A trillion-dollar industry in transformation
The opening speaker for the media programme highlighted the scale of the sector, noting that global media and entertainment generated over $2.8 trillion last year, with gaming alone rivaling film and television at nearly $200 billion. Streaming continues to reshape consumption, while nearly 70% of content creators are already using AI tools.
“The lines between industries have blurred,” she said. “Musicians are becoming developers; filmmakers are building immersive worlds. Where else would you want to be right now except here?”
AI, trust and the new media age
A keynote on AI explored its promise and risks. Speakers noted that while AI can scale creativity and efficiency, it also raises questions of integrity, authorship, and truth.
“We will explore how AI is reshaping journalism, how trust can be rebuilt, and how media, when empowered, becomes one of the strongest forces for peace,” one founding figure said. He echoed the belief that global media lacked a true home—“a space to connect, learn, challenge, and build.” He added: “Today, that home is here.”
Abu Dhabi steps forward as a global media hub
Across the day’s sessions, one message stood out: the UAE, particularly Abu Dhabi, is positioning itself as a future global centre for media. With tech leaders, AI pioneers and creative industries gathering under one roof, the summit aims to establish the emirate as a space where culture, investment, and innovation intersect.
“Bridge is more than a summit,” organisers said. “It is a commitment to elevate media, build trust, and give the global industry the home it never had.”
A future built together
As attendees filled the five stages, the venue buzzed with activity. Meetings were scheduled before doors opened, creators explored potential collaborations, and companies scouted ideas that could shape the next decade of storytelling.
If the opening ceremony promised anything, it is that Bridge Summit 2025 aims not only to host a global conversation but to build a lasting legacy. As the closing line of the opening film put it: The future is not a place we wait for; it is one we build.
Over three days, the summit will bring together leaders, decision-makers, and future-focused visionaries for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and new initiatives. It aims to transform conversations into real partnerships and investments that open access to global creative economy markets.
The summit also highlights emerging creative sectors such as gaming, AR/VR, and immersive technologies, alongside design, architecture, crafts, and cultural products. It brings together both traditional and modern media institutions, as well as universities, research centres, and innovation incubators.