The 1 Billion Followers Summit, the world’s largest gathering for the creator economy, will hold its fourth edition from January 9-11, 2026, in Dubai. Organized by the UAE Government Media Office under the theme “Content for Good,” the summit will feature a range of new global initiatives, including a $1 million prize for AI-generated films and a 50 million AED fund for creative ventures.
Event Overview and Mission
The summit’s mission is to reinforce the UAE’s position as a global hub for positive content creation and to accelerate global creative transformation. The event brings together the world’s top innovators, enhances cross-border partnerships, and supports startups and the content economy. His Excellency Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, affirmed that “the content economy is an economic power with limitless horizons. Today, the UAE is not only keeping pace with its developments but is also leading and charting new directions within that economy.”
What Participants Will Experience
The fourth edition will feature a significant expansion in interactive sessions and international partnerships. Key highlights include:
- $1 Million AI Film Prize: The world’s largest prize for AI-generated films, launched in collaboration with Google Gemini, to encourage the production of purposeful films using AI tools.
- AED 50 Million Creators Ventures Program: An initiative to fund innovative projects with global cultural and economic impact, including grants for projects with positive social impact and funding for companies led by content creators.
- Content Creators Accelerator Program: A program organized by Creators HQ and 500 Global to incubate individual creators and content companies.
- Creators Market: A new pavilion featuring around 100 SMEs and startups founded by content creators, providing a platform to showcase ideas, secure deals, and network.
Featured Speakers and Ambassadors
The summit will feature a roster of speakers with a combined following of over 3 billion. The newly announced ambassadors for the fourth edition include:
- Simon Squibb, serial entrepreneur and angel investor.
- Alexandra Mary Hirschi, the creator known as “Supercar Blondie”.
- Khalid Al Ameri, Emirati content creator focused on culture and social issues.
- Omar Farooq, Bahraini creator of the “Omar Tries” series.
- Ammar Kandil, co-founder of the Yes Theory movement.
Who Should Attend?
The summit is a must-attend event for all stakeholders in the digital and creator economies, including:
- Content creators and social media influencers.
- CEOs of leading social media platforms and digital media companies.
- Industry experts and entrepreneurs.
- Representatives from startups and major technology firms.
Event Details and How to Register
Date: January 9–11, 2026.
Location: Multiple venues across Dubai, including Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai International Financial Centre, and the Museum of the Future.
How to Register: You can buy tickets for the event on the official website here.
About the Organizer
The 1 Billion Followers Summit is organized by the UAE Government Media Office. It is a key component of the UAE’s strategy to foster a vibrant content creator community and explore how new media can drive positive societal change and sustainable economic growth.
