAE's media sector has been experiencing steady growth. In the first half of 2025, the UAE Media Council issued 2,562 media licences and permits, including digital media licences, filming permits, and licences for newspapers and magazines. This growth reflects the accelerating development of the media business environment.
In the publishing sector, the Council handled over 514,000 book titles and issued 35,000 distribution permits for books in the local market, while banning 32 titles inconsistent with national values or legislation. In the cinema sector, the Council approved 611 films for screening, with ticket sales exceeding 6 million, generating over AED309 million in revenue. Additionally, the Council authorised the distribution of 131 electronic games across the country.
The UAE has emerged as a prominent media centre globally, combining a flexible regulatory landscape and advanced digital infrastructure. Its contributions to constructive content creation and media empowerment have shaped it into a model of innovative and high-quality media governance.