1 Billion Followers Summit 2026 Kicks Off Tomorrow in Dubai

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Tomorrow marks the beginning of the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2026 in Dubai, a prominent event under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.

This four-day summit is recognized as the largest global event dedicated to the content creator economy. Hosted by the UAE Government Media Office, it will unfold at Emirates Towers, DIFC, and the Museum of the Future, centered on the theme “Content for Good.”

With an expected turnout of over 30,000 participants, including 15,000 global content creators and influencers, the event will feature more than 500 speakers who collectively reach a vast audience of 3.5 billion followers, along with the presence of 150 CEOs and experts from various fields.

The summit will offer an extensive agenda with over 580 sessions, comprising keynote speeches, workshops, roundtables, and discussions across three main tracks: Economy, Content, and Technology. These sessions are designed to investigate the evolution of digital media, investment trends, innovation, and responsible content production.

Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, emphasized that the summit signifies the UAE’s expanding influence as a global media epicenter. He remarked on how the event reshapes the role of digital media in fostering communities and generating social value through positive and significant content.

Central Themes of the Summit

This year's edition revolves around two significant themes:

1. Content for Good:

Partnering with MrBeast, the leading YouTuber worldwide, the summit launches the “1 Billion Acts of Kindness” initiative, backed by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) and the Varkey Foundation. During the event, ten global creators will be revealed as leaders for this campaign alongside MrBeast.

Additionally, a new Educators Award in collaboration with TikTok aims to encourage educational and entertaining content, with partnerships forged with platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, X, and Meta to drive impactful content initiatives.

2. AI in Content Creation:

In partnership with Google Gemini, the inaugural AI Film Award has been introduced, featuring a grand prize of $1 million. The contest received entries from over 30,000 participants across 116 countries, with five shortlisted films set to be showcased, and the winner will be announced on the second day of the summit.

Supporting Creators and Start-ups

Winners of the Creators Ventures Accelerator program will be disclosed on Day 3. Developed by Creators HQ in collaboration with 500 Global, the program aims to uplift content creators and creative enterprises, with winning initiatives potentially receiving investments and support totaling up to AED 50 million from 1,131 applicants worldwide.

Global Platforms and Prominent Speakers

The summit will host major global platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Meta, Snapchat, X, Disney+, and Twitch to discuss the future landscape of the creator economy. Discussion topics will range from AI tools, analytics, and intellectual property rights to managing misinformation and community engagement.

Highlighted Sessions Include:

• A Day 1 panel on the 1 Billion Acts of Kindness initiative featuring MrBeast, Sunny Varkey, Saeed Al Eter, and Jeffrey Housenbold.

• A conversation with comedian Max Amini, including a live performance on Day 2.

• A fireside chat with Lara Trump, media figure and former RNC Co-Chair.

• A special panel featuring Will Smith discussing his National Geographic series Pole to Pole.

• Insights on brand development from Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar.

• Rio Ferdinand sharing his journey from football star to digital entrepreneur.

• Simon Squibb discussing insights on impact and opportunity.

The 1 Billion Followers Summit 2026 seeks to empower creators, promote responsible content, and transform influence into tangible societal contributions.