The 1 Billion Followers Summit, the world’s largest gathering for the creator economy, has unveiled plans for its fourth edition, to be held from January 9 to 11, 2026. Organised by the UAE Government Media Office, the event will bring together top global creators, industry leaders, and innovators under the theme “Content for Good.”
This edition introduces a landmark initiative: the world’s largest prize for AI-generated films, valued at US$1 million, developed in partnership with Google Gemini. The award aims to promote purposeful storytelling using artificial intelligence, with the winning film and top 10 entries showcased during the summit.
Expanding Global Impact
The summit has grown exponentially since its launch in 2016, now attracting content creators with a combined following of over 3 billion people worldwide. Its agenda will feature discussions on AI, intellectual property, combating misinformation, monetisation strategies, and cross-border partnerships.
As part of its broader push to strengthen the global content economy, the summit also announced the Creators Ventures Programme, with AED 50 million allocated to support startups, accelerators, and projects with a positive social and cultural impact. A Content Creation Companies Pavilion will debut this year, hosting 100 SMEs and startups founded by creators transitioning into entrepreneurship.
High-Profile Ambassadors & Partners
Five new ambassadors will help drive the summit’s mission: Simon Squibb, Alexandra Mary Hirschi (Supercar Blondie), Khalid Al Ameri, Omar Farooq, and Ammar Kandil. Collectively, they represent diverse approaches to digital storytelling, from entrepreneurial mentorship to cross-cultural and humanitarian content.
The summit will also feature partnerships with SEE Holding, Emirates, MBC Group, Sony, and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, alongside participation from leading platforms including Google, Meta, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, and Snapchat.
Building on Momentum
The third edition, held in January 2025, attracted 15,000 creators, 420 speakers, and 125 CEOs, generating 1.5 billion digital interactions and exceeding 542 million views. With its expanded agenda, global partnerships, and groundbreaking initiatives, the 2026 edition aims to further cement the UAE’s role as a hub for positive, purposeful digital content.
–Input WAM
